Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour 1:1 with your favorite gluten-free blend (I like ones with xanthan gum already added). The texture will be slightly denser but still delicious. Just don’t overmix—gluten-free doughs get gummy if handled too much.

Why are my donuts tough?

Two likely culprits: overmixing the dough (stop as soon as ingredients combine) or overbaking. Remember, they keep cooking a bit after coming out of the air fryer. Pull them when they’re just golden and springy to the touch.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes! Prep it up to 24 hours ahead—just wrap tightly and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temp for 30 minutes before shaping. The dough actually develops better flavor this way!

Help—my donuts stick to the basket!

A quick spritz of oil is your best friend here. If your air fryer’s notorious for sticking, try a parchment liner (cut to fit with holes for airflow) or a light dusting of flour on the donuts’ bottoms.

For sure! Freeze unglazed donuts in a single layer first, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 325°F for 3-4 minutes—they’ll taste fresh-baked.

Delicious Air Fryer Donuts in Just 20 Minutes

Description

Crispy and delicious donuts made easily in your air fryer with minimal oil.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 tbsp melted butter
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cooking spray or oil (for coating)

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Instructions

Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a dough.
Roll out the dough and cut into donut shapes.
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly coat donuts with cooking spray or oil.
Air fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Cool before glazing or topping as desired.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model.
Use a piping bag for easier dough shaping.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 7 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American