Best Air Fryer Glazed Donuts Recipe: A Game-Changer for Breakfast Lovers
I still remember the day I attempted to make donuts from scratch. The dough was a mess, and the frying process left me with a batch of greasy, soggy treats that looked more like hockey pucks than fluffy donut goodness. It was a wake-up call – or rather, a crash course in why some recipes are better left unattempted.
Fast-forward to when I stumbled upon the magic of air frying. Having tried and failed with multiple cooking methods, I was skeptical at first. But one fateful morning, as I was experimenting with my trusty Air Fryer, something clicked. The resulting donuts were not only perfectly cooked but also ridiculously easy to make – a revelation that changed my breakfast game forever.
Why This Recipe Works: Texture and Health
The secret to this Air Fryer Glazed Donuts recipe lies in its ability to balance texture and health. Unlike traditional frying methods, air frying uses little to no oil, resulting in donuts that are remarkably light and fluffy. The glaze adds a sweet, sticky touch without overpowering the delicate texture of the donut itself.
What Makes This Recipe Unique:
- Uses minimal oil: No deep-frying required – just a quick spritz of cooking spray for perfect browning!
- Results in light and fluffy donuts: Air frying maintains the delicate texture, making each bite a joy.
- No artificial preservatives or additives: Fresh ingredients only, ensuring a healthier breakfast option.
Ingredients:
To achieve these mouthwatering results, you’ll need the following:
- 1 package active dry yeast (Red Star or Fleischmann’s recommended)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (White Lily or King Arthur preferred for a lighter texture)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (Earth Balance or Kerrygold for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Cooking spray (Pam or non-stick cooking spray recommended)
- Glaze ingredients: powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (see below)
Step-by-Step:
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s dive into the process. Follow along as if I’m guiding you through a friendly kitchen conversation:
Step 1: Activate Yeast and Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and lukewarm milk. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast, then let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Melted Butter
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks rough – we’ll get there!
Step 4: Knead and Rest
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Air Fry Donuts
Punch down the dough and roll out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or a glass to create your desired shape. Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each for even cooking.
Step 6: Cook and Glaze
Spray the donuts lightly with cooking spray and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly. While still warm, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the donuts and serve immediately.
The “Secret Trick”: Pro-Tip
Want to take your Air Fryer Glazed Donuts game to the next level? Try this pro-tip:
- Use a mixture of granulated sugar and cornstarch in place of all-purpose flour for an extra-crispy exterior. Simply combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1/4 cup whole milk to create the dry mixture.
FAQs:
Got questions? We’ve got answers!
- Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
- A: Yes, but keep in mind that whole wheat or oat flour might affect the texture and browning. All-purpose flour is recommended for the best results.
- Q: What if my donuts don’t rise?
- A: Check your yeast activation time and ensure the dough has enough liquid. If you’re still experiencing issues, try adjusting the temperature or cooking time in the air fryer.
And that’s it! With this Air Fryer Glazed Donuts recipe, you’ll be well on your way to a breakfast revolution. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a sweet, crunchy, and healthier donut experience – all thanks to the magic of air frying.
Get Ready to Level Up Your Breakfast Game!
Try this game-changing recipe today and join the ranks of breakfast enthusiasts who’ve discovered the secret to mouthwatering Air Fryer Glazed Donuts. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #AirFryerDonuts!
