Deliciously Healthy Donuts Using an Air Fryer

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes in Style! I’m Sophie Grace, the culinary mind behind this blog. Today, I’m thrilled to guide you through the creation of a delightful treat: Healthy Donuts (Air Fryer). If you’re looking for a guilt-free way to enjoy sweet indulgence, then this recipe is perfect for you. Using an air fryer not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also delivers a perfectly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

Donuts have long been a beloved treat for people of all ages. However, their traditional deep-fried preparation often makes them less than ideal for those pursuing a healthier lifestyle. By utilizing an air fryer, we can transform these sweet treats into a healthier option without compromising on flavor or texture. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just beginning your culinary journey, my aim is to inspire you with this simple yet elegant recipe, bringing the joy of delicious, niche cuisine into your home.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

This recipe for healthy donuts offers several key benefits. First, using an air fryer significantly reduces the fat content, making it a healthier choice compared to traditional frying methods. Additionally, these donuts are made with wholesome ingredients, providing a source of nutrients without the heavy calorie load.

Unique Features

Besides being healthier, these air fryer donuts are incredibly easy to make, requiring no special skills or equipment beyond what you likely already have in your kitchen. The dough comes together quickly, and the air fryer ensures an even cook with minimal effort. These features make it a suitable recipe for quick breakfast treats or a delightful snack any time of day.

Ingredients for Healthy Donuts (Air Fryer)

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar or sugar substitute
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup skim milk or almond milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

Optional Add-ins

• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a spiced flavor
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for chocolate donuts
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts for added crunch

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the skim milk, applesauce, vanilla extract, eggs, and melted coconut oil until well combined.
3. Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently to form a smooth batter. If adding any optional ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cooking Process

1. Lightly grease the air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper designed for air fryers.
2. Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill the donut molds with the batter until they are about three-quarters full.
3. Place the filled molds into the preheated air fryer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean.
4. Allow the donuts to cool in the molds for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Once cooled, glaze the donuts if desired or sprinkle with a touch of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough donuts.
• Use a piping bag for filling molds to prevent mess and ensure even distribution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the molds can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the preheating step may result in longer cooking times.
• Opening the air fryer too frequently can cause temperature fluctuations and affect the cooking process.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

Each donut contains approximately 150 calories, with 7g of fat, 18g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. These values may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and add-ins used.

Health Benefits

These air fryer donuts are lower in fat compared to traditional fried donuts, thanks to the use of an air fryer and wholesome ingredients like almond flour and applesauce. The use of almond milk and coconut oil also contributes to a healthier fat profile, making these donuts a nutritious choice for those seeking a balanced diet.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Replace eggs with flax eggs for a vegan version.
• Use stevia or erythritol in place of sugar for a lower-calorie version.

Flavor Variations

• Add a teaspoon of matcha powder for a green tea twist.
• Incorporate lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Top with a chocolate glaze made from melted dark chocolate and a splash of milk.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain freshness, avoid stacking the donuts directly on top of one another.

Serving Ideas

These healthy donuts are perfect for breakfast alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They can also be served as a delightful afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal. For a special treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or fresh fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these Healthy Donuts (Air Fryer) as much as I do. This recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional donuts without sacrificing flavor or texture. Perfect for any occasion, these donuts are sure to impress family and friends alike. Remember, cooking is an art that brings people together, and with these easy-to-follow steps, you can create a stylish and delicious treat in your own kitchen. Join the Recipes In Style community for more delightful recipes, and share your creations with us on social media. Let’s make cooking stylish, creative, and fun!

Bon Appétit,
Sophie Grace, Your Chef 🍳✨

Deliciously Healthy Donuts Using an Air Fryer

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 donuts 1x

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Description

Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with these Healthy Donuts made in the air fryer. Soft, fluffy, and perfectly crisped without the extra oil, they’re a quick and wholesome treat any time of day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar or sugar substitute
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup skim milk or almond milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
• Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Optional: 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, applesauce, vanilla extract, eggs, and melted coconut oil.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a smooth batter. Fold in optional ingredients if desired.
4. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
5. Grease air fryer basket or use parchment liners.
6. Fill donut molds about 3/4 full with batter using a spoon or piping bag.
7. Place molds in air fryer and cook for 8–10 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool in molds for a few minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
9. Glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing. Avoid overfilling molds or opening the air fryer during cooking. For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Healthy

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 donut
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: healthy donuts, air fryer, low fat, breakfast, snack