Air-Fried Dough: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a popular alternative to deep frying, offering a healthier and more convenient way to cook. But can you make fried dough in an air fryer? The answer is yes, it is possible to make fried dough in an air fryer, and it is a delicious treat! Fried dough is a classic snack, often found at fairs and carnivals, that is loved by people of all ages. It is usually deep-fried, but using an air fryer can reduce the fat content by up to 75% while still achieving a crispy texture. However, one source cautions that the texture may be slightly different and not as soft as traditionally fried dough.

Air fryer fried dough: a healthier alternative to deep-frying

The air fryer has become a popular kitchen appliance, renowned for its ability to cook food with minimal oil. This has prompted many to experiment with different types of dishes, including fried dough. In this article, we will explore how to make fried dough in an air fryer and highlight the benefits of this cooking method.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Fried Dough

Using an air fryer to make fried dough offers several advantages over traditional deep-frying:

• Health Benefits: Air frying significantly reduces the fat and calorie content of fried dough by cutting down on the amount of oil used. It also lessens the formation of harmful compounds that occur when frying foods in heated oil.
• Convenience: Air fryers are quicker and easier to use than traditional deep-frying methods, requiring less clean-up due to the absence of messy oil.
• Taste and Texture: Air-fried fried dough retains the crispy and delicious texture of traditional fried dough, while still achieving the desirable golden-brown color and mouth-watering aroma.

How to Make Fried Dough in an Air Fryer

• Prepare the Dough: Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a smooth dough.
• Shape the Dough: Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch and cut it into your desired shapes.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F to 375°F, depending on the model. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
• Cook the Dough: Place the shaped dough into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
• Serve: Remove the fried dough from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat, or try savoury toppings like garlic salt and grated cheese.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the dough.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Flip the dough halfway through cooking to achieve an even browning on both sides.
• Allow the dough to cool slightly before adding toppings to prevent them from melting or becoming soggy.

Variations and Toppings

The beauty of fried dough is its versatility. Experiment with different types of dough and toppings to find your favourite combinations:

• Dough Variations: Try using whole-wheat flour for added fibre, or substitute coconut oil for shortening to increase healthy fats. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavour.
• Topping Ideas: While powdered sugar and cinnamon sugar are classic choices, feel free to explore other options. Try a savoury twist with garlic salt and grated Parmesan cheese, or indulge in sweet treats like chocolate sauce, Nutella, or fresh berries with whipped cream.

Making fried dough in an air fryer is a healthier and more convenient alternative to traditional deep-frying. It delivers the same delicious taste and texture with significantly less oil and mess. So, go ahead and indulge in this classic treat without the guilt! Experiment with different doughs and toppings to find your perfect air-fried creation.

The benefits of using an air fryer

Yes, you can make fried dough in an air fryer. Here are some benefits of using an air fryer:

Health Benefits

Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep frying, reducing the amount of oil, fat, and calories in your food. Research has linked the oils used in deep frying to health issues such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Air frying can lower the amount of harmful chemicals produced during the frying process, such as acrylamide, which is linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Taste and Texture

Despite using less oil, air fryers still deliver the taste and texture of deep-fried food. They create a crispy, golden-brown exterior and keep the inside soft and juicy. You can achieve the same satisfying crunch without fully submerging your food in oil.

Ease of Use and Convenience

Air fryers are easy to use and clean, making them perfect for busy weeknights. They heat up and cook food faster than traditional ovens. Many air fryers have additional accessories, such as baking pans or grill grates, allowing you to cook a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, meats, and desserts.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryers are more energy-efficient than traditional ovens and stovetops, helping you save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint. They don't require preheating, so you can start cooking immediately.

Versatility

While air fryers are popular for frying, they can also bake, broil, grill, roast, and heat up leftovers. They are suitable for cooking a range of foods, from crispy chicken wings and onion rings to roasted vegetables and desserts like cookies and fruit crisps.

Family-Friendly

Air fryers are a great way to involve the whole family in cooking. They are safe and simple to use, making them perfect for encouraging kids to learn cooking skills and experiment with different flavors.

How to make fried dough in an air fryer

Ingredients and Equipment

To make fried dough in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Milk
• Egg
• Butter
• Oil
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

You will also need an air fryer and a large mixing bowl.

Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a smooth dough forms.

Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes stretchy.

Roll and Cut the Dough: Roll the dough out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Then, use a knife or cookie cutter to cut the dough into small circles or desired shapes.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F-375°F and preheat for a few minutes. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.

Cook the Dough: Place the dough pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the dough is golden brown and crispy.

Serve the Fried Dough: Remove the fried dough from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the dough in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
• Flip the dough halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
• Experiment with different seasonings and toppings, such as cinnamon, garlic salt, or parmesan cheese.
• For a sweet treat, top your fried dough with chocolate sauce, honey, or fruit preserves.

