Craving a sweet treat that’s both guilt-free and incredibly easy to make? Look no further than these vegan air fryer doughnuts! Honestly, I was a bit skeptical at first. Could air fryer doughnuts really compare to the real deal? Well, let me tell you, they exceeded all expectations! My family, who are usually die-hard fans of traditional fried doughnuts, devoured these in minutes. The texture is surprisingly light and fluffy, with a satisfyingly crisp exterior, all without a drop of oil from deep frying. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a healthier, quicker, and equally delicious doughnut fix. Get ready to be amazed at how simple it is to create these delightful vegan air fryer doughnuts right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, forms the base of the doughnut dough providing structure.
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup, adds sweetness to the doughnuts and helps with browning.
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons, the leavening agent that makes the doughnuts light and airy.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Non-Dairy Milk (Almond, Soy, Oat): ¾ cup, provides moisture and binds the dough together, choose your favorite for flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon, reacts with baking powder to create extra lift and a slightly tangy flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
• Vegan Butter, Melted: 2 tablespoons, adds richness and moisture to the dough, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Cooking Spray (Oil or Vegan Butter): For greasing the air fryer basket, prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Optional Glaze Ingredients: Powdered sugar, non-dairy milk, vanilla extract, sprinkles – for adding extra sweetness and decoration.

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to prevent pockets of baking powder in the dough. This step is crucial for even leavening.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or directly into the dry ingredients, pour in the non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, and melted vegan butter. The vinegar might react slightly with the milk, which is perfectly normal and part of the process.
3. Mix to Form Dough: Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough doughnuts. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
4. Turn Out and Knead Lightly: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Gently knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes. Kneading helps to bring the dough together and smooth it out. Avoid excessive kneading to keep the doughnuts tender.
5. Roll Out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Maintain a consistent thickness for even cooking. If the dough is too thin, the doughnuts might become dry; if too thick, they might not cook through properly in the air fryer.
6. Cut Out Doughnuts: Use a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cookie cutters (or even a glass and a bottle cap) to cut out doughnut shapes. The classic doughnut shape has a hole in the center. You can also make doughnut holes from the center cutouts and any leftover dough scraps.
7. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray (oil or vegan butter). This prevents the doughnuts from sticking and ensures they release easily after cooking.
8. Place Doughnuts in Air Fryer: Carefully place the doughnut shapes in the prepared air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each doughnut to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Do not overcrowd the basket; you might need to cook in batches.
9. Air Fry the Doughnuts: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry the doughnuts for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through, around the 3-4 minute mark. Keep a close eye on them as air fryers can vary. They should be golden brown and cooked through. Flipping ensures even browning on both sides.
10. Check for Doneness: To check if the doughnuts are cooked through, gently insert a toothpick into the center of a doughnut. If it comes out clean, they are ready. If it’s still doughy, air fry for another minute or two, checking frequently.
11. Cool Slightly: Once cooked, carefully remove the doughnuts from the air fryer basket and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottoms from getting soggy.
12. Glaze (Optional): While the doughnuts are cooling, prepare your glaze if desired. For a simple glaze, whisk together powdered sugar with a little non-dairy milk and vanilla extract until you reach your desired consistency. Dip the slightly cooled doughnuts into the glaze and add sprinkles or other toppings if desired.
13. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the vegan air fryer doughnuts warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: Approximately 6-8 doughnuts (depending on size)
Calories Per Serving (per doughnut, approximate, without glaze): 200-250 kcal

• Fat: 8-10g
• Saturated Fat: 2-3g

Please note: Nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, doughnut size, and glaze.

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

This includes:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (gathering ingredients, mixing dough, rolling and cutting)
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes per batch (air frying)
• Cooling & Glazing Time: 10-12 minutes

This recipe is quick and perfect for satisfying a doughnut craving without spending hours in the kitchen!

How to Serve

These vegan air fryer doughnuts are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a variety of toppings and accompaniments:

Glaze Variations:

• Classic Powdered Sugar Glaze: Simple and sweet, made with powdered sugar and non-dairy milk.
• Chocolate Glaze: Melt vegan chocolate chips with a little non-dairy milk for a rich chocolatey coating.
• Maple Glaze: Combine powdered sugar with maple syrup and a touch of non-dairy milk for a warm maple flavor.
• Lemon Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for a tangy and refreshing glaze.
• Strawberry Glaze: Blend fresh or frozen strawberries with powdered sugar for a fruity pink glaze.

Toppings:

• Sprinkles: Rainbow sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or themed sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Chopped Nuts: Almonds, pecans, walnuts, or peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted or untoasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
• Vegan Chocolate Shavings: For extra chocolate indulgence.
• Fresh Fruit: Sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or bananas for a healthier topping.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A classic combination of cinnamon and sugar for a warm and comforting flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Warm with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a warm doughnut with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a delightful treat.
• Dessert Platter: Add these doughnuts to a vegan dessert platter with other sweets like cookies and brownies.
• Brunch Spread: Include them in a vegan brunch spread alongside savory dishes for a balanced meal.
• Kid-Friendly Snack: These are a hit with kids and make a fun and healthier snack option.
• Party Treat: Perfect for parties and gatherings, easy to make in larger batches.

