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Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Easy and Tasty Recipe

by on January 1, 2025

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If you crave a sweet treat that’s easy to make and full of flavor, you’ll love these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. This simple recipe gets you warm, fluffy donuts in no time. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious snack that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into the steps, tips, and tricks that will have you making these tasty delights at home today!

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating) Using fresh baking powder helps the donuts rise well. Make sure your flour is not lumpy. The milk gives moisture and helps mix the batter smoothly. Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. Vanilla gives a sweet touch to the taste. For the coating, fresh cinnamon brings out the best flavor. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Almond milk works great if you want a dairy-free version. For a richer taste, try using brown sugar in place of white sugar. If you don't have a donut mold, a muffin tin works just fine. You can also shape them freeform if you like. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donuts cook evenly. I find it best to let it warm up for about 5 minutes. You want it hot before you add the donuts. In a medium bowl, add these dry ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Whisk these ingredients together well. This step mixes the flavors and ensures even baking. It’s important to break up any lumps in the flour. In another bowl, mix together: - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir these until smooth. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it will cook the egg. You want a nice blend of flavors here. Now, lightly grease your donut mold. If you don’t have one, use a muffin tin or shape freeform donuts. Fill each mold halfway with the batter. This helps them rise without spilling over. Place the mold in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-6 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. Once cooked, let the donuts cool slightly before rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Enjoy these warm treats! To get the best donuts, preheat your air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donuts cook evenly. A hot air fryer gives your donuts a nice, golden color. Preheating takes just a few minutes. It is a small step that makes a big difference. When you mix your batter, do it gently. Overmixing makes donuts tough. You want a light and fluffy texture. Mix until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. Some lumps are okay. This keeps your donuts soft and airy. To coat your donuts evenly, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix while they are warm. This helps the sugar stick better. Use a shallow dish for the mix. Gently roll each donut to cover all sides. This gives you a tasty, sweet crust that everyone loves. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh baking powder for the best rise and texture in your donuts. Donut Mold Alternatives: If you don't have a donut mold, consider using silicone molds or shape the donuts freeform on parchment paper. Quality Cinnamon: Use high-quality ground cinnamon for a more aromatic and flavorful coating on your donuts. Serve Warm: These donuts are best enjoyed warm right after coating them in cinnamon sugar for maximum flavor and texture. {{image_2}} You can easily change the flavor of your donuts. For a chocolate twist, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to your dry mix. This adds a rich taste. If you want warm spice, add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. It pairs well with cinnamon. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Be creative and try what you love! If you prefer a glaze, skip the cinnamon sugar. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze while warm. This makes a sweet, sticky treat. You can add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for flavor. Glazed donuts are a fun twist on the classic! You can make these donuts healthier too. Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. The taste might be a bit nuttier, but it's still delicious. You can also cut back on sugar. Try using 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup instead. These options help you enjoy a tasty treat while being mindful of health! To keep your donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft. You can also use plastic wrap if you prefer. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. When you want to enjoy your donuts again, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them soft. You can also use the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but the texture may change. If you want to save some donuts for later, freezing is a great idea. Let the donuts cool completely first. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or reheat as mentioned. Yes, you can use a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The texture may differ slightly, but they will still be tasty. These donuts are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store them, place them in an airtight container. They will stay good for 1-2 days at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, they may lose some of their soft texture over time. Cinnamon sugar donuts pair well with many dips. You can try chocolate sauce for a sweet treat. A simple vanilla glaze works great too. If you prefer something fruity, a berry sauce adds a nice touch. For a twist, serve with maple syrup for dipping. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites! You learned how to make delicious donuts using an air fryer. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step methods, and helpful tips. I shared easy variations and storage advice too. Remember, experimenting with flavors can make your treats even better. With this guide, you can bake tasty donuts at home. Enjoy the process and have fun sharing with others!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick treat.
  2. Air Fryer Magic: Using the air fryer means you get deliciously fluffy donuts without the extra oil, making them a healthier option.
  3. Customizable Coating: You can easily adjust the cinnamon-sugar coating to your taste or even try different flavors!
  4. Perfect for Any Occasion: These donuts are great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, making them versatile for any time of day.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Key Notes on Ingredients

Using fresh baking powder helps the donuts rise well. Make sure your flour is not lumpy. The milk gives moisture and helps mix the batter smoothly. Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. Vanilla gives a sweet touch to the taste. For the coating, fresh cinnamon brings out the best flavor.

