Introduction
Donuts are a popular and delicious treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Making donuts at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when using an air fryer. Air fryers are a healthier alternative to deep frying, as they use little to no oil. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making donuts in the air fryer, so you can enjoy these tasty treats guilt-free.
Gather Your Ingredients
To make donuts in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional toppings such as powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or glaze
Preparing the Dough
Start by combining the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough donuts.
Shaping the Donuts
Once the dough is ready, lightly flour a clean surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out the donut shapes. If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can also use a glass for the outer shape and a smaller round object, such as a bottle cap, to create the donut hole. Place the cut-out donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Air Frying the Donuts
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch each other. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and cooked through. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the donuts in batches.
Adding Toppings
Once the donuts are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. You can choose to leave them plain or add your favorite toppings. Dust them with powdered sugar, sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar, or drizzle them with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and combinations.
Serving and Storing
Donuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them with a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the donuts for longer storage. To reheat frozen donuts, simply place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until they are warmed through.
Conclusion
Making donuts in the air fryer is a simple and healthier way to enjoy this classic treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create delicious donuts in no time. Experiment with different toppings and flavors to find your favorite combination. So why wait? Grab your air fryer and start making your own homemade donuts today!