Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: A Simple & Delicious Recipe
Are you craving warm, fluffy doughnuts without the guilt of deep frying? Look no further! These air fryer cinnamon sugar doughnuts are the perfect solution. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. This recipe delivers that classic doughnut flavor and texture, all while using significantly less oil. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this simple and satisfying treat.
Why Air Fry Doughnuts?
The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for doughnut lovers:
* **Healthier:** Air frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, requiring minimal oil. This significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional deep-fried doughnuts.
* **Faster:** Air fryers preheat quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens. You’ll have warm doughnuts ready in minutes!
* **Easy Clean-Up:** No more messy oil splatters! Air fryers are generally easy to clean, with removable baskets that can often be washed in the dishwasher.
* **Crispy Texture:** Air frying creates a wonderfully crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy, mimicking the texture of deep-fried doughnuts.
* **Convenient:** Air fryers are compact and countertop-friendly, making them a great option for small kitchens or when you don’t want to heat up the entire oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry:
**For the Doughnuts:**
* 1 can (16 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands! or similar)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
**For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:**
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
**Optional Glaze (for extra indulgence):**
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
* Air Fryer
* Small bowl (for melted butter)
* Shallow dish or plate (for cinnamon sugar)
* Pastry brush (optional, for brushing melted butter)
* Small bowl (for glaze, if making)
* Wire rack (for cooling, optional)
* Parchment paper or silicone liner (optional, to prevent sticking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make delicious air fryer cinnamon sugar doughnuts:
**1. Prepare the Doughnut Holes (or Shapes):**
* Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Gently separate each biscuit.
* **For Doughnut Holes:** Use a small round cookie cutter (about 1 inch in diameter) or a bottle cap to cut a hole in the center of each biscuit. You can re-roll the center pieces to make additional smaller doughnut holes, or simply bake them as is.
* **For Regular Doughnuts:** If you prefer regular doughnut shapes, you can skip cutting the holes. You can also gently flatten each biscuit slightly for a more traditional doughnut shape.
* **For Doughnut Twists/Knots:** Gently stretch or roll each biscuit into a long rope. Twist or tie the rope into a knot.
**2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:**
* In a shallow dish or plate, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well until evenly distributed.
**3. Melt the Butter:**
* In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until completely melted.
**4. Air Fry the Doughnuts:**
* Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes. While preheating is optional for some air fryers, it helps ensure even cooking and a crispier exterior.
* Optional: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a silicone liner to prevent sticking. Make sure the liner is properly sized and does not block airflow.
* Place the doughnut holes (or shaped doughnuts) in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Work in batches if necessary.
* Air fry for 4-6 minutes, or until the doughnuts are golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time will vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the doughnuts. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
**5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:**
* Immediately after removing the doughnuts from the air fryer, brush them with melted butter (if using; this helps the cinnamon sugar stick better). Alternatively, you can dip the doughnuts in the melted butter.
* Then, immediately toss or roll the doughnuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.
**6. Make the Optional Glaze (if desired):**
* While the doughnuts are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add more milk or cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
**7. Glaze and Serve:**
* If using the glaze, drizzle it over the warm doughnuts. You can also dip the doughnuts into the glaze.
* Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
* Serve the doughnuts warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Doughnuts
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer:** Overcrowding the air fryer will result in unevenly cooked doughnuts. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring there’s space for air to circulate around each doughnut.
* **Adjust Cooking Time as Needed:** Air fryers vary, so keep a close eye on the doughnuts and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Start with the recommended time and add a minute or two if needed.
* **Use Fresh Biscuit Dough:** For the best results, use fresh biscuit dough that is not expired. The dough should be firm and not sticky.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked doughnuts will be dry and tough. Aim for a golden brown color and a slightly firm texture.
* **Brush with Butter Immediately:** Brushing the doughnuts with melted butter immediately after air frying helps the cinnamon sugar adhere better and adds a richer flavor.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
* **Store Leftovers Properly:** Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh.
Variations and Additions
Want to customize your air fryer doughnuts? Here are some fun variations:
* **Chocolate Doughnuts:** Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cinnamon sugar mixture for chocolate cinnamon doughnuts. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the doughnuts instead of a glaze.
* **Apple Pie Doughnuts:** Add 1/4 teaspoon of apple pie spice to the cinnamon sugar mixture. You can also top the doughnuts with a simple apple pie filling made with cooked apples, cinnamon, and sugar.
* **Lemon Doughnuts:** Add the zest of one lemon to the cinnamon sugar mixture or to the glaze for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Maple Glazed Doughnuts:** Replace the vanilla extract in the glaze with maple extract and add a tablespoon of maple syrup for a delicious maple glaze.
* **Nutella Doughnuts:** Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the warm doughnuts after air frying.
* **Powdered Sugar Doughnuts:** Skip the cinnamon sugar and simply dust the warm doughnuts with powdered sugar.
* **Use Different Extracts:** Experiment with different extracts in the glaze, such as almond, coconut, or peppermint.
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer cinnamon sugar doughnuts are perfect for:
* **Breakfast or Brunch:** Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk for a sweet and satisfying start to the day.
* **Dessert:** Serve them as a simple and delicious dessert after a meal.
* **Snack:** Satisfy your afternoon cravings with a warm and fluffy doughnut.
* **Parties and Gatherings:** They’re a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for sharing.
* **Holidays:** Make them for special occasions like Christmas, Easter, or birthdays.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the brand of biscuit dough used and the amount of cinnamon sugar applied.*
* Calories: Approximately 150-200 per doughnut
* Fat: 7-10 grams
* Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
* Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
* Sodium: 200-250 mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
* Sugar: 10-15 grams
* Protein: 2-3 grams
Air Fryer Considerations
Different air fryer models may vary slightly in temperature and cooking time. It is important to monitor your doughnuts closely and adjust the cooking time accordingly. If your air fryer tends to run hot, you may need to lower the temperature slightly or reduce the cooking time.
If you find that your doughnuts are browning too quickly, you can tent them with a piece of aluminum foil during the last few minutes of cooking. This will help to prevent them from burning.
Make sure to clean your air fryer basket after each use to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshooting
* **Doughnuts are not cooking evenly:** Make sure you are not overcrowding the air fryer basket and that the doughnuts are evenly spaced. You may also need to flip the doughnuts halfway through cooking.
* **Doughnuts are dry:** Avoid overcooking the doughnuts. Reduce the cooking time slightly or lower the temperature.
* **Cinnamon sugar is not sticking:** Make sure to brush the doughnuts with melted butter immediately after air frying. The butter helps the cinnamon sugar adhere better.
* **Doughnuts are burning:** Lower the temperature of your air fryer or reduce the cooking time. You can also tent the doughnuts with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of cooking.
Why This Recipe Works
This air fryer cinnamon sugar doughnut recipe is a winner because it’s:
* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 20 minutes, from start to finish.
* **Delicious:** Offers that classic doughnut taste and texture without the deep-fried guilt.
* **Customizable:** Easily adaptable to your preferences with various toppings and variations.
* **Healthier:** Uses significantly less oil than traditional deep-fried doughnuts.
* **Foolproof:** Simple instructions and readily available ingredients make this recipe accessible to all skill levels.
Final Thoughts
These air fryer cinnamon sugar doughnuts are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt of traditional deep-fried doughnuts. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a warm, fluffy, and incredibly delicious treat! You will not be disappointed!