Are you ready to enjoy a warm batch of Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts? This easy recipe promises to fill your kitchen with fall flavors in no time. You won’t need to be a pro baker to whip these up. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create soft, tasty donuts that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the fun and delicious world of pumpkin spice!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts
To make delicious pumpkin spice donuts, you need several key ingredients. Here is a list:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Each ingredient plays a special role. The pumpkin puree gives moisture and flavor. The sugars add sweetness and help with browning. The spices bring that warm, cozy taste of fall.
Measurement and Substitution Tips
When measuring ingredients, use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar. For liquid ingredients, use a liquid measuring cup. If you run out of an ingredient, here are some swaps:
– Use Greek yogurt instead of milk for a creamier texture.
– Applesauce can replace the butter for a lower-fat option.
– Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
These swaps keep the donuts tasty while fitting your needs.
Additional Toppings and Garnishes
To take these donuts to the next level, consider some fun toppings. After air frying, you can:
– Toss them in a mix of sugar and extra pumpkin pie spice.
– Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
– Top with chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
For a festive touch, serve the donuts on a rustic platter with powdered sugar and mini pumpkins. This will impress your guests and make the donuts even more appealing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Wet Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Then, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Crack the egg into the bowl next. Whisk everything together until it looks smooth. This mix adds moisture and flavor to your donuts.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Take another bowl and add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients well. This step ensures your spices and leavening agents spread evenly. Mixing them first helps the donuts rise nicely when cooked.
Combining Ingredients and Piping the Batter
Now, slowly add the dry mix into the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if some lumps remain; don’t overmix. Next, prepare your donut pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or oil. Fill a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with the batter. Cut off one corner of the bag. Pipe the batter into the donut molds, filling them about two-thirds full.
Air Frying the Donuts
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut pan in the air fryer basket. Cook the donuts for 5 to 7 minutes. They should be golden on top, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Cooling and Coating Options
Once cooked, carefully remove the donuts from the mold. Let them cool on a wire rack. If you want to coat them, mix sugar and extra pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl. While the donuts are still warm, toss them in this mix for extra flavor. You can also glaze them if you prefer a sweeter touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Donut Texture
To get the best texture for your donuts, keep your mixing simple. When you add the dry mix to the wet mix, stir gently. If you overmix, your donuts can become tough. You want a light and fluffy donut, so a few lumps are okay. Use fresh ingredients, especially the baking powder and baking soda, to help them rise well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not preheating the air fryer. If you skip this step, your donuts might cook unevenly. Also, be careful not to fill the donut molds too much. If you fill them to the top, the batter will overflow. Lastly, remember to check for doneness. Use a toothpick to see if they are fully cooked inside.
Recommended Equipment for Best Results
For the best results, use a good quality air fryer. It should heat evenly and have enough space for your donut pan. I recommend a non-stick donut pan. It makes it easier to release the donuts after cooking. A piping bag or zip-lock bag helps you fill the molds neatly. Finally, keep a wire rack handy for cooling. This helps the donuts stay light and crisp.
Variations
Vegan Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts
You can easily make vegan pumpkin spice donuts. Swap the egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. Use plant-based milk instead of regular milk. Coconut or almond milk works well. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil. This keeps the donuts moist and tasty.
Glazed vs. Coated: Choosing Your Finish
You have two fun options for finishing your donuts: glazing or coating. For a glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth. Dip the warm donuts in this sweet mix. For a coating, blend granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice. Toss warm donuts in this mix for a spiced touch. Both options add flavor and fun, so pick your favorite!
Flavor Variations (Chocolate Chips, Nuts)
Want to mix things up? Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to your batter. Chocolate chips bring a sweet touch to the warm spice. Nuts, like pecans or walnuts, add a nice crunch. Mix in about half a cup of either before piping the batter. You can also experiment with other spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, for added flavor. These variations make your donuts unique and exciting!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donuts
To keep your leftover donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their softness. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Freezing Tips for Longer Storage
To freeze your donuts, first let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together. You can freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions for Best Flavor
When you’re ready to enjoy your donuts, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about three to four minutes. This will make them warm and soft again. You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but they may not be as crispy.
FAQs
How Long Do These Donuts Last?
These donuts stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Store them in an airtight container. They taste best when enjoyed right after they cool. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze them for up to a month. Just wrap each donut well before freezing.
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook and puree it first. Make sure the puree is smooth and thick. Canned pumpkin is easier, but fresh can add great flavor too. Just remember to remove excess water from the fresh puree.
What Air Fryer Temperature is Best for Donuts?
I recommend setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the donuts cook evenly and get that nice golden color. Cooking them at the right temperature helps keep them soft and fluffy inside.
Are These Donuts Gluten-Free Friendly?
These donuts are not gluten-free as written. However, you can easily swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that works well for baking. This way, you can still enjoy these delicious treats!
Can I Make These Without a Donut Pan?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a donut pan, use silicone molds or even make donut holes. You can also shape the batter into rings on parchment paper. Just make sure they’re about the same thickness for even cooking.
You now know how to make air fryer pumpkin spice donuts that are tasty and fun. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips to get it right. Variations let you customize your donuts for any taste. Lastly, easy storage and reheating tips help keep them fresh. Enjoy your baking and the delicious treats you create! Happy frying!
