Introduction to Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
If you’re like me, juggling a busy life full of responsibilities, the idea of baking can seem like a daunting task. But fear not! These Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are here to rescue our mornings. They marry the sweetness of fresh blueberries with a light, fluffy texture, perfect for impressing your family or indulging yourself. With just a bit of prep time, you can create these delightful treats that are quick, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. Trust me, this recipe will become your go-to for when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
These Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are not just a treat; they’re a game changer for busy days. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up a batch in just 25 minutes. The best part? They are light, fluffy, and bursting with juicy blueberries, making every bite a delight. Plus, there’s no guilt here! Air frying means you can enjoy a delightful dessert with less oil and fewer calories!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
To create these scrumptious Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts, you’ll need a handful of simple yet vital ingredients. Each one brings a special touch to the recipe, crafting that perfect bite:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of our donuts, providing structure and fluffiness. You can experiment with cake flour for an even lighter texture!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential! It elevates the flavor of the donuts and helps create a lovely golden color. For a healthier option, use coconut sugar.
- Baking powder: This little miracle worker helps our donuts rise and become light. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
- Fine sea salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in our donuts and balances the sweetness.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness. You can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Large egg: This binds the ingredients together and helps the donuts rise. If you’re vegan, use a flax egg instead!
- Melted unsalted butter: It adds a lovely richness and flavor. You could opt for melted coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Pure vanilla extract: This fragrant component gives a warm, inviting flavor. Always use pure for the best taste!
- Fresh blueberries: These juicy bursts of flavor are the star of the show! Make sure to toss them with flour to keep them from sinking.
- Powdered sugar: The key ingredient for our sweet glaze, which will crown our donuts with a delightful finish!
- Additional milk (for glaze): Just a bit more to loosen the powdered sugar, creating a smooth, drizzly consistency.
- Vanilla extract (for glaze): A splash in the glaze gives extra depth and richness to the sweet topping.
For exact measurements, just scroll down to the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 160°C (about 320°F). This step is crucial for even cooking. A quick preheat of just 3 to 5 minutes sets up for fluffy donuts! Plus, it helps the batter rise perfectly during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Whisk these together until they’re mixed well. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, leading to a consistent texture in our Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk, a large egg, melted unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully blended. The wet ingredients bring moisture and flavor, creating a delightful batter for our donuts.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and nobody wants that! We’re aiming for a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Fold in Blueberries
Next, fold in those gorgeous fresh blueberries that you tossed with a bit of flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the batter. Gently mix until evenly distributed, maintaining that light texture we all crave in a donut.
Step 6: Fill Molds
Lightly grease your silicone donut molds with a bit of cooking spray. Then, spoon the batter into each mold, filling them about three-quarters full. This allows enough room for the donuts to rise without overflowing, creating that perfect donut shape!
Step 7: Air Fry the Donuts
Arrange the filled molds in the air fryer basket. Cook at 160°C for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they look golden brown and feel springy to the touch. Make sure to check them around the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking!
Step 8: Cool and Glaze Donuts
Remove the molds from the air fryer and let the donuts cool for several minutes. This cooling period helps maintain their shape. While they’re cooling, prepare your glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, additional milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each cooled donut into the glaze or drizzle it on top. Then set aside to allow the glaze to set. Enjoy your fresh Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor. Frozen will work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Do not overmix your batter. A gentle hand keeps the donuts light and fluffy!
- If you don’t have silicone molds, use a muffin tin lined with parchment paper.
- Let your air fryer preheat properly for even cooking.
- Always check for doneness a minute or two before the timer goes off.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer: Essential for this recipe to achieve that perfect texture. An oven can work, but it won’t replicate the air fryer magic.
- Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls for mixing your wet and dry ingredients. One large bowl will work too!
- Spoon or spatula: Needed for transferring your batter and mixing ingredients.
- Silicone donut molds: Ideal for easy removal of donuts. If you don’t have them, use a muffin tin instead.
Variations
- Lemon Blueberry Donuts: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist that complements the blueberries beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Blueberry Donuts: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness and rich flavor. Who doesn’t love chocolate?
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-friendly treat!
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and butter.
- Spiced Blueberry Donuts: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mix for a warm, spiced flavor that elevates these donuts to comfort food status.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
- Pair your donuts with a fresh cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience.
- Serve with a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast that feels indulgent.
- Garnish with extra blueberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an eye-catching presentation.
- Try drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness!
FAQs about Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just note that frozen blueberries may release more moisture. Adjust your cooking time slightly to ensure the donuts remain fluffy!
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store your Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them, but they’re best fresh!
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While I recommend making the batter fresh, you can prepare dry ingredients a day ahead. When you’re ready to bake, mix with wet ingredients for the best results!
What can I serve with these donuts?
Serve your Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts with coffee, a dollop of whipped cream, or even yogurt for a delightful breakfast or dessert pairing!
Are Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts healthy?
Compared to traditional fried donuts, these Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are lower in calories and fat, thanks to the air frying method. Enjoy them guilt-free!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts is more than just cooking; it’s a delightful journey filled with love and flavor. Each bite takes you back to warm, cozy mornings, whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo. With their light texture and sweet blueberry bursts, they can turn any ordinary day into a celebration. So, next time you’re pressed for time but craving a treat, remember this recipe. It’s an easy way to add a sprinkle of joy to your life while satisfying those sweet cravings. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Print
Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Air Fryer Blueberry Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of fresh blueberries in a light and fluffy donut, glazed to perfection.
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
- Ensure to coat blueberries with flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter.
- Adjust the cooking time slightly based on your air fryer’s performance.
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
