Vegan Donut Air Fryer Recipe: Delicious and Guilt-Free Treats

Vegan donuts made in an air fryer are the perfect balance of indulgence and health-conscious eating. These treats are fluffy, sweet, and delightfully light, making them a wonderful addition to breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion. Unlike traditional deep-fried donuts, air fryer donuts are cooked with minimal oil, ensuring they’re both healthier and easier to clean up after. With this recipe, you’ll have mouthwatering vegan donuts in under an hour, using basic ingredients you likely already have at home.

Whether you’re vegan or just looking to explore plant-based recipes, this air fryer vegan donut recipe offers a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on taste.

---

Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American, Vegan
• Course: Dessert, Snack
• Servings: 8 donuts
• Calories: Approximately 190 calories per donut
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

---

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter or donut cutter
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

---

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons plant-based milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the plant-based milk, melted coconut oil, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
3. Form the Dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

4. Knead and Roll: Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for about 1-2 minutes. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness.
5. Cut the Donuts: Use a donut cutter or two round biscuit cutters (one large, one small for the center) to cut out donut shapes. Reroll scraps as needed.

Step 3: Let the Donuts Rest

6. Rest: Place the donuts on a parchment-lined tray and let them rest for about 20-30 minutes. This helps them puff up slightly.

Step 4: Air Fry the Donuts

7. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
8. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the donuts with melted coconut oil to ensure they crisp up nicely.
9. Cook: Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

10. Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar if needed.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

11. Dip and Cool: Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip them into the glaze and place them on a cooling rack to set. You can also sprinkle toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for extra flair.
12. Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

---

Nutrition Information (Per Donut)

• Calories: 190
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 120mg

---

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overkneading can make the donuts tough instead of fluffy.
2. Temperature Check: All air fryers vary slightly in heat distribution, so check on the donuts a minute or two early to avoid overcooking.
3. Oil Brush: A light coat of oil ensures golden, crispy exteriors. Avoid using too much oil, as it can make the donuts greasy.

---

Why Air Fryer Vegan Donuts Are Amazing

1. Healthier Alternative: These donuts are lower in fat than their deep-fried counterparts.
2. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and clean-up, they’re perfect for busy schedules.
3. Customizable: Add chocolate glaze, cinnamon sugar, or fruit toppings to match your cravings.
4. Kid-Friendly: They’re fun to make and enjoy with kids!