Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a convenient and healthier alternative to deep frying. With their ability to quickly and evenly cook a wide variety of foods, it’s no wonder that many people are turning to air fryers for their cooking needs. One delicious treat that can be easily made in an air fryer is donut holes. In this article, we will show you how to make delicious air fryer donut holes in just a few minutes.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin making your air fryer donut holes, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need:
1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
3. 1 teaspoon baking powder
4. 1/4 teaspoon salt
5. 1/4 cup milk (you can use any type of milk you prefer)
6. 1/4 cup melted butter
7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8. Cooking spray or oil for greasing the air fryer basket
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture gently until it forms a soft dough-like consistency. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough donut holes.
Shape the Donut Holes
Once the dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. You can use your hands for this step or a cookie scoop to achieve a consistent size.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the donut holes, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is important to ensure that the donut holes cook evenly and have a nice golden exterior.
Air Fry the Donut Holes
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Place the shaped donut holes in the basket, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for proper airflow. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can affect the cooking time and result in unevenly cooked donut holes.
Cooking Time
Cook the donut holes in the preheated air fryer for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure even cooking, flip the donut holes halfway through the cooking time using tongs or a fork.
Cooling and Glazing
Once the donut holes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. While they are cooling, you can prepare the glaze of your choice. Traditional options include a simple powdered sugar glaze or a chocolate glaze. Drizzle or dip the cooled donut holes in the glaze, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
Alternative Flavor Options
While traditional glazed donut holes are undeniably delicious, you can also experiment with different flavors and toppings to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Cinnamon Sugar
Instead of glazing the donut holes, roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while they are still warm. The sweetness of the sugar combined with the warmth of the cinnamon creates a mouthwatering treat.
Chocolate Hazelnut
For a decadent twist, substitute the vanilla extract in the dough with hazelnut extract. After cooking the donut holes, dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts.
Fruit-Filled
Inject a burst of fruity goodness into your donut holes by filling them with your favorite jam or jelly. Use a small piping bag or a squeeze bottle to add the filling after the donut holes have cooled slightly.
Conclusion
Air fryer donut holes are a quick and easy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy delicious homemade donut holes in minutes. Whether you prefer them glazed, cinnamon-sugar coated, or filled with fruity goodness, the possibilities are endless. So, grab your air fryer, try out these recipes, and indulge in these scrumptious delights guilt-free!