Introduction to Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked donuts wafting through the kitchen.

As a kid, I remember the excitement of visiting the local bakery, eyes wide at the colorful array of treats.

Now, I can recreate that joy at home with these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.

This recipe is a quick solution for busy mornings or a delightful treat to impress friends and family.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have warm, fluffy donuts ready in no time.

Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a game changer for anyone craving a sweet treat without the fuss.

They come together in just 16 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic mornings or spontaneous dessert cravings.

The air fryer gives them a delightful crispiness while keeping them soft and fluffy inside.

Plus, the warm cinnamon sugar coating is simply irresistible.

Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Creating these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is a breeze with just a few simple ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your donuts, providing structure and fluffiness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and adds to the delightful cinnamon sugar coating.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise, giving them that light texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, adding warmth and that classic donut flavor.
• Whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and contributes to a tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor; melted for easy mixing.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of this elevates the flavor profile, making it even more delicious.
• Cinnamon sugar coating: A mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for that irresistible finish.

Feel free to get creative!

For a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.

If you’re in the mood for a glaze, mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk and vanilla for a sweet drizzle.

Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Making Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is a straightforward process that anyone can master.

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, fluffy donuts in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

This ensures that your donuts cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.

Make sure everything is well combined.

This step is crucial for a uniform texture in your donuts.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the whole milk, melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donuts, making them irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Gently stir until just combined.

Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

This keeps your donuts light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare the Donut Molds

Lightly grease your donut pan or silicone mold with cooking spray.

Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each about halfway.

This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing.

Step 6: Air Fry the Donuts

Place the filled molds in the air fryer basket.

Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown.

Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when they’re done.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donuts are cooking, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

This coating is what makes these donuts truly special.

The warm donuts will soak up that sweet goodness!

Step 8: Coat and Serve

Once the donuts are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.

While they’re still warm, toss each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts!

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for fluffy donuts.
• Use a silicone mold for easy removal and perfect shapes.
• Experiment with different spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.
• Let the donuts cool slightly before coating for better adherence.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

• Air Fryer: The star of the show! Any model will do, but a basket-style fryer works best.
• Donut Pan or Silicone Mold: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, use muffin tins.
• Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk and Spoon: For combining ingredients and filling the molds.

Variations

• Chocolate Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Maple Glazed Donuts: Replace the cinnamon sugar coating with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk.
• Apple Cinnamon Donuts: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped apples for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
• Vegan Donuts: Use almond milk instead of whole milk, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Coffee: Enjoy your donuts with a hot cup of coffee or a latte for a delightful breakfast.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
• Presentation: Arrange donuts on a colorful platter, dusted with extra cinnamon sugar for a beautiful display.
• Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQs about Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Can I use a different type of flour for these donuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

How do I store leftover donuts?

Store any leftover Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for a couple of days, but trust me, they won’t last long!

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before filling the molds and air frying.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, you can freeze the donuts! Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated in the air fryer for a quick treat later on.

Final Thoughts

Creating Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is more than just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and sweetness.

Each bite transports you back to simpler times, evoking memories of carefree mornings and joyful gatherings.

The ease of this recipe means you can whip up a batch anytime, making it perfect for family breakfasts or surprise treats.

As you savor these fluffy, cinnamon-kissed donuts, you’ll find yourself smiling, knowing you’ve crafted something special.

So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this sweet adventure—you won’t regret it!

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