Irresistible Homemade Vanilla Bean Air Fryer Donuts: Your Ultimate Guide to Light, Fluffy & Easy Treats
Imagine biting into a warm, soft, and fluffy donut, bursting with the aromatic flavor of vanilla bean, all made from scratch right in your own kitchen. Now, imagine achieving this delectable treat without the mess and added oil of deep frying. Welcome to the wonderful world of air fryer donuts! This comprehensive guide and delicious vanilla bean air fryer doughnuts recipe will show you exactly how to create these delightful pastries, turning your air fryer into a donut-making powerhouse.
Why Air Fryer Donuts Are Your New Favorite Treat
For years, making homemade donuts meant dealing with large amounts of hot oil, a sticky mess, and a lingering fried smell in the kitchen. While traditional deep-fried donuts are undeniably delicious, the air fryer offers a fantastic alternative that’s not only simpler but also results in a lighter, less greasy product. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I really make perfect donuts in my air fryer?”, the answer is a resounding yes!
By opting for the air fryer, you significantly reduce the amount of oil needed, making these donuts a slightly healthier indulgence without sacrificing flavor or that coveted fluffy texture. You get a beautiful golden-brown exterior that hints at the soft, tender crumb inside, much like baking in a conventional oven but with the rapid, even heating of an air fryer. It’s truly a game-changer for homemade baked goods, from air fryer cookies to these incredible donuts.
The air fryer excels at creating yeast doughnuts that are golden brown on the outside and wonderfully soft and fluffy on the inside. This method ensures your donuts are cooked through evenly, with a delicate crust that’s perfect for holding a generous layer of sweet vanilla bean icing. Prepare to satisfy your doughnut cravings with this irresistible vanilla bean air fryer donut recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.
Once you try these homemade air fryer donuts, smothered in a sweet, rich vanilla bean icing, you’ll understand why this cooking method is so revolutionary. They offer all the comfort and deliciousness of a classic donut, but with a lighter feel and simpler preparation. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this tasty air fryer treat!
Ingredients for Homemade Air Fryer Donuts
Crafting the perfect batch of homemade air fryer donuts starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for both the light, yeasted dough and the decadent vanilla bean icing:
For the Doughnuts:
- ½ cup milk: Warmed to 100-110°F (38-43°C). This temperature is crucial for activating the yeast.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (¼ ounce packet): Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for optimal rising.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds sweetness to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the dough, adds richness, and contributes to a tender texture.
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the dough soft and moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: This is where the rich, intense vanilla flavor comes from! It adds those beautiful speckles of vanilla bean too.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for our fluffy donut dough.
For the Vanilla Bean Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
- 3 Tablespoons heavy cream: Adjust as needed to achieve your desired icing consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Reinforces the signature vanilla flavor in the icing.
- Optional: white sprinkles: For a festive and fun finish!
Substitutions & Ingredient Notes
While the recipe calls for specific ingredients to achieve the best flavor and texture, a few substitutions can be made if necessary:
- Vanilla Bean Paste vs. Vanilla Extract: You can absolutely use the same amount of high-quality vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) in place of the vanilla bean paste. However, I highly recommend using vanilla bean paste if you can, as it provides a richer, more complex vanilla flavor and those characteristic beautiful black specks that truly elevate the homemade feel of these donuts.
- Milk: While whole milk is recommended for richness, you can use any milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy milk) that you prefer. Just ensure it’s warmed to the correct temperature.
- Oil: Any neutral-flavored oil like canola oil or sunflower oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
- Heavy Cream for Icing: If you don’t have heavy cream, milk can be used, but start with less as it’s thinner. The heavy cream gives the icing a wonderfully rich and creamy texture.
