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Fluffy airfryer donuts

Featured in Sweet treats that make you happy.

A revamped way to enjoy donuts using an airfryer. Soft on the inside, crunchy outside, minus the greasy deep-frying.
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Maria from tastyhush
Updated on Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:24:14 GMT
A plate stacked with powdered sugar-covered donuts, with a pot in the background. Pin it
A plate stacked with powdered sugar-covered donuts, with a pot in the background. | Tastyhush.com

Air fryer donuts have become my new favorite treat in the kitchen. This lightened-up version of the classic French pastry brings back childhood memories while keeping things healthier. The perfect contrast between the crispy exterior and fluffy interior makes these treats irresistible for the whole family.

Why These Air Fryer Donuts Are Special

This cooking method uses 90% less oil while maintaining that authentic donut taste and texture. The air fryer has proven to be the perfect tool for creating healthier versions of traditional fried treats. Clean-up is also a breeze since all parts are dishwasher safe.

Essential Ingredients

  • 250g sifted all-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla sugar
  • Fresh yeast
  • 1 room temperature egg
  • Lukewarm milk
  • Softened butter
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients in a stand mixer
  2. Add egg and warm milk, knead for 5 minutes
  3. Gradually incorporate softened butter until dough becomes smooth and elastic
  4. Let rise for 2 hours in a warm spot
  5. Shape into balls and proof for another hour
  6. Lightly brush with oil
  7. Air fry at 190°C until golden brown

Tips for Perfect Results

Using warm milk helps activate the yeast properly for optimal rise. Thorough kneading is essential for achieving that perfect airy texture. For the best experience, serve these donuts the same day they're made to enjoy maximum freshness.

Golden brown donut balls dusted with powdered sugar in a bowl, with kitchen ingredients in the background. Pin it
Golden brown donut balls dusted with powdered sugar in a bowl, with kitchen ingredients in the background. | Tastyhush.com

Benefits of Air Frying

The air fryer revolutionizes this traditional recipe by producing equally delicious but lighter donuts. The cooking process is quick and even, while cleanup requires minimal effort. These donuts offer all the enjoyment with none of the guilt.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! Mix the dough the day before and chill it in the fridge. Bring it out 30 minutes before shaping the donuts.
→ How can I tell if my donuts are ready?
Check for a golden-brown color on the outside. Tap on them lightly—they should sound hollow and feel firm.
→ Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, you can freeze them after they’ve cooled. Warm them up a bit in the airfryer to enjoy them again.
→ Can I swap fresh yeast with dry yeast?
Absolutely, use a third of the amount for dry yeast. For this, around 3g of dry yeast should be fine.
→ Why didn’t my donuts puff up?
Resting time is key. Ensure the dough rises in a warm spot and the yeast is active before starting.

Light donuts airfryer

Delightfully fluffy donuts cooked in the airfryer. A lighter yet equally tasty twist on the traditional ones.

Prep Time
180 Minutes
Cook Time
9 Minutes
Total Time
189 Minutes
By: Maria

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: French

Yield: 10 Servings (10 donuts)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 80 ml of low-fat milk.
02 30 g of softened butter.
03 8 g of fresh baker's yeast.
04 1 egg.
05 250 g of all-purpose flour.
06 40 g of granulated sugar.
07 A pinch of salt.
08 1 packet of vanilla sugar.
09 Powdered sugar for topping.

Instructions

Step 01

Mix together all the dry ingredients, then stir in the warm milk and the egg. Knead the mixture for 5 minutes.

Step 02

Gently work the softened butter into the dough bit by bit until everything is mixed evenly.

Step 03

Let the dough rest in a warm place for 2 hours so it rises.

Step 04

Punch the air out of the dough, split it into 10 pieces, roll them into balls, and let them sit for another hour.

Step 05

Brush the balls lightly with oil, then cook them in the air fryer at 190°C for 6 to 9 minutes.

Notes

  1. This is a lighter twist on classic donuts.
  2. Letting the dough rise properly is key for the texture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Air fryer.
  • Mixing bowl.
  • Kitchen scale.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy products.
  • Gluten.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 4 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 25 g
  • Protein: 3 g