Description
Golden, fluffy donuts made with less oil, cooked to perfection in the air fryer, and dipped in a luscious glaze. A healthier and mess-free twist on a classic treat!
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup lukewarm milk (100°F)
- 2½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup + 1 teaspoon white sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted melted butter
- 3 cups plain flour
- Coconut oil spray (as needed)
For the Glaze:
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons hot water
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- Mix lukewarm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead by hand or with a stand mixer (5 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled (1–1.5 hours).
- Shape the Donuts:
- Roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness. Cut out 3-inch rounds with a smaller hole in the center. Save centers for donut holes.
- Second Rise:
- Place shaped donuts on parchment-lined trays. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Air Fry the Donuts:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the basket with coconut oil spray.
- Place donuts in a single layer, spray tops lightly with oil, and air fry for 4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make the Glaze:
- Combine melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and hot water in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Dip and Serve:
- Dip warm donuts into the glaze, letting excess drip off. Place on a wire rack to set. Garnish with sprinkles if desired.
Notes
- Use lukewarm milk to activate the yeast properly.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
- For added flavor, try a cinnamon sugar coating or a chocolate glaze.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American