Air Fryer Yeast Donuts
Soft, pillowy yeast donuts made in the air fryer—coated in cinnamon sugar or dipped in glaze. A bakery-style treat made easy and light.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Donut cutter or round cutters
- Pastry brush
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- For the Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
- 1/2 cup warm milk about 110°F
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- Oil spray for the air fryer basket
- For the Sugar Coating Optional
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- For the Glaze Optional
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Mix warm milk and sugar. Add yeast. Let foam (5–10 minutes).
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Combine butter, egg, salt, and yeast mixture. Add flour gradually. Knead until smooth.
Step 3: Let It Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
- Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with donut cutter.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Place cut donuts on parchment. Cover and rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 6: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Lightly spray basket. Air fry donuts in batches for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 7: Finish with Toppings
- Brush warm donuts with butter and coat in cinnamon sugar, or dip in glaze and let set.
Notes
Best enjoyed warm. Store unglazed leftovers in an airtight container or freeze for later enjoyment.