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Air Fryer Mini Donuts - Quick, Fun, and Delicious

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp fine salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for batter)
  • 1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Oil spray (neutral, for the basket)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for at least 3–4 minutes. A hot basket helps the donuts puff and brown evenly.
  • Mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using) until combined.
  • Combine the wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Make the batter. Pour wet ingredients into dry. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine.
  • Prep the air fryer basket. Lightly mist the basket with oil spray. Avoid heavy spraying to prevent sticky residue.
  • Portion the donuts. Transfer batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner cut. Pipe small rings (about 1 1/2 inches wide) onto parchment paper rounds or into silicone donut molds made for the air fryer. Leave space between each donut.
  • Air fry in batches. Cook 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway if not using molds. Donuts should be puffed and lightly golden. They’re done when a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Coat or glaze. For cinnamon sugar, brush donuts with melted butter and toss in the sugar-cinnamon mix while warm. For glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, then dip cooled donuts and let set.
  • Serve warm. Enjoy right away for the best texture—soft inside with a delicate crust.