Air-Fried Cake Donuts: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Making cake donuts in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious dessert. Air-fried donuts are healthier than traditionally fried donuts as they require less oil, and they are also a safe option as you can avoid splattering hot oil. You can make cake donuts in an air fryer using simple ingredients and your choice of cake mix, such as vanilla or chocolate. The donuts can be glazed or topped with anything from vanilla frosting and sprinkles to cinnamon sugar. The air fryer basket should be greased to prevent sticking, and the donuts should be cooked for around 6 minutes at 320°F.

Characteristics of Making Cake Donuts in an Air Fryer

Choosing a cake mix

When choosing a cake mix, consider the flavour profile you want to achieve. If you're making donuts for a special occasion, you might want to opt for a more classic flavour like vanilla or chocolate. These flavours are crowd-pleasers and can be easily customized with various toppings. For example, you can top your chocolate cake donuts with vanilla frosting and sprinkles or get adventurous with a s'mores topping, adding graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips.

On the other hand, if you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with unique cake mixes like carrot cake. The beauty of air fryer cake donuts is their versatility, so don't be afraid to get creative and try out different combinations.

Another factor to consider is the colour and visual appeal of your donuts. If you're making donuts for a themed party or holiday, you might want to choose a cake mix that aligns with the colour scheme. For example, red velvet cake mix can be perfect for Valentine's Day donuts, while a funfetti cake mix can add a burst of colour for a birthday celebration.

Additionally, think about any dietary restrictions or preferences you or your guests may have. There are many vegan, gluten-free, and health-conscious cake mixes available on the market today. By choosing one of these options, you can ensure that everyone can enjoy your delicious air fryer cake donuts.

Lastly, don't forget to have fun with your choice! Cake donuts are a treat, and choosing a cake mix is an opportunity to indulge and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you prefer classic flavours or want to explore new combinations, the right cake mix will make your air fryer cake donuts a success!

Preparing the batter

To make the batter for cake donuts in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Butter
• Egg yolks
• Sour cream
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Yeast
• Buttermilk
• Shortening

In a large mixing bowl, press together sugar and butter until crumbly. Add egg yolks and stir until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add a small amount of the flour mixture and sour cream to the sugar-egg mixture, stirring until combined. Then mix in the remaining flour and sour cream.

For a cinnamon-sugar coating, mix together cinnamon and sugar in a separate bowl. For a glaze, you can mix together confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla or cocoa powder, depending on your preference.

If you are using yeast in your batter, it is important to take good care of it. Yeast is a living thing that can be killed at temperatures above 140°F. When heating your milk, use a probe thermometer to check the temperature before adding sugar and yeast—it should be between 105-115°F. This is the ideal temperature range for activating the yeast.

Once your batter is prepared, you can pour it into silicone donut molds and place them into the air fryer basket.

Using a donut pan

Step 1: Prepare the Donut Pan

It's important to start by greasing your donut pan generously with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent your donuts from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove them once they're cooked.

Step 2: Make the Donut Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients, including the flour, baking powder, and any other dry flavorings or additives you wish to include. In a separate bowl, mix together the wet ingredients, such as eggs, butter, milk, or oil. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring continuously until you have a smooth batter. You can also use a premade cake mix and prepare it according to the package instructions.

Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity to about two-thirds full. Make sure not to overfill the pan to avoid any mess and ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Air-Frying the Donuts

Place the filled donut pan into the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time according to your recipe; typically, cake donuts cook at around 320-375 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-6 minutes. Don't overcrowd the air fryer, and cook the donuts in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Cooling and Decorating

Once the donuts are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they're cooling, you can prepare your chosen toppings, such as cinnamon sugar, frosting, or glaze. When the donuts are cool, decorate them as desired.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Your air-fried cake donuts are now ready to serve and enjoy! You can eat them as is, or fill them with your favorite cream or jam. Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.

Air frying the donuts

When it comes to placing the donuts in the air fryer, work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you can cook 1-2 donuts at a time, or you may need to cut them into smaller pieces to fit. Arrange them in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden.

For an extra crispy and indulgent touch, brush the cooked donuts with melted butter before dipping them into your desired coating. You can choose from a variety of toppings, including cinnamon-sugar, vanilla glaze, or chocolate glaze.

It's important to note that air fryer models vary, so you might need to experiment with different temperatures and cooking times to find the perfect setting for your donuts.

Adding toppings

Cinnamon-Sugar

This classic topping is a great way to add some spice and sweetness to your donuts. Simply mix together cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish. Brush your donuts with melted butter and then dip them into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also add a bit of cardamom to the mix for an extra flavour boost.

Vanilla Glaze

For a more indulgent option, try a vanilla glaze. Whisk together confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl. Dip your donuts into the glaze and then place them on a wire rack to cool. This will give your donuts a beautiful, glossy finish.

Chocolate Glaze

For all the chocolate lovers out there, a chocolate glaze is a must. Simply whisk together confectioners' sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and milk in a shallow bowl. Dip your donuts into the glaze and let them cool. You can also add some mini chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolatey treat.

S'mores

Take your donuts on a trip to the campfire with a s'mores topping. Add some graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, and mini chocolate chips. Hold it all together with a chocolate glaze and you've got a s'mores donut that's sure to impress.

Maple Glazed with Bacon Bits

For a savoury and sweet combination, try a maple glaze. Top it off with some air fryer bacon bits for a unique and delicious treat. You can also add some chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Powdered Sugar

For a simple yet elegant option, dust your donuts with some powdered sugar. This classic topping is perfect for those who want a less sweet option. You can also add some sprinkles or chopped nuts to add some colour and texture.

Remember, when it comes to toppings, the only limitation is your imagination! Get creative and experiment with different flavours and combinations. Happy frying!

Frequently asked questions