Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Easy and Delicious Treat

Craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make? You’re in the right place! These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are simple, tasty, and oh-so-delicious. You can whip them up in no time, and they’re a fun dessert for any occasion. I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering ingredients to coating those fluffy donuts. Let’s get started and make something your whole family will love!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for coating)

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version. If you don’t have granulated sugar, try coconut sugar. This gives a nice flavor without affecting the texture. You can replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or another vegetable oil.

Essential Tools Needed

To make these donuts, you will need:

– An air fryer

– A mixing bowl

– A whisk

– A spatula

– A donut mold or muffin tin

– A shallow dish for the cinnamon-sugar mix

– A wire rack or plate for cooling

These tools help you create perfect donuts with ease. Each tool plays a part in making the process fun and simple.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer

First, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating makes sure the donuts cook evenly. Wait a few minutes to let it reach this temperature.

Preparing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the following dry ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. This helps the donuts rise and taste great.

Combining Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir these until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the donuts.

Filling the Molds and Air Frying

Now, slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry one. Use a spatula to mix gently. You want it combined but not overmixed.

Next, grease your donut mold lightly. If you don’t have one, use a muffin tin or shape freeform donuts on parchment paper.

Fill each donut cavity halfway. Then, place the mold in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Coating and Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, take the donuts out carefully and let them cool. In a shallow dish, mix:

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

While the donuts are warm, roll each in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Make sure they are coated on all sides. Serve them warm for the best taste, or store in an airtight container for later.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get the best texture, focus on mixing. Combine wet and dry ingredients just until mixed. Overmixing makes donuts tough. Also, check your air fryer temperature. If it runs hot, adjust cooking time. Donuts should look golden brown when done. Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out clean.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

If your donuts are too dry, you may have overcooked them. Adjust the time next time. If they are too dense, try mixing less. Make sure your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can lead to flat donuts. If they stick to the mold, grease it well before pouring in the batter.

How to Store Leftover Donuts

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They last up to two months in the freezer. To eat, just thaw at room temperature or warm in the air fryer for a few minutes.

Variations

Adding Flavors and Mix-ins

You can make your donuts even more fun with extra flavors. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. You can also mix in chopped nuts for a crunchy texture. If you want a fruity twist, add a few berries or pureed fruit to the batter. Just remember to keep the total wet ingredients the same. This way, your donuts stay light and fluffy.

Different Coating Options

While cinnamon and sugar are classic, you can try other coatings. For a chocolate lover, dip the warm donuts in melted chocolate instead. You could also roll them in powdered sugar for a sweet finish. If you want a spicy kick, mix cayenne pepper with sugar for an exciting twist. These small changes can make your donuts special and unique.

Alternate Shapes and Sizes

Donuts don’t have to be round! Use a muffin tin if you don’t have a mold. This gives you donut holes or mini donuts. You can also shape the batter into bars or squares. This shape works well for dipping too. Don’t be afraid to get creative with shapes. Each one can change the way your donuts taste and look!

Storage Info

Best Ways to Store Donuts

To keep your donuts fresh, use an airtight container. This helps prevent them from getting stale. If you want to keep them for longer, you can wrap them in plastic wrap first. Avoid stacking them too much, as it may ruin their shape.

How Long Do They Last?

When stored properly at room temperature, these donuts last about 2 to 3 days. If you place them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. However, they taste best when fresh!

Reheating Tips for Freshness

To enjoy your donuts warm again, use the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F and air fry for 2 to 3 minutes. This brings back that warm, soft, and fluffy texture. You can also microwave them for about 10 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without an air fryer?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have an air fryer, use an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the donut batter on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape them as you like. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

What if I don’t have a donut mold?

No worries! If you lack a donut mold, you can use a muffin tin. Fill each cavity halfway with batter for a muffin shape. You can also create freeform donuts by shaping the batter on parchment paper. Just make sure they are even in size for consistent cooking.

How can I make these gluten-free?

To make gluten-free donuts, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Check that your baking powder is also gluten-free. This keeps the donuts light and fluffy. Follow the same steps in the recipe, and enjoy!

Can I freeze the donuts?

Yes, you can freeze the donuts! Once they cool, place them in an airtight container. They will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes. This will bring back their warmth and softness.

This blog post covered how to make delicious air fryer donuts. We looked at the key ingredients and tools you need. We also discussed step-by-step instructions for making perfect donuts. Tips helped you avoid common mistakes and store any leftovers. You can try fun variations to change the flavors and shapes.

With these insights, you can create tasty donuts at home. Enjoy experimenting with your own ideas as you bak