Name: Air Fryer Glazed Donuts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 2 h 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Donuts:; 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast (1 packet); 1/4 cup warm water; 3/4 cup warm evaporated milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk; 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted; 1/4 cup vegetable shortening, room temperature; 3 cups cake flour, spooned and leveled; For the Glaze:; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons light corn syrup; 2 tablespoons evaporated milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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These Air Fryer Glazed Donuts are my idea of the perfect weekend treat—light and fluffy on the inside, with a slightly crisp exterior and a silky vanilla glaze that melts into every bite. Made with pantry staples and no deep frying required, they’re a fun and satisfying baking project that’s surprisingly simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers classic donut-shop flavor without the hassle or mess of deep frying. The air fryer gives them a tender texture with golden edges, while the vanilla glaze adds that familiar sweetness. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these donuts always hit the spot. Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Donuts

Yeast (2¼ teaspoons / 1 packet)
Warm water (¼ cup)
Warm evaporated milk (¾ cup)
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon)
Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon)
Large egg (1)
Large egg yolk (1)
Salted butter, melted (2 tablespoons)
Vegetable shortening, room temperature (¼ cup)
Cake flour, spooned and leveled (3 cups)

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar (3 cups)
Whole milk (¼ cup)
Light corn syrup (2 tablespoons)
Evaporated milk (2 tablespoons)
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)

Directions

I start by mixing warm water and yeast in a large bowl or stand mixer. I let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
I add warm evaporated milk, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, salt, egg, egg yolk, melted butter, shortening, and flour. I mix on low until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
I cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
Once risen, I turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to 1 inch thick. I cut out donut shapes using a donut cutter and place them on a baking sheet.
I cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, I preheat the air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
I line the air fryer basket with foil and spray it with coconut oil. I arrange the donuts with space between and air fry in batches for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then I transfer them to a wire rack.
While the donuts cook, I whisk all the glaze ingredients in a bowl and warm it in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes. I return the glaze to the bowl.
Once the donuts are warm, I dip each one into the glaze, then place it back on the rack to let the excess drip off and the glaze set.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 donuts.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 18 minutes
Proof time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 18 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a touch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for extra depth.
For a chocolate version, I dip the donuts in a chocolate glaze instead.
I top them with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or coconut for a festive touch.
To make filled donuts, I skip the center hole and pipe in jam or custard after cooking.

storage/reheating

I store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them in the air fryer or microwave for about 10–15 seconds. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but the glaze helps keep them moist even the next day.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, I’ve used all-purpose flour in a pinch. The texture is a bit more dense, but still delicious.

How do I make sure the donuts stay soft?

Letting the dough rise properly and not overbaking in the air fryer are key. I also avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I skip the shortening?

I’ve replaced it with more butter before, but shortening helps keep the donuts extra tender. Use solid coconut oil as a substitute if needed.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and a nicely browned exterior.

Can I freeze the donuts?

I freeze unglazed, cooked donuts for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, I thaw and reheat them, then glaze fresh.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Glazed Donuts are everything I love in a homemade treat—easy, rewarding, and downright delicious. With their light texture and sweet vanilla finish, they’re just the thing when I want a bakery-style indulgence made right in my kitchen.