Troubleshooting common problems when making fried dough in an air fryer

Problem: The dough sticks to the air fryer basket.

Solution: To prevent sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or use parchment paper with holes in it. This allows air circulation while preventing the dough from sticking.

Problem: The dough is not cooking evenly or achieving the desired crispy texture.

Solution: Ensure that you are not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, so it is important to leave enough room for proper air circulation. Also, make sure to flip the dough halfway through the cooking time for even browning and cooking.

Problem: The dough is soggy.

Solution: When applying melted butter or other toppings, use a pastry brush to gently coat the fried dough. This ensures that every part of the dough is seasoned without becoming soggy.

Problem: The dough is undercooked or overcooked.

Solution: Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the size and thickness of your dough, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. Start checking a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to prevent overcooking.

Problem: The dough is not holding its shape.

Solution: Use a dough that is dry, sturdy, and holds its shape well. Pizza dough, two-ingredient bagels, and cookie dough are good options for the air fryer.

Different types of fried dough and recipe variations for air frying

There are many different types of fried dough, with variations found in cuisines around the world. Here are some examples of fried dough and their recipes, suitable for air frying:

Churros

A popular fried dough food, churros are long, thin cylinders of deep-fried pastry, often served for breakfast or at local fiestas. They are typically served with thick chocolate paste or white coffee. While traditionally fried, they can also be baked in an air fryer.

Donuts

A classic fried dough food, donuts are found in many variations around the world. They can be round, ring-shaped, or filled with fruit jam or chocolate cream. Donuts are often topped with powdered sugar or filled with custard. While traditionally deep-fried, they can also be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative.

Zeppole

Zeppole are Italian doughnuts or fried dough balls, often filled with custard, jelly, or chocolate cream. They are a popular treat during the Carnival season. While traditionally deep-fried, Zeppole can also be cooked in an air fryer.

Funnel Cakes

Funnel cakes are made by pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil, creating a tangled spaghetti-like arrangement. They are a popular treat at carnivals, fairs, and amusement parks. While traditionally deep-fried, funnel cakes can also be cooked in an air fryer.

Fry Bread

Fry bread is a type of fried dough commonly found in Native American and Métis cuisines. It is a flat, scone-like bread that is fried and served with various toppings, such as honey, cinnamon sugar, or garlic salt. Fry bread can be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Elephant Ears

Elephant ears, also known as palmiers, are massive rounds of fried, yeasted bread dough. They are often served at fairs and carnivals and can be topped with cinnamon sugar, honey, or maple syrup. While traditionally deep-fried, elephant ears can also be cooked in an air fryer.

Fritters

Fritters are a type of fried dough ball made with various ingredients such as bananas, corn, or chickpeas. They are often served as a snack or side dish and can be either sweet or savory. Fritters can be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Beignets

Beignets are French doughnuts, similar to fritters, that are typically square-shaped and topped with powdered sugar. They are often served with café au lait (coffee with milk). While traditionally deep-fried, beignets can also be cooked in an air fryer.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades are Greek doughnuts made of deep-fried dough balls marinated in honey and cinnamon. They are a popular treat during festive seasons and can be served with additional toppings such as chopped nuts or ice cream. Loukoumades can be cooked in an air fryer instead of being deep-fried.

Bánh Rán

Bánh rán, or bánh cam, is a Vietnamese dessert made of glutinous rice balls coated with sesame seeds and filled with sweetened mung bean paste. They are often served during festive occasions and can be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Pasties

Pasties are oblong-shaped fried dough pastries, similar to beaver tails. They are a popular treat in New Orleans and Belgium and are typically covered in confectioner's sugar. Pasties can be cooked in an air fryer instead of being deep-fried.

Sopaipillas

Sopaipillas are a type of fried dough found in Tex-Mex and New Mexican cuisine. They are often served with honey or sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Sopaipillas can be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Struffoli

Struffoli is an Italian fried dough food made of small, honey-coated pastry balls. They are often served during festive occasions and can be topped with additional ingredients such as chopped nuts or dried fruit. Struffoli can be cooked in an air fryer instead of being deep-fried.

Jalebi

Jalebi is a type of fried dough found in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines. It is made of saffron-scented batter, deep-fried, and soaked in sugar syrup. Jalebi can be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Oreilletes

Oreilletes, or orelletes, is a Spanish fried dough food similar to a doughnut. They are often served during festive occasions and can be topped with powdered sugar or filled with cream. Oreilletes can be cooked in an air fryer instead of being deep-fried.

Firi Firi

Firi firi is a Tahitian fried dough treat made with coconut milk and served with jam. It is a popular snack and can be cooked in an air fryer instead of being deep-fried.

Pizza Dough

Pizza dough can be used to make a variety of fried dough foods, such as fried pizza, calzones, or garlic knots. Air-frying pizza dough is a healthier alternative to deep frying and can result in a crispy and delicious treat.

Frequently asked questions