I love making these air fryer doughnuts whenever I want a soft, fluffy, bakery-style treat without the heaviness of deep frying. They come out beautifully golden on the outside and pillowy on the inside, then I dip them in a smooth vanilla glaze that adds the perfect sweetness. It feels like a comforting homemade indulgence that I can enjoy for breakfast or as a cozy snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy how this recipe gives me the classic doughnut texture with far less oil than traditional frying. The air fryer makes the process easier and cleaner, while still delivering that light, airy bite I expect. I also like how simple the ingredients are, and how I can customize the glaze or toppings depending on my mood. These doughnuts always turn out satisfying and feel just as special as ones from a bakery.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the dough:
flour
milk
eggs
active dry yeast
butter
sugar
salt
For the glaze:
butter
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
evaporated milk
Directions
I start by warming the milk until it is just slightly hot, then I mix in the yeast and let it sit until it becomes foamy. This step tells me the yeast is active and ready.
Next, I combine the eggs, melted butter, sugar, salt, and part of the flour with the milk mixture. I mix everything until it comes together, then switch to kneading until I get a soft, slightly sticky dough.
I transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until it doubles in size. Once risen, I punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface.
I cut out doughnut shapes using round cutters, then place them on a lined tray and let them rise again until puffy.
After that, I preheat the air fryer, lightly spray the basket, and cook the doughnuts in a single layer. I flip them halfway through cooking and wait until they turn golden.
Finally, I mix the glaze ingredients until smooth, dip each slightly cooled doughnut, and let them rest on a rack so the glaze sets nicely.
Servings And Timing
I get about 18 doughnuts from this recipe.
Prep time takes around 10 minutes, cooking takes about 6 minutes per batch, and I allow additional time for resting and rising. The total active time is about 21 minutes, but I plan for around 2 hours including rising time.
Variations
I sometimes switch things up by making a chocolate glaze instead of vanilla. On other days, I skip the glaze and roll the warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar for a classic flavor. I also like adding a bit of almond or coconut extract to the glaze for a different aroma. When I want something fun, I mix sprinkles into the dough or sprinkle them on top after glazing.
Storage/Reheating
I find these doughnuts taste best fresh, but I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them in a single layer and separate them with parchment paper.
When I am ready to enjoy them again, I let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their softness.
FAQs
Can I make doughnut holes with this dough?
I use the leftover dough pieces to make doughnut holes, and they turn out just as delicious. They cook a bit faster in the air fryer.
How do I know if my yeast is active?
I look for bubbling and foam after mixing the yeast with warm milk. If nothing happens, I know the yeast is not active.
Can I use a different type of milk?
I sometimes use skim milk instead of whole milk, and it still works well in the recipe.
What if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
I use a regular glass for the outer circle and a small cap or shot glass for the center hole.
Why are my doughnuts dense?
I make sure to let the dough rise fully both times, since skipping or shortening the rise can make them dense instead of fluffy.
Conclusion
I always enjoy making these air fryer doughnuts because they bring together comfort and simplicity in one recipe. The texture stays soft and airy, and the glaze adds just the right sweetness. Whether I make them for a weekend breakfast or a treat during the day, they never fail to satisfy and feel homemade in the best way.
