As the warm scent of vanilla and cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, I can't help but smile at the simplicity of whipping up a batch of Air Fryer Donut Bites. These fluffy delights are not only incredibly easy to make but also offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried treats. In just 23 minutes, you’ll experience the joyous transformation of basic ingredients into adorable, bite-sized morsels that are perfect for any gathering or weekend brunch. Plus, they're freezer-friendly, so you can always have a sweet snack at hand when those cravings hit. Are you ready to indulge in a guilt-free sweet adventure? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are Air Fryer Donut Bites Irresistible?
Deliciously Simple: With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you'll have homemade treats ready in no time.
Healthier Option: These Air Fryer Donut Bites are lighter than traditional donuts, giving you the sweetness without the guilt.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or brunch, everyone will love these bite-sized goodies—just watch them disappear!
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to customize the toppings! Whether you prefer glaze or cinnamon sugar, the choice is yours.
Quick and Easy: In only 23 minutes, your kitchen can fill with the delightful aroma of fresh-baked donuts.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet scrumptious recipe!
Air Fryer Donut Bites Ingredients
You'll love how simple it is to gather these ingredients for your Air Fryer Donut Bites!
For the Donut Bites
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Measure carefully for light and fluffy textures.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder – This is your leavening hero, ensuring the bites rise beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Helps provide that perfect golden color as they cook.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens your donut bites for a delightful treat.
- ½ cup buttermilk – Adds moisture; for a substitute, use milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Introduces richness and depth to your bites.
- 1 large egg – Binds everything together for a perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Cooking spray – Prevents sticking, ensuring your delicious bites come out easily.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet finish; adjust for your preferred sweetness.
- Milk – Helps achieve the right glaze consistency for dipping.
- Vanilla extract – Adds an extra layer of flavor to your glaze.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the coating for that classic donut experience.
- Ground cinnamon – Offers a warm touch that complements the vanilla perfectly.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a batch of delightful Air Fryer Donut Bites that everyone will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Donut Bites
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ¼ teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This combination will ensure that your Air Fryer Donut Bites rise perfectly. Set this dry mix aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate, larger mixing bowl, whisk ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of buttermilk (or your milk and vinegar mixture), 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This creamy base will give your donut bites their delightful flavor.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. It's okay if you see a few lumps in the batter; this will help keep your Air Fryer Donut Bites fluffy. If you prefer a slightly more tender texture, let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes now.
Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer
While your batter rests, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your donut bites cook evenly and become wonderfully golden brown. Give your air fryer a few minutes to heat up to the right temperature before getting ready to cook.
Step 5: Prepare Air Fryer Basket
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This little step will help your Air Fryer Donut Bites release easily after cooking, ensuring they maintain their beautiful shape. Make sure to coat the bottom and sides of the basket evenly.
Step 6: Portion the Batter
Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion the batter into small, bite-sized balls, aiming for about 1 tablespoon of batter for each ball. Carefully place them into the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each batter ball for even cooking.
Step 7: Air Fry the Donut Bites
Air fry the donut bites for 6-8 minutes, checking for a golden brown color and a fluffy appearance. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly when pressed. The aroma wafting from your air fryer will be a delight, signaling the magic is happening inside.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of one of the donut bites. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Air Fryer Donut Bites are ready to be taken out. If not, give them an additional minute or two, but keep a close eye on them.
Step 9: Cool the Bites
Remove the donut bites from the air fryer basket and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. This cooling step ensures they set properly and allows you to handle them without burning your fingers, while also retaining that delightful fluffiness inside.
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth, adjusting the consistency as needed. This creamy glaze will add a luscious finish to your warm Air Fryer Donut Bites, creating a sweet contrast to their fluffy texture.
Step 11: Coat the Donut Bites
In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for a classic coating. While the donut bites are still slightly warm, dip them into the glaze or toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step will impart even more flavor and sweetness.
Step 12: Allow to Set
Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. This will create a beautifully shiny finish on your Air Fryer Donut Bites, making them a treat that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade goodies!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Donut Bites
Delight your senses and elevate your sweet treats by pairing these heavenly bites with the perfect accompaniments!
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Rich Hot Chocolate: This creamy beverage perfectly complements the sweetness of the donut bites, creating a cozy indulgence. The warmth of the chocolate echoes the comforting aroma of your freshly made treats.
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Fresh Berries: Light and refreshing, berries like strawberries or raspberries cut through the sweetness and add a burst of vibrant color to your dessert spread.
