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Air Fryer Protein Donuts - Light, Fluffy, and Ready Fast

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (120 g) oat flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (45–50 g) vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp fine salt
  • 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/3 cup (80 g) plain Greek yogurt or thick non-dairy yogurt
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado, canola) or melted coconut oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Nonstick spray or a little oil for the donut pan

Instructions

  • Preheat and prep: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) if your model allows it. Lightly grease a silicone or metal donut pan that fits in your basket.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon (if using) until no clumps remain.
  • Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, yogurt, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Combine: Pour wet into dry and fold gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but spoonable. If it’s too thick, add 1–2 tsp milk at a time. Avoid overmixing.
  • Fill the pan: Spoon or pipe batter into the donut wells, filling each about 3/4 full. Smooth the tops with a damp spoon for even rising.
  • Air fry: Place the pan in the air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the donuts are set, spring back to a light touch, and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool: Let donuts rest in the pan for 3 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool. This helps them firm up and stay tender.
  • Glaze (optional): Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts, let the excess drip off, and set on a rack. For a lighter touch, drizzle instead of dipping.
  • Serve: Enjoy slightly warm or at room temperature. They’re great plain, too.