Name: Air Fryer Lemon Donuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted and melted; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons lemon zest, grated; 4-5 tablespoons butter, unsalted and melted

Introduction to Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Homemade donuts can transform your brunch game. There's something special about creating your own sweet treats, and when it comes to Air Fryer Lemon Donuts, the excitement is even sweeter. Not only are these donuts light and fluffy, but they also have a fresh and zesty flavor that’s hard to resist. Imagine serving these delicious, warm donuts at a small gathering or enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a lazy Sunday morning.

Making donuts at home can be a whole lot more convenient and healthier compared to store-bought options. With the air fryer, you're skipping the deep-frying step, which reduces the oil and calories while still achieving that delightful texture. Plus, you can customize flavors to match your mood—lemon zest today, cinnamon tomorrow!

Looking for a reason to try these out? Well, homemade treats can provide a sense of accomplishment and an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. You’ll not only impress your friends but also gain a newfound appreciation for the art of donut-making. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into these delightful Air Fryer Lemon Donuts!

For inspiration and tips on donut-making, check out this excellent guide.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Essential Ingredients for the Donuts

Creating your delicious Air Fryer Lemon Donuts starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need:

1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 teaspoons lemon zest

These ingredients meld together to create a moist, fluffy donut that features a vibrant lemon flavor.

Ingredients for the Glaze

To top off your Air Fryer Lemon Donuts, you'll want a simple yet tasty glaze. Gather the following:

½ cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons grated lemon zest
4-5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

This glaze brings an extra burst of lemony sweetness that perfectly complements the donuts. Feel free to adjust the glaze's thickness by varying the butter and sugar proportions to suit your taste! Not sure which butter to choose? Check out this handy guide on unsalted vs. salted butter.

With these ingredients at hand, you're ready to whip up some delightful lemon-filled treats that will impress friends and family alike!

Step-by-step preparation of Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Making Air Fryer Lemon Donuts is a delightful experience that combines simplicity with flavor. The process is quick and easy, and I promise the result will have you craving these tasty treats time and again. Let’s dive in!

Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s always best to have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need for your donuts:

For the donuts:
1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons butter, unsalted and melted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 teaspoons lemon zest
For the glaze:
½ cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons lemon zest, grated
4-5 tablespoons butter, unsalted and melted

Having everything at your fingertips makes the cooking process so much smoother.

Mix the donut batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients first: flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, add the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon zest. Here’s a little tip: the zest is where all that amazing lemon flavor comes from, so don’t skip it! Mix everything together until you get a smooth batter. It’s alright if there are a few lumps; you want it fluffy.

Prepare the donut molds

Now that your batter is ready, it’s time to prepare your donut molds. Spray them with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your donuts come out easily. Pour the batter into the molds until they’re about three-quarters full—this allows room for them to rise without overflowing.

Air fry the donuts

Preheat your air fryer to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it’s ready, gently place the molds inside and set the timer for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Air Fryer Lemon Donuts cook faster than traditional methods, so keep an eye on them!

Make the lemon glaze

While the donuts are cooking, you can prepare the lemon glaze. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, lemon zest, and melted butter. This glaze is what adds that perfect finish with a zing!

Drizzle and enjoy

Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, carefully remove them from the molds. Drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the tops. The sweet and tangy flavor combination is simply irresistible!

Plate them up, serve, and get ready to impress your friends and family. Your delightful Air Fryer Lemon Donuts are now ready for everyone to enjoy!

Variations on Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Blueberry Lemon Donuts

Elevate your Air Fryer Lemon Donuts by folding in fresh or frozen blueberries. The burst of fruity flavor pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon, creating a delightful combination. Simply add about 1 cup of blueberries to your batter before air frying. Not only do they add color, but they also bring additional antioxidants to your treat!

Chocolate Lemon Donuts

If you're a chocolate lover, consider making chocolate lemon donuts by swirling in cocoa powder or chocolate chips. Use about ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder in the batter for a rich chocolate flavor that complements the brightness of lemon. The result? A decadent dessert that satisfies both cravings—chocolate and citrus!

Feel free to experiment and share your variations online! For more delicious ideas, check out this link for inspiration.

Cooking tips and notes for Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Ensuring even cooking

For perfectly cooked Air Fryer Lemon Donuts, it's essential to arrange the donuts in a single layer without overcrowding. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning. If you have multiple batches, let your air fryer rest for a few minutes between rounds to maintain optimal cooking temperature.

Storing leftover donuts

To keep your leftover donuts fresh, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider wrapping them individually and freezing them for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat briefly in the air fryer for that warm, fresh taste!

Serving suggestions for Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Pairing with coffee or tea

One of the simplest joys in life is enjoying Air Fryer Lemon Donuts alongside a comforting cup of coffee or tea. The zesty flavors of lemon beautifully complement a rich, dark roast coffee, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. If you prefer tea, a light chamomile or green tea enhances the fresh citrus notes, making for a delightful afternoon snack. Consider serving them warm alongside your favorite brew—like a match made in heaven!

Creative plating ideas

Elevate your Air Fryer Lemon Donuts presentation with a touch of creativity. Try stacking them on a charming cake stand, or lay them out on a colorful platter for a festive brunch spread. Drizzling the glaze artistically over each donut and garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a wonderful visual appeal. For a charming twist, serve them with a side of lemon curd for dipping, turning your dessert into an interactive experience!

For more entertaining ideas, check out this guide on creative food displays.

Time Breakdown for Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Preparation time
Getting started is a breeze! You’ll need just about 10-15 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the batter for these delightful Air Fryer Lemon Donuts.

Cooking time
Once your batter is ready and in the mold, it takes about 10-12 minutes for them to cook in the air fryer. Keep an eye on them to ensure they’re perfectly golden.

Total time
In total, you’re looking at around 20-30 minutes to create these scrumptious treats from start to finish. Enjoy the deliciousness!

Nutritional Facts for Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

When it comes to indulging in sweet treats, knowing their nutritional profile can help strike a balance. Here are the highlights for our delightful Air Fryer Lemon Donuts:

Calories

Each donut packs about 230 calories, making it a reasonably refreshing dessert option.

Sugar Content

With approximately 22 grams of sugar per serving, these donuts are certainly sweet! Consider enjoying them alongside a savory breakfast to help balance that sweetness.

Protein

These treats provide around 4 grams of protein, giving you a subtle boost along with your well-deserved indulgence.

For more health-related tips and to explore our favorite nutritious dessert ideas, check out Healthline and Nutrition.org.

FAQs about Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with zesty lemon, you can swap in other citrus like orange, lime, or even grapefruit for a unique twist. Just remember that the amount of juice and zest may vary based on the fruit—start with equal measurements to retain the donut's moisture and flavor.

How do I know when they're cooked?
To check if your Air Fryer Lemon Donuts are perfectly baked, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they're done! Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.

What equipment do I need?
For these delightful donuts, you'll need:

An air fryer (grab a popular option here)
Donut molds specifically designed for air fryers (check out my blog post for recommendations)
Cooking spray to prevent sticking

With the right tools, you'll be well on your way to creating these delicious treats!

Conclusion on Air Fryer Lemon Donuts

Final thoughts on homemade joy

Making Air Fryer Lemon Donuts is not just about indulging in a delicious treat—it's about embracing the joy of creating something from scratch. Each bite offers a