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop enhances the richness, making each bite of your donut more decadent. You can even sprinkle some cinnamon on top for a delightful twist.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge in a classic pairing! The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fluffy donut bites.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of your favorite coffee or espresso elevate the sweetness of the donut bites, giving you a delicious balance of taste.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzling with maple syrup adds an extra layer of flavor—sweet without overpowering, it pairs exceptionally well with the vanilla notes in the donut bites.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider evokes comfort and nostalgia, making it a perfect drink pairing for these delightful bites.
Create a flavorful experience to remember, transforming simple Air Fryer Donut Bites into a magnificent dessert spread for everyone to enjoy!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites
Mixing Method: Use a gentle hand when combining wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to dense Air Fryer Donut Bites instead of fluffy ones.
Temperature Check: Ensure your air fryer is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. Underheating can result in soggy bites.
Correct Portioning: Use a small scoop for uniform sizes, ensuring even cooking and delightful presentation. Aim for about 1 tablespoon per bite.
Monitoring Time: Start checking for doneness at 6 minutes. Different air fryer models can vary, and you want to catch them at golden perfection.
Serving Warm: These donut bites are best enjoyed warm. If you need to hold them for a bit, keep them in a low oven until ready to serve.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Donut Bites
Room Temperature: Keep your Air Fryer Donut Bites at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the bites in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Rewarm in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore their fluffy goodness.
Freezer: Freeze the donut bites in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Enjoy them within 2 months for the best taste.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen bites in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Air Fryer Donut Bites Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these treats to your liking!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a friendly twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these bites suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey surprise with every bite.
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Spiced Bliss: Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for an additional layer of warmth and flavor, transforming these bites into seasonal treats.
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Coconut Coating: Roll your warm donut bites in shredded coconut for a tropical flair that adds both crunch and flavor.
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Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a maple syrup glaze for a delightful twist on the classic flavor profile—sweet and rich!
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Jalapeño Heat: For spice lovers, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the batter for a surprising, savory heat that balances the sweetness nicely.
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Stuffed Delights: Fill the center with your favorite jam or Nutella before cooking for a gooey, delicious surprise in every bite.
Let each variation be a delightful surprise and a way to explore new flavors and textures in your kitchen!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Donut Bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately. Simply refrigerate the combined batter in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to indulge, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying. This way, you’ll still achieve those wonderfully fluffy bites with minimal effort, making it easy to whip up delightful treats whenever cravings hit. Enjoy your guilt-free, homemade donuts without the rush!
Air Fryer Donut Bites Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the right buttermilk or substitute?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply mix ½ cup of regular milk with ½ teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This combination will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and yield the same delightful results in your Air Fryer Donut Bites.
What’s the best way to store leftover donut bites?
For optimal freshness, keep your Air Fryer Donut Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, transferring them to the fridge can extend their shelf life to about 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to bring back that fluffy texture!
Can I freeze these donut bites? How?
Very! To freeze your Air Fryer Donut Bites, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until they're solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What can I do if my donut bites come out dense?
If your Air Fryer Donut Bites end up a bit dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Always mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—it's okay to have a few lumps! Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the fluffiness. If in doubt, checking the consistency before air frying can help, too!
Are these donut bites safe for my pets?
No, it's best to keep these Air Fryer Donut Bites away from pets. Ingredients like sugar and vanilla extract can be harmful to dogs and cats in larger quantities. If you’re looking to share some love with your furry friends, consider making a pet-friendly treat specially designed for them instead!
Can I use alternative flours for this recipe?
Yes, you can! If you're looking to experiment with different flavors or dietary restrictions, gluten-free all-purpose flour works well for the Air Fryer Donut Bites. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, so keep an eye on the batter's consistency to achieve that lovely fluffiness.
Irresistibly Good Air Fryer Donut Bites Made Easy
Equipment
- Air fryer
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the Donut Bites
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Measure carefully for light and fluffy textures.
- 1.25 teaspoons baking powder This is your leavening hero, ensuring the bites rise beautifully.
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda Helps provide that perfect golden color as they cook.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar Sweetens your donut bites for a delightful treat.
- 0.5 cup buttermilk Adds moisture; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Introduces richness and depth to your bites.
- 1 large egg Binds everything together for a perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- cooking spray Prevents sticking, ensuring your delicious bites come out easily.
For the Glaze
- powdered sugar Creates a sweet finish; adjust for your preferred sweetness.
- milk Helps achieve the right glaze consistency for dipping.
- vanilla extract Adds an extra layer of flavor to your glaze.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- granulated sugar Sweetens the coating for that classic donut experience.
- ground cinnamon Offers a warm touch that complements the vanilla perfectly.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Portion the batter into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each.
- Air fry the donut bites for 6-8 minutes, checking for golden brown color.
- Insert a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the basket and cool slightly on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth for the glaze.
- In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating.
- While still warm, dip the donut bites in the glaze or toss in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
