Introduction to Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
I know how unpredictable life can be, especially when it comes to meals and treats! That’s why these Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are a game changer for me. They combine the joy of baking with the convenience of an air fryer, making them the perfect quick solution for a hectic day or a delightful surprise for loved ones. Imagine fluffy, flavorful donuts, bursting with fresh blueberries, ready in just 25 minutes! This recipe is not just about ease—it’s about bringing a little sweetness into your everyday life, without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
These Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are unbelievably easy to whip up—a true blessing on those busy mornings! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious treat in no time. The air fryer gives them that perfectly fluffy texture while keeping them healthier than their fried counterparts. Plus, the delightful pop of fresh blueberries in every bite is simply irresistible, making these donuts not just a snack, but a moment of joy in your day.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to bring these delightful Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts to life:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of any donut, providing structure and fluffiness.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetens your donuts and helps them achieve that golden crust.
- Baking powder: A must-have leavening agent to make your donuts rise perfectly!
- Fine sea salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors—don’t skip it!
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness; you can swap it for almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Large egg: It binds everything together while adding moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Melted unsalted butter: Adds flavor and a tender crumb; can be substituted with coconut oil for a different vibe.
- Pure vanilla extract: Infuses your donuts with that comforting aroma and flavor; pure is always best!
- Fresh blueberries: The star ingredient! Their juicy burst is what makes these donuts special. If fresh isn’t available, frozen can work in a pinch—but thaw and drain them first.
- Powdered sugar: For the glaze that tops your donuts; it creates a sweet finishing touch.
- Milk (for the glaze): Just a splash to loosen the powdered sugar for drizzling or dipping.
- Pure vanilla extract (for the glaze): Just a hint adds depth to your glaze—don’t forget it!
Check the end of this article for precise measurements and a printable version of the ingredient list. Happy cooking!
How to Make Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
Making these Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts is as delightful as eating them! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a sweet treat before you know it. Let’s get started!
Preheat Your Air Fryer
First things first—let’s preheat that air fryer to 160°C! This step is crucial as it ensures an even cook, leading to donuts that are fluffy and light. A properly preheated air fryer helps to achieve that enticing golden color and perfect texture.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed. This process is key because it avoids clumps and ensures even rising. Remember, this is the base for your delicious donuts!
Blend Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large egg, melted butter, and pure vanilla extract. Make sure to mix them thoroughly until fully combined. This creates a smooth and creamy texture that contributes to your donut batter’s overall consistency. Trust me, a well-blended mixture is the secret to tenderness!
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry mixtures together. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until you see no dry flour! Overmixing can lead to tough donuts, and nobody wants that!
Fold in the Blueberries
Here comes the best part! Toss the fresh blueberries in a teaspoon of flour, and gently fold them into your batter. This flour coating helps the blueberries stay suspended in the batter. Remember, a gentle touch is essential here; we want those blueberries to shine without breaking apart!
Prepare Donut Molds
Lightly grease your silicone donut molds. This step is important for easy removal later on. Spoon the batter into each cavity, filling them about three-quarters full. Filling them just right allows room for the donuts to rise, so they don’t overflow!
Air Fry the Donuts
Carefully place the molds into the air fryer basket. Cook the donuts at 160°C for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and springy to the touch. If you’re unsure, a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean!
Prepare the Glaze
While your donuts are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla extract in a small bowl. This glaze is what takes your donuts to the next level. It adds a sweet finish with an unmistakable flavor that complements those blueberries beautifully!
Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled for a few minutes, it’s time to glaze! You can either dip them into the glaze for a thick coating or drizzle over the top for a lighter touch. Let the glaze set for a bit before serving to avoid a slippery mess. The anticipation makes them all the sweeter!
Tips for Success
- Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it keeps your donuts tender and fluffy.
- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Let your donuts cool before glazing to prevent sliding.
- Experiment with different extracts like almond for a unique flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Air Fryer: The star of the show! Any model will do, but a compact one works well for small batches.
- Mixing Bowls: Use two medium-sized bowls for combining ingredients; one for wet and one for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: A simple whisk helps blend your wet ingredients smoothly.
- Silicone Donut Molds: Alternatives can include muffin tins, but molds help achieve that classic donut shape.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key! However, you can get creative with your eyeball measuring if you’re feeling adventurous.
Variations on Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
- Chocolate Chip Donuts: Swap out some blueberries for mini chocolate chips for a sweeter twist on the classic!
- Whole Wheat Donuts: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a heartier, healthier version—perfect for a nutritious breakfast!
- Lemon Blueberry Donuts: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens every bite!
- Vegan Blueberry Donuts: Replace the egg with a flax egg and substitute almond milk for dairy-free donuts everyone can enjoy!
- Spiced Donuts: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a cozy, warming flavor that’s perfect for fall!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast experience.
- Serve with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a colorful, nutritious side.
- For a brunch gathering, arrange them on a decorative platter, drizzled with extra glaze for a touch of elegance.
- Try adding a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat!
FAQs about Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
As I’ve baked these Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts countless times, I’ve gathered some common questions that might cross your mind. Here are some answers to help you out!
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
You can definitely use frozen blueberries! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. Tossing them in a bit of flour before folding them in keeps them from sinking. Trust me, they’ll still taste marvelous!
How do I know when my donuts are done?
Your donuts are done when they turn golden brown and feel springy when touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. No one likes a doughy surprise!
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using to bring back that silky consistency.
What’s the best way to store leftover donuts?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. For longer freshness, pop them in the fridge, but keep in mind they may lose a bit of their delightful fluffiness.
Can I make these donuts without an air fryer?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-18 minutes. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts is about more than just satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about making moments with family just a bit more special. The joy of pulling these fluffy, golden treats from the air fryer never gets old. Whether it’s a weekday breakfast or a weekend brunch, these donuts add a sprinkle of joy to any occasion. Plus, knowing they’re simple to whip up means I can bring happiness without the hassle. So grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and indulge in a sweet escape—you deserve it!
Print
Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts: Irresistibly Quick Delight!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are a quick and delicious treat, perfectly fluffy and bursting with fresh blueberries, topped with a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
- 130 grams all-purpose flour
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 80 milliliters whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 75 grams fresh blueberries, tossed with 1 teaspoon flour
- 90 grams powdered sugar
- 22 milliliters milk (for glaze)
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 160°C for 3 to 5 minutes.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk to evenly distribute.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Gently fold in the blueberries coated in flour, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Lightly grease silicone donut molds. Spoon the batter into the prepared molds, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
- Arrange the molds in the air fryer basket. Cook at 160°C for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden and springy to the touch.
- Allow donuts to cool in the molds for several minutes before unmolding to maintain shape.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip each cooled donut into the glaze or drizzle over the top, then set aside briefly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep donuts tender.
- For best results, use fresh blueberries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