Possible Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Almond milk works great if you want a dairy-free version. For a richer taste, try using brown sugar in place of white sugar. If you don’t have a donut mold, a muffin tin works just fine. You can also shape them freeform if you like.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donuts cook evenly. I find it best to let it warm up for about 5 minutes. You want it hot before you add the donuts.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add these dry ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Whisk these ingredients together well. This step mixes the flavors and ensures even baking. It’s important to break up any lumps in the flour.

Combining Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir these until smooth. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it will cook the egg. You want a nice blend of flavors here.

Filling the Molds and Cooking

Now, lightly grease your donut mold. If you don’t have one, use a muffin tin or shape freeform donuts. Fill each mold halfway with the batter. This helps them rise without spilling over.

Place the mold in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-6 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. Once cooked, let the donuts cool slightly before rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Enjoy these warm treats!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Preheat Your Air Fryer

To get the best donuts, preheat your air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donuts cook evenly. A hot air fryer gives your donuts a nice, golden color. Preheating takes just a few minutes. It is a small step that makes a big difference.

Avoiding Overmixing

When you mix your batter, do it gently. Overmixing makes donuts tough. You want a light and fluffy texture. Mix until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. Some lumps are okay. This keeps your donuts soft and airy.

Ensuring Even Coating with Cinnamon Sugar

To coat your donuts evenly, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix while they are warm. This helps the sugar stick better. Use a shallow dish for the mix. Gently roll each donut to cover all sides. This gives you a tasty, sweet crust that everyone loves.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh baking powder for the best rise and texture in your donuts.
  2. Donut Mold Alternatives: If you don’t have a donut mold, consider using silicone molds or shape the donuts freeform on parchment paper.
  3. Quality Cinnamon: Use high-quality ground cinnamon for a more aromatic and flavorful coating on your donuts.
  4. Serve Warm: These donuts are best enjoyed warm right after coating them in cinnamon sugar for maximum flavor and texture.

Variations

Adding Flavors (e.g., chocolate, nutmeg)

You can easily change the flavor of your donuts. For a chocolate twist, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to your dry mix. This adds a rich taste. If you want warm spice, add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. It pairs well with cinnamon. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Be creative and try what you love!

Glazing Instead of Coating

If you prefer a glaze, skip the cinnamon sugar. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze while warm. This makes a sweet, sticky treat. You can add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for flavor. Glazed donuts are a fun twist on the classic!

Healthier Options (e.g., whole wheat flour)

You can make these donuts healthier too. Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. The taste might be a bit nuttier, but it’s still delicious. You can also cut back on sugar. Try using 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup instead. These options help you enjoy a tasty treat while being mindful of health!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Donuts

To keep your donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft. You can also use plastic wrap if you prefer. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Tips

When you want to enjoy your donuts again, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them soft. You can also use the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but the texture may change.

Freezing Donuts

If you want to save some donuts for later, freezing is a great idea. Let the donuts cool completely first. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or reheat as mentioned.

FAQs

Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can use a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The texture may differ slightly, but they will still be tasty.

How long do these donuts last?

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store them, place them in an airtight container. They will stay good for 1-2 days at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, they may lose some of their soft texture over time.

What dip or sauce goes well with cinnamon sugar donuts?

Cinnamon sugar donuts pair well with many dips. You can try chocolate sauce for a sweet treat. A simple vanilla glaze works great too. If you prefer something fruity, a berry sauce adds a nice touch. For a twist, serve with maple syrup for dipping. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!

You learned how to make delicious donuts using an air fryer. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step methods, and helpful tips. I shared easy variations and storage advice too. Remember, experimenting with flavors can make your treats even better.

