There’s something undeniably enchanting about the smell of freshly baked donuts wafting through the kitchen—it instantly lifts my spirits! Imagine biting into a fluffy donut, delightfully warm and slightly crispy, all while knowing you’ve made it in just a few minutes with only four simple ingredients. That’s exactly what my Easy Air Fryer Donuts deliver—those comforting, sweet bites that are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a guilt-free way to indulge my sweet tooth without the heaviness of traditional frying. The results are surprisingly light yet satisfyingly delicious! These air-fried gems are not only quicker to whip up but also contain significantly less oil, making them a healthier option for anyone looking to skip the fast-food route. Trust me; once you try these donuts, you’ll never look at store-bought options the same way again. Ready to dive into this delightful adventure? Let’s get cooking!

Why Love Easy Air Fryer Donuts?

Easy Air Fryer Donuts are a delightful twist on a classic treat you can whip up in minutes!

Only four ingredients needed, making this recipe accessible for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice.
Healthier choice thanks to air frying, delivering that crispy, golden texture without all the oil—perfect for guilt-free indulgence!
Quick and versatile, ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert—customize with your favorite glazes and toppings.
Crowd-pleasing appeal, sure to impress family and friends with minimal effort.
Fun to make, allowing kids to join in the fun, shaping and decorating their donuts to enjoy.

For more delightful variations, check out our suggestions for toppings and glazes to get those creative juices flowing!

Easy Air Fryer Donut Ingredients

For the Donut Base

Self-Rising Flour – Provides structure and lightness; substitute with all-purpose flour and add a leavening agent if unavailable.
Vanilla Yogurt – Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness; Greek yogurt can offer a thicker and tangier option.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and creates the glaze; adjust to taste if you prefer a less sweet treat.
Water/Milk – Adjusts the glaze’s consistency; opt for milk for a creamier texture.

Feel free to let your creativity shine with your Easy Air Fryer Donuts by experimenting with different toppings and glazes!

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour and vanilla yogurt until a thick dough forms. You can adjust the mixture by adding more flour or yogurt if it’s too sticky or dry.
Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough gently until it’s smooth. Take care not to overwork it, as that could affect the fluffiness of your donuts.
Divide the Dough: Split the dough into 8 equal portions. This ensures each donut is evenly sized for even cooking.
Shape Donuts: Roll each portion into a long shape, sealing the ends of each piece to form your donuts. They should look like traditional donuts, ready for the fryer!
Prepare Air Fryer: Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and make sure to space the donuts apart to allow for proper air circulation while they cook.
Air Fry: Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and cook the donuts for 7-8 minutes, or until they are firm and golden brown.
Cool and Glaze: Allow the donuts to cool slightly, then prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with water or milk until smooth.
Finish with Toppings: Dip each cooled donut into the glaze and add sprinkles if desired. Place them on a wire rack to let the glaze set nicely.

Optional: Drizzle chocolate or caramel over the donuts for an extra delicious touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Room Temperature: Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you need them to last longer, refrigerate the donuts for up to 1 week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts individually in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen Easy Air Fryer Donuts in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Avoid Overcrowding: Space out the donuts in the air fryer to ensure they cook evenly, allowing them to rise and achieve that desired fluffy texture.
Use Accurate Measurements: For best results, weigh your ingredients using a kitchen scale. Precise measurements are key to perfecting your Easy Air Fryer Donuts.
Handle the Dough Gently: Avoid over-kneading to maintain the fluffiness of the donuts. Mix just until it comes together for the best texture.
Perfect Glaze Consistency: Adjust your glaze with water or milk gradually to avoid it being too runny or too thick. You want a smooth dip that coats easily.
Experiment Boldly: Don’t hesitate to personalize your donuts! Adding spices, chocolate chips, or unique toppings can lead to delightful flavor twists that everyone will love.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Air Fryer Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just remove the dough, let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature, and proceed with shaping and air frying as instructed. For even longer storage, you can freeze the shaped donuts (without glazing) for up to 3 days; just thaw overnight in the fridge before air frying. The result? Delicious, fresh donuts that require minimal effort on busy mornings!

What to Serve with Easy Air Fryer Donuts?

Pair these fluffy delights with tantalizing options that elevate your sweet treat experience.

Fresh Fruit: Freshly sliced strawberries or bananas offer a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the donuts beautifully. Their natural juiciness balances the dessert’s richness.
Rich Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee to contrast the sweet indulgence. The boldness of coffee enhances the flavors of the donuts, creating a comforting breakfast duo.
Creamy Yogurt: A side of yogurt adds a refreshing and tangy twist. Its creaminess pairs perfectly with the light, fluffy texture of the donuts, making every bite delightful.
Herbal Tea: Enjoy calming herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat. Its aromatic flavors harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the glazed donuts, making it a perfect pairing for a snack.
Ice Cream Sundae: Transform your donuts into an indulgent dessert! Top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an unforgettable experience.
Milkshake: For a fun twist, serve with a chocolate or vanilla milkshake. The creamy texture and flavors create a deliciously decadent accompaniment to your air-fried treats.

Consider these delightful pairings to make your Easy Air Fryer Donuts a centerpiece of joy at any meal!

Easy Air Fryer Donuts Variations

Customize your Easy Air Fryer Donuts with these delightful variations that elevate every bite!

Chocolate Chips: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise that’ll melt in your mouth. It’s like a treat in a treat!
Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a nostalgic, cozy flavor that’s hard to resist. You’ll feel like you just walked into a bakery!
Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into the dough for an added crunch and robust flavor. Almonds or walnuts pair wonderfully, creating a delicious contrast to the softness.
Fruity Twist: Fold in some mashed bananas or applesauce for a natural sweetness and a hint of fruitiness. It lends a moist texture, making each bite even more delightful.
Zesty Lemon Glaze: Brighten up the glaze with fresh lemon juice and zest for a tangy, refreshing finish that wakes up your palate. It’s like sunshine in every bite!
Maple Glaze: Swap the powdered sugar in your glaze for pure maple syrup for a rich, deep sweetness that complements the donuts beautifully. Perfect for fall!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough or glaze for a delightful surprise of heat. It’s a fun twist for those who enjoy a little spice in their sweets.
Coconut Flakes: Mix in or use coconut flakes as a topping to create a tropical flair. Pairing it with a creamy glaze makes it feel like a getaway treat!

Easy Air Fryer Donuts Recipe FAQs

What is the best type of flour to use for Easy Air Fryer Donuts?
I recommend using self-rising flour for that perfect airy texture. If you don’t have any, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour and additionally add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder per cup to achieve similar results.

How should I store leftover Easy Air Fryer Donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week—just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze Easy Air Fryer Donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 3–4 minutes.

What if my donut dough is too sticky or dry?
If you find your dough too sticky, add a little more self-rising flour, a tablespoon at a time until you reach the right consistency. Conversely, if the dough is too dry, incorporate more vanilla yogurt gradually until it forms a thick, workable dough.

Are there any dietary considerations for Easy Air Fryer Donuts?
Yes! For those with allergies, substitute the vanilla yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, like a coconut or almond yogurt. This recipe is naturally egg-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. If you have nut allergies, ensure to choose toppings and glazes that align with your requirements.

How do I make the glaze for my Easy Air Fryer Donuts?
For a simple glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk or water in a bowl until smooth. Dip each cooled donut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off, and set them on a wire rack to let the glaze firm up. You can adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or liquid as needed!