Air Fryer Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Form the Dough: Pour the yeast mixture and the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
5. Knead the Dough: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
6. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Cut Out the Donuts: Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll any scraps and cut out more donuts until all the dough is used.
3. Second Rise: Place the cut-out donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with the kitchen towel, and let them rise again for about 20-30 minutes.

Step 3: Air Fry the Donuts

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Donuts: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place a few donuts in the basket, making sure they’re not touching. Air fry for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.
3. Brush with Butter: Immediately after removing the donuts from the air fryer, brush them with melted butter.
4. Coat with Sugar: In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon (if using). Roll the warm donuts in the sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Enjoy your air fryer donuts warm, plain, or with your favorite glaze or toppings.
2. Storage: Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to refresh them.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Donuts offer a healthier way to indulge in a classic sweet treat. With their fluffy interior and crisp exterior, these donuts are sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and customizable with various toppings, these air-fried delights are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of traditional donuts with a modern, guilt-free twist!