With this guide, you can bake tasty donuts at home. Enjoy the process and have fun sharing with other

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating) Using fresh baking powder helps the donuts rise well. Make sure your flour is not lumpy. The milk gives moisture and helps mix the batter smoothly. Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. Vanilla gives a sweet touch to the taste. For the coating, fresh cinnamon brings out the best flavor. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Almond milk works great if you want a dairy-free version. For a richer taste, try using brown sugar in place of white sugar. If you don't have a donut mold, a muffin tin works just fine. You can also shape them freeform if you like. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donuts cook evenly. I find it best to let it warm up for about 5 minutes. You want it hot before you add the donuts. In a medium bowl, add these dry ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Whisk these ingredients together well. This step mixes the flavors and ensures even baking. It’s important to break up any lumps in the flour. In another bowl, mix together: - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir these until smooth. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it will cook the egg. You want a nice blend of flavors here. Now, lightly grease your donut mold. If you don’t have one, use a muffin tin or shape freeform donuts. Fill each mold halfway with the batter. This helps them rise without spilling over. Place the mold in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-6 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. Once cooked, let the donuts cool slightly before rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Enjoy these warm treats! To get the best donuts, preheat your air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donuts cook evenly. A hot air fryer gives your donuts a nice, golden color. Preheating takes just a few minutes. It is a small step that makes a big difference. When you mix your batter, do it gently. Overmixing makes donuts tough. You want a light and fluffy texture. Mix until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. Some lumps are okay. This keeps your donuts soft and airy. To coat your donuts evenly, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix while they are warm. This helps the sugar stick better. Use a shallow dish for the mix. Gently roll each donut to cover all sides. This gives you a tasty, sweet crust that everyone loves. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh baking powder for the best rise and texture in your donuts. Donut Mold Alternatives: If you don't have a donut mold, consider using silicone molds or shape the donuts freeform on parchment paper. Quality Cinnamon: Use high-quality ground cinnamon for a more aromatic and flavorful coating on your donuts. Serve Warm: These donuts are best enjoyed warm right after coating them in cinnamon sugar for maximum flavor and texture. {{image_2}} You can easily change the flavor of your donuts. For a chocolate twist, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to your dry mix. This adds a rich taste. If you want warm spice, add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. It pairs well with cinnamon. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Be creative and try what you love! If you prefer a glaze, skip the cinnamon sugar. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze while warm. This makes a sweet, sticky treat. You can add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for flavor. Glazed donuts are a fun twist on the classic! You can make these donuts healthier too. Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. The taste might be a bit nuttier, but it's still delicious. You can also cut back on sugar. Try using 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup instead. These options help you enjoy a tasty treat while being mindful of health! To keep your donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft. You can also use plastic wrap if you prefer. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. When you want to enjoy your donuts again, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them soft. You can also use the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but the texture may change. If you want to save some donuts for later, freezing is a great idea. Let the donuts cool completely first. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or reheat as mentioned. Yes, you can use a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The texture may differ slightly, but they will still be tasty. These donuts are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store them, place them in an airtight container. They will stay good for 1-2 days at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, they may lose some of their soft texture over time. Cinnamon sugar donuts pair well with many dips. You can try chocolate sauce for a sweet treat. A simple vanilla glaze works great too. If you prefer something fruity, a berry sauce adds a nice touch. For a twist, serve with maple syrup for dipping. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites! You learned how to make delicious donuts using an air fryer. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step methods, and helpful tips. I shared easy variations and storage advice too. Remember, experimenting with flavors can make your treats even better. With this guide, you can bake tasty donuts at home. Enjoy the process and have fun sharing with others!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Delicious and fluffy donuts coated in cinnamon sugar, made easily in an air fryer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Lightly grease a donut mold or tray that fits your air fryer. If you don't have one, you can use a muffin tin or make freeform donut shapes.
  • Fill each mold about halfway with the donut batter. If making freeform donuts, use a spoon to shape them into donut shapes on a piece of parchment paper.
  • Place the donut mold in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-6 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
  • Once cooked, remove the donuts from the mold and let them cool slightly.
  • In a shallow dish, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
  • Roll each donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm to coat evenly.
  • Serve warm or allow to cool completely before storing.

Notes

For best results, serve warm.
Keyword air fryer, cinnamon sugar, donuts

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