Looking for a quick and tasty snack? These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are simple to make and irresistible! With just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy a healthier treat without sacrificing flavor. Ready to dive into this sweet adventure? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Key Ingredients Required
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
These ingredients form the base of your donuts. The all-purpose flour gives shape, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. The baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. Ground cinnamon infuses a warm, cozy flavor, making these treats irresistible.
Optional Ingredients
– Buttermilk alternatives (like yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar)
– Flavor variations (consider adding vanilla or nutmeg for a twist)
You can use buttermilk or a substitute. Yogurt mixed with a bit of milk works great too. If you want to switch things up, consider adding a touch of nutmeg or extra vanilla. These options can enhance the taste and make your donuts unique.
Equipment Needed
– Air fryer
– Donut pan
– Mixing bowls
An air fryer is key for cooking these donuts quickly and evenly. A donut pan helps shape them perfectly. You will also need mixing bowls to combine your ingredients. With this equipment, you are ready to make the best air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheating the air fryer
First, you need to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures the donuts cook evenly and become fluffy.
Mixing dry and wet ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and stir gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts soft.
Baking the Donuts
Filling the donut pan
Next, lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray. Spoon the batter into each donut cavity, filling them about 2/3 full. This allows room for the donuts to rise without spilling over.
Air frying process (timing & temperature)
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated air fryer. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to bake in batches. Cook the donuts for about 5 to 7 minutes. They should turn golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
Coating the Donuts
Making cinnamon sugar
While your donuts bake, make the cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until well blended.
Tossing donuts in the coating
Once the donuts are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. While they are still warm, toss each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Ensure each donut is fully coated for that sweet flavor.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make your donuts soft, mixing is key. Combine dry ingredients well before adding wet ones. This helps the baking powder and soda work properly. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are fine. For greasing the pan, use non-stick spray. This ensures easy release after baking.
Customization Suggestions
You can make your donuts even more fun! Try adding chocolate chips to the batter. This adds a sweet twist. You can also drizzle a glaze on top for extra flavor. Don’t stop there! Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to change things up.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If donuts stick to the pan, it may be due to insufficient greasing. Make sure to coat the pan well. If your donuts are undercooked, check the cooking time. Different air fryer models can vary. For smaller fryers, reduce the time slightly to avoid burning.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. Enjoy your baking!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the classic cinnamon sugar donuts with fun flavors.
– Pumpkin spice cinnamon sugar donuts: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the batter. This gives a warm, cozy taste perfect for fall.
– Lemon zest infused donuts: Mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh twist to your donuts.
Dietary-Friendly Alternatives
If you have dietary needs, don’t worry! You can still enjoy these donuts.
– Gluten-free options: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This works well and keeps the taste great.
– Vegan modifications: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk and the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce. These swaps keep the donuts soft and tasty.
Holiday-Inspired Variants
Make your donuts festive by adding seasonal flavors.
– Seasonal flavors: Try eggnog flavor by adding 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1/4 cup of eggnog instead of buttermilk. Or, use peppermint extract for a minty delight during the winter holidays. These flavors make your donuts special for any occasion.
Explore these variations to find your favorite twist on the air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to stay soft, avoid stacking them too tightly. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Long-Term Storage Solutions
For longer storage, you can freeze these donuts. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This makes them taste fresh again!
Shelf Life of Donuts
At room temperature, your donuts last about two days. In the fridge, they can stay good for about a week. However, refrigeration can make them a bit dry. For the best taste and texture, I recommend eating them fresh or freezing them for later.
FAQs
How to make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
To make air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts, first, gather your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Next, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. In one bowl, mix the dry ingredients. This includes flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet mix into the dry mix and stir gently.
Grease a donut pan and fill it with the batter. Don’t overfill; aim for two-thirds full. Place the pan in the air fryer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Check if they are golden brown and clean with a toothpick.
While the donuts cook, mix the cinnamon and sugar for coating. Once cooked, let the donuts cool slightly. Toss them in the cinnamon sugar mix while they are warm. Enjoy your delicious air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts fresh! You can find the full recipe for detailed steps.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use other types of flour. However, the results may vary. If you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend. These options can change the texture and flavor. Almond flour makes the donuts denser and richer. A gluten-free blend often mimics all-purpose flour closely.
If you use whole wheat flour, the donuts will be heartier and have a nutty taste. You may need to adjust the liquid since whole wheat absorbs more moisture. In general, stick to a similar measurement, and watch the texture of your dough.
What is the best air fryer temperature for donuts?
The best air fryer temperature for donuts is usually 350°F. This temperature works well across most air fryer brands. Cooking at this heat ensures even cooking and a soft, fluffy inside.
Some air fryers may vary slightly in temperature. If your donuts appear golden too quickly, lower the temp. If they seem undercooked, you can increase the heat by 10-15 degrees. Always monitor your donuts closely, as each air fryer cooks slightly differently.
In this blog post, we explored making air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts. We covered the key ingredients, equipment needed, and step-by-step instructions. Tips for perfect texture and customizations helped enhance your baking experience. You learned about flavor variations and how to store your donuts for optimal freshness. With these simple steps and tricks, you can enjoy delicious donuts at home. I encourage you to experiment and find your favorite flavors. Happy baking!
