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Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts - featured image

Light, crispy, and perfectly sweet donuts made easily in the air fryer with simple pantry ingredients. These homemade treats offer a healthier twist on traditional fried donuts with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • ½ cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spoon or spatula until just combined. The batter should be thick but smooth with a few lumps.
  5. If using a donut pan or silicone mold, lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. Spoon the batter evenly into the molds, filling about ¾ full. Otherwise, drop spoonfuls on parchment paper and shape into rings by hand.
  6. Carefully place the molds or shaped donuts into the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and springy to the touch. Check around minute 7 to avoid overcooking.
  7. While donuts cook, mix ½ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
  8. As soon as donuts come out of the air fryer and are still warm, toss them gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
  9. Place donuts on a wire rack or plate to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm but not piping hot.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep donuts tender. Use room temperature ingredients for better rise. Flip donuts halfway through cooking for even browning. Toss donuts in cinnamon sugar while warm for best coating adhesion. If air fryer runs hot, start checking at 7 minutes to avoid drying out. When shaping by hand, keep hands lightly floured to prevent sticking. Donuts are best served warm and fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerated for 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer donuts, cinnamon sugar donuts, crispy donuts, homemade donuts, easy donut recipe, quick donuts, air fryer dessert