So, we've created these fabulous Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, a lighter, quick-bake take on classic fried donuts made in a countertop air fryer, a cake-style (baking-powder) donut that skips yeast and deep-frying for a quicker prep.
And guess what? They're super quick to whip up.
Remember those lazy mornings when all you wanted was something sweet without a huge mess? Well, we've got you covered.
These donuts are the perfect fix. Plus, they're way healthier than the deep-fried versions.
Let's be - we all need a bit of sugar-loving now and then. Grab your air fryer and join us on this easy donut-making joyride.
With minimal effort, you'll have a batch of warm, sugary donuts ready to devour.
Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Donuts
To whip up these tasty donuts, you'll need the following ingredients:
- All-purpose Flour: The base for your donuts.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
- Baking Powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor.
- Milk: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
- Egg: Adds structure to the donuts.
- Butter: Adds richness to the dough.
- Vanilla Extract: For flavor.
- Cinnamon Sugar: A mix of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar to coat the donuts.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Ground Cinnamon - popular in baking and spice blends; try air-fryer cinnamon toast ideas for a toasty cinnamon boost.
- Granulated Sugar - adds sweetness and a slight crunch to the coating; if you prefer alternatives see jam sugar substitutes for baking.
- Melted Butter: To help the cinnamon sugar adhere to the donuts, melted to about 90-100°F for easy brushing.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Ensure yummy and perfectly cooked donuts with these handy tips:
- Don't Overwork the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the donuts light and airy.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Ensures even cooking and a perfect texture; preheat the basket to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Brush with Butter: Lightly brushing the donuts with melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick better, creating a slightly glossy finish.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure all donuts cook evenly; for more simple weeknight ideas see easy donut recipes for beginners.
Variations and Add-Ons
Customize your Air Fryer Donuts with these variations; also explore moist cornbread variations for sides, including a moist Southern-style cornbread for a hearty accompaniment.
- Filled Donuts: Add a dollop of jam or chocolate spread to the center before air frying.
- Glazed Donuts: Dip the cooled donuts in a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a classic finish, mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons milk for a pourable consistency.
- Chocolate Chip Donuts: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra sweet surprise.
Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Equipment
- Air-fryer
- Mixing bowls
- whisk
- Rolling Pin
- Donut Cutter
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll out to ½ inch thickness.
- Use a donut cutter to cut out the donuts. Re-roll the dough as needed.
- Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- While the donuts cook, mix the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
- Once the donuts are done, brush them with melted butter and coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a more decadent treat, drizzle with a simple glaze after coating with cinnamon sugar.
- Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat donuts in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to maintain their fluffiness before serving.
Nutrition
For a savory snack option, try crispy air fryer chicken wings that can finish in about 25-30 minutes depending on wing size. For a classic side, make crispy air fryer french fries cooked at 400°F for roughly 15-20 minutes for golden results.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