How to Make Air Fryer Doughnuts with Vanilla Icing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these delightful air fryer donuts is a straightforward process, whether you’re using a stand mixer or mixing by hand. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time:
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment (or a large mixing bowl if kneading by hand with a dough whisk), combine the warmed milk (100-110°F), instant yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the yeast is well combined. Let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. You should see it become frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Next, add the large egg, vegetable oil, and that wonderful vanilla bean paste to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Incorporate Flour & Knead: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the all-purpose flour, about half a cup at a time. Once all the flour is added, increase the speed slightly and continue kneading for approximately 5 minutes. If kneading by hand, continue kneading on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a dough that is smooth, elastic, and just slightly tacky to the touch.
First Rise
- First Proof: Lightly grease a clean bowl with a little vegetable oil. Transfer the dough to the greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot (like a slightly warmed oven that has been turned off, or near a sunny window) to rise for one hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Shaping the Donuts
- Roll and Cut: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out evenly until it is about ½ inch thick. Now, take a doughnut cutter to cut out your donuts. If you don’t have one, a biscuit cutter (about 3 inches) and a small circular object (like a piping tip or a bottle cap) for the center hole work perfectly.
Second Rise & Air Frying
- Second Proof: Carefully transfer the cut doughnuts (and don’t forget the delightful donut holes!) to a silicone or parchment-lined sheet pan. Space them out, allowing room for them to expand. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional hour in a warm, draft-free place. This second rise is crucial for light and airy donuts.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 365°F (185°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Gently place a few donuts in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded and have space between them for even cooking. Air fry in batches for 7-8 minutes, or until they are beautifully deep golden brown on both sides. Flip them halfway through if your air fryer requires it for even browning.
- Cooling: Once cooked, carefully remove the donuts from the air fryer and place them on a wire cooling rack. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and donut holes until all are cooked.
Preparing the Vanilla Bean Icing
- Mix Icing: While the donuts are cooling slightly (they are best iced while still warm), prepare the vanilla bean icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until completely smooth and lump-free. The consistency should be thick enough to coat a spoon but thin enough to drip slightly. Add a tiny bit more cream if it’s too thick, or a little more powdered sugar if too thin.
- Glaze and Serve: Dip each warm donut into the vanilla bean icing, allowing any excess to drip off before placing it back on the wire rack. If desired, immediately add sprinkles before the icing sets. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade air fryer donuts!
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Doughnuts
Achieving bakery-quality donuts at home is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:
- Yeast Activation is Key: Always check your yeast’s expiration date. The milk temperature (100-110°F) is critical; too cold, and the yeast won’t activate; too hot, and it will kill the yeast. A frothy mixture after 5-10 minutes confirms active yeast.
- Don’t Over-Flour: When rolling out the dough, use just enough flour to prevent sticking. Too much flour will result in dry, dense donuts.
- Proper Proofing Environment: A warm, draft-free spot is ideal for rising dough. If your kitchen is cool, try turning your oven on for a minute or two, then turning it off and placing the covered dough inside.
- Handle with Care: After the second rise, the donuts will be delicate. Handle them gently when transferring to the air fryer to avoid deflating them.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Air circulation is vital for even cooking and browning. Cook donuts in batches, leaving space between each one.
- Check for Doneness: Donut holes are great for testing if your air fryer temperature and time are correct before committing to a full batch of larger donuts.
- Warm Icing for Best Results: While not strictly necessary, dipping warm donuts into the icing helps it melt slightly and cling beautifully, creating a thinner, more even coating that sets nicely.
- Embrace Donut Holes: Don’t discard the center cut-outs! Air fry them alongside your donuts for delightful, bite-sized treats. Adjust cooking time as they will cook faster.
Delicious Variations to Try
While vanilla bean is a classic and utterly delicious choice, feel free to experiment with different glazes and toppings to customize your air fryer donuts:
- Classic Glazed: For a simple yet elegant finish, omit the vanilla bean paste from the icing and use just powdered sugar and milk/cream.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Immediately after air frying, brush the warm donuts with melted butter and then toss them in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Chocolate Glaze: Melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Dip warm donuts in this rich chocolate mixture.
- Maple Glaze: Combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup and a splash of milk or cream.
- Sprinkle Extravaganza: After glazing, adorn your donuts with various colorful sprinkles, chopped nuts, toasted coconut flakes, or even mini chocolate chips for extra texture and fun.
