Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing 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, flipping halfway through, until the donuts are golden brown. Repeat with the remaining donuts and donut holes.
Step 6: Coat the Donuts
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Brush the warm donuts with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve: Serve the donuts warm and enjoy! They are perfect on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dough for a spicy kick.
- Filled Donuts: Fill the donut holes with jam, custard, or Nutella using a piping bag.
- Chocolate Coating: Dip the donuts in melted chocolate and top with sprinkles for a chocolatey treat.
- Fruit Variations: Add a small amount of fruit puree to the glaze for a fruity twist.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Donuts are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe ensures light and fluffy donuts with minimal effort. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful donuts with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Air Fryer Donuts offer a delicious and satisfying treat that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. This versatile recipe can be customized with various coatings and fillings to suit your taste. Enjoy the delightful flavor and texture of these delicious donuts made in the air fryer!