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Let me share my favorite breakfast treat that changed how I think about homemade donuts. These Air Fryer Donuts started as an experiment when I was craving something sweet but didn't want the mess of deep frying. Now they're a weekend tradition in my house. They're fluffy tender and so much easier than traditional donuts.
Why These Are Amazing
I love how these donuts give you all that satisfying sweetness without leaving your kitchen smelling like a deep fryer. The air fryer works its magic creating that perfect golden outside while keeping the inside soft and tender. Plus you can customize them any way you like my family has so much fun coming up with new toppings.
Everything You Need
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our fluffy donuts.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough for sweetness.
- Baking Powder: For that perfect rise.
- Baking Soda: Works with buttermilk for tenderness.
- Salt: Makes all the flavors pop.
- Buttermilk: Creates amazing texture.
- Egg: Adds richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla makes everything better.
Let's Get Started
First thing I do is preheat my air fryer just like a regular oven. While that's heating I mix my dry ingredients. Here's a little trick I've learned: whisk them really well to avoid any flour lumps. Those wet ingredients get mixed separately you want everything smooth and happy before combining.
Make Them Pretty
The best part about these donuts is dressing them up. Sometimes we do a simple cinnamon sugar coating other times we go all out with glazes and sprinkles. My kids love helping with this part though I'll admit our kitchen gets a bit colorful.
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Everyone Can Enjoy
I love that these donuts can be adapted for different diets. My gluten-free friend was so excited when I made her a batch with gluten-free flour. And using almond milk instead of buttermilk works beautifully for my vegan neighbors.
Tiny Treats
Making donut holes is super fun too. I use a small cookie scoop to keep them uniform. They cook up so quickly and they're perfect for little hands or when you just want a bite of something sweet.
Perfect Partners
Nothing beats a fresh warm donut with your morning coffee. We love setting up a little weekend brunch spread with these donuts fresh fruit and maybe some scrambled eggs. It feels like a café experience right at home.
Saving For Later
If you somehow have leftovers they keep really well in an airtight container. A quick zap in the air fryer brings back that fresh-made taste. Though honestly they rarely last more than a day in my house.
Why Air Fryer
Using the air fryer means less oil less mess and they're ready in minutes. Plus you don't have to babysit them like traditional fried donuts. Just set the timer and let the air fryer do its thing.
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Get Creative
Sometimes I'll add different flavors to the batter like a touch of nutmeg or some orange zest. The possibilities are endless and it's fun to experiment. My latest creation was adding mini chocolate chips to the batter absolute heaven.
Success Tips
After making these countless times I've learned a few tricks. Don't overfill your molds greasing them lightly helps and always let them cool a bit before glazing. These little details make such a difference.
Why They're Popular
These donuts are perfect for our busy lives. They're healthier than store-bought quick to make and you know exactly what's in them. Plus they make your house smell amazing while they're cooking.
Troubleshooting
If your donuts aren't rising well check your baking powder freshness. And if they're sticking just give those molds a light spray of cooking oil. Every air fryer is different so you might need to adjust times slightly.
Family Fun
Making these has become our weekend tradition. The kids love helping measure ingredients and especially decorating. Yes it gets messy but those are the memories we cherish.
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Budget Friendly
Making donuts at home saves so much money compared to buying them. Plus you can make exactly what you want when you want them. No more early morning bakery runs.
Perfect for Parties
These are amazing for brunches and parties. Set up a donut decorating station and let everyone create their own masterpieces. It's always a hit with both kids and adults.
Plan Ahead
I often make a double batch and freeze some unglazed. They thaw beautifully and it's so nice having homemade donuts ready whenever the craving hits.
Air Fryer Magic
It's amazing what this little appliance can do. From savory to sweet it's become one of my most-used kitchen tools. These donuts really show off its versatility.
Pure Joy
There's something special about homemade donuts. They bring people together create wonderful memories and fill your home with the most amazing aroma. Give them a try and I bet they'll become a tradition in your house too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why is milk temperature important?
The milk must be lukewarm (around 100°F) to activate the yeast properly. Hot milk will kill the yeast, while cold milk won't activate it. Test on your wrist - it should feel warm, not hot.
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring to room temperature and proceed with shaping and second rise before cooking.
- → Why use coconut oil spray?
Coconut oil spray works best because it has a high smoke point and won't leave any odd flavors. It helps achieve that golden-brown exterior.
- → How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size, and when you gently poke it with your finger, the indentation should remain without springing back.
- → Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw completely and warm slightly before glazing and serving.