- Citrus Glaze: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest and 1-2 tablespoons of fresh juice to your powdered sugar and cream for a bright, tangy topping.
How to Store Your Air Fryer Donuts
These homemade air fryer donuts are truly best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the air fryer. However, if you happen to have any leftovers or want to plan ahead, here’s how to store them:
IN THE FRIDGE: If you have any extra iced donuts, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, warm them gently in the microwave on low power for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them tough.
IN THE FREEZER: You have a couple of options for freezing:
- Unbaked Doughnuts: You can freeze the unbaked, shaped dough for up to three months. After cutting out the doughnuts and donut holes, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top baggie. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the frozen donuts to a parchment-lined sheet pan and let them defrost and rise at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours (or until doubled in size) before air frying as directed.
- Baked (Un-iced) Doughnuts: You can also freeze air-fried donuts before they are iced. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and then warm slightly in the air fryer (at 300°F for 2-3 minutes) or microwave before icing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Donuts
Here are some common questions you might have about making donuts in your air fryer:
- Why are my air fryer donuts dry/tough? This usually happens if the dough was over-floured, over-kneaded, or overcooked. Ensure your dough is soft and slightly tacky, don’t cook for too long, and stick to the recommended temperature.
- Can I use biscuit dough for air fryer donuts? Yes, canned biscuit dough can be a quick shortcut for air fryer donuts! Simply cut holes in the center of refrigerated biscuits and air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. They will have a different texture than yeasted donuts but are still delicious.
- Do I need to flip the donuts in the air fryer? Most air fryers circulate hot air well enough that flipping isn’t strictly necessary for cooking, but it can help achieve a more even golden brown on both sides. Check them halfway and flip if one side is browning faster.
- Can I make these gluten-free? You might be able to substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but results can vary significantly with yeast dough. Look for blends designed for yeast baking.
- How do I prevent donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket? Always preheat your air fryer and generously spray the basket with non-stick spray. You can also use parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers.
More Tasty Donut Recipes to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with homemade donuts, you might also enjoy these other delightful recipes:
- Chocolate Glazed Biscuit Donuts
- Baked Pumpkin Donuts
- Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donuts
Vanilla Bean Air Fryer Doughnuts
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
For the Doughnuts:
- ½ cup milk 100-110 F
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast .25 ounce packet
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Vanilla Bean Icing:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Instructions
For the Doughnuts
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Add the milk (warmed to 100-110 F), instant yeast, and granulated sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment (or into a large bowl if mixing by hand). Mix until well combined and the sugar is dissolved. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to activate the yeast.
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Next, add the egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla bean paste; mix thoroughly until well combined.
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Add the flour gradually with the mixer on low speed. Continue kneading on low speed until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky to the touch – about 5 minutes. If kneading by hand, continue for 8-10 minutes.
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Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and set it aside in a warm, draft-free spot to rise for one hour, or until doubled in size.
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Once risen, gently punch down the dough. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is ½” thick. Use a doughnut cutter (or a biscuit cutter and a small circular object such as a piping tip) to cut out 3-inch doughnuts. Set the doughnuts (and any donut holes you cut out) on a silicone or parchment-lined sheet pan. Cover loosely and allow to rise for an additional hour in a warm place.
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Preheat your air fryer to 365 F (185°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Air fry the doughnuts in batches, a few at a time, for 7-8 minutes, or until they are a deep golden brown. Flip them halfway through if necessary for even browning.
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Place the cooked doughnuts on a cooling rack and repeat with the remaining dough.
For the Vanilla Bean Icing
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In a small bowl, stir to combine the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
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Dip the warm doughnuts in the icing, turning to coat evenly. Place them on a wire rack so that any excess icing can drip off. Add sprinkles if desired before the icing sets. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe?
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of homemade treats! If you whipped up these delicious Air Fryer Vanilla Bean Donuts, I’d love to see your creations and hear what you think.
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This recipe was originally shared on Meal Plan Monday.