Additional Tips

Creating the perfect vegan doughnuts is as much about technique as it is about ingredients. To help you achieve a batch that’s fluffy, flavorful, and visually appealing, consider these additional tips that will enhance your doughnut-making experience:

Don’t Overmix the Dough

One of the most crucial aspects of making doughnuts is to avoid overmixing your dough. When you mix the ingredients, you are activating the gluten in the flour. While gluten is essential for giving baked goods structure, too much gluten development can lead to tough and chewy doughnuts instead of the light, airy texture you desire. To achieve the perfect consistency, mix the ingredients just until they are combined. You want to see a few lumps in the dough; this is a sign that you haven’t overworked it. Remember, gentle handling goes a long way in ensuring a tender doughnut.

Chill the Dough (Optional)

If you find that your dough is excessively sticky and difficult to work with, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This optional step can make a significant difference in both the handling and final texture of your doughnuts. Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to roll out and cut without sticking to your work surface or hands. If you decide to chill, just be mindful not to leave it in the fridge too long; otherwise, it may become too firm and difficult to roll out.

Use Cold Ingredients

In line with the previous tip, using cold ingredients can substantially improve your doughnut-making process. Opt for cold non-dairy milk and vegan butter right from the fridge. Cold ingredients can help manage the stickiness of the dough and also minimize the development of gluten, which is key to keeping your doughnuts tender. This is especially important in warmer kitchens where dough can become overly soft and unmanageable.

Dust Your Work Surface and Rolling Pin

To prevent the dough from sticking during the rolling process, it’s essential to dust your work surface and rolling pin lightly with flour. This not only facilitates easier handling but also allows you to roll the dough to the desired thickness without it clinging to the surface. Be sure to re-flour your work surface and rolling pin as necessary, especially if you notice that the dough is starting to stick again. A well-floured surface is your ally in achieving perfectly shaped doughnuts.

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer

When it comes to air frying your doughnuts, patience is key. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Leaving space between each doughnut allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring that each piece cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. If your air fryer has limited capacity, it’s better to cook in smaller batches rather than cramming them in all at once. This extra step can greatly enhance the overall texture and appearance of your finished doughnuts.

Adjust Cooking Time as Needed

Air fryers can vary significantly in their performance, which means that cooking times may need slight adjustments based on the model you are using. Keep a close eye on your doughnuts as they cook; you’re looking for that perfect golden-brown exterior. Start with the recommended time but be prepared to adjust it. If they are not browning as expected, add a few extra minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Remember, the doughnuts are done when they are golden on the outside and cooked through in the center.

Reheat Leftover Doughnuts

If you find yourself with leftover doughnuts, don’t despair! You can easily revive them by reheating in the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and heat the doughnuts for 1-2 minutes. This will refresh them, restoring some of their initial warmth and slight crispness. Just be cautious not to overheat them, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Experiment with Flavors

Don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors! The basic doughnut recipe is a great canvas for a variety of taste profiles. Consider adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a warm, aromatic touch. Incorporating citrus zest—lemon, orange, or lime—can bring a refreshing brightness to your doughnuts. For an added depth of flavor, try incorporating extracts like almond, vanilla, or even peppermint. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different flavors can lead to delightful surprises!

By incorporating these tips into your doughnut-making process, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious vegan doughnuts that are sure to impress both friends and family. Happy frying!

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or another binder to help with structure. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.

Q2: Can I use regular milk instead of non-dairy milk?

A: This recipe is designed to be vegan, so using non-dairy milk is recommended. However, if you are not strictly vegan, you can substitute with regular dairy milk. Keep in mind that using dairy milk will change the recipe from vegan to vegetarian.

Q3: My dough is too sticky, what should I do?

A: If your dough is too sticky to handle, try these tips:
* Add a little more flour: Gradually add a tablespoon of flour at a time, mixing gently until the dough is more manageable but still slightly soft. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the doughnuts tough.
* Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Chilling will firm up the dough and make it easier to roll and cut.
* Flour your work surface generously: Ensure your work surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking.

Q4: Can I bake these doughnuts in the oven instead of air frying?

A: While this recipe is optimized for air frying, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. The texture will be slightly different compared to air frying, as oven-baked doughnuts will be less crispy.

Q5: How do I store leftover air fryer doughnuts?

A: Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.

Q6: Can I make doughnut holes with the center cutouts?

A: Absolutely! Don’t waste those center cutouts! Air fry the doughnut holes along with the doughnuts, but for a shorter time, around 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. They make perfect bite-sized treats.

Q7: What if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?

A: No doughnut cutter? No problem! You can use two different-sized round cookie cutters, or even improvise with household items. For the larger circle, use a wide-rimmed glass or jar lid. For the smaller center hole, use a bottle cap or a smaller cookie cutter.

Q8: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to make the doughnuts, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly before rolling and cutting. This makes it convenient to prepare the dough in advance and air fry fresh doughnuts later.

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