Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Form Dough: Add the yeast mixture and the milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes with a dough hook attachment.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Donuts
- Roll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut Donuts: Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out donuts and donut holes. Re-roll the scraps and cut more donuts until all the dough is used.
Step 4: Let the Donuts Rise
- Second Rise: Place the cut donuts on a lightly floured baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Step 5: Cook the Donuts
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange in Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place a few donuts in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Lightly spray the tops of the donuts with cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Cook the donuts at 350°F (175°C) for 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Flip halfway through cooking. Repeat with the remaining donuts and donut holes.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
Step 7: Glaze the Donuts
- Dip the Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to set.
Step 8: Serve
- Enjoy: Serve the donuts warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of glazing, toss the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar.
- Chocolate Glaze: Melt chocolate chips with a bit of butter and dip the donuts in the chocolate glaze.
- Sprinkles: Add sprinkles to the glaze for a fun and colorful touch.
- Filled Donuts: Fill the donut holes with jam or cream using a piping bag.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Donuts are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe results in light and fluffy donuts that can be customized with your favorite glazes and toppings. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful donuts with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Air Fryer Donuts offer a healthier and convenient way to enjoy homemade donuts with minimal effort. This versatile recipe can be customized with various glazes and toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy the delightful flavor and texture of these delicious donuts made in the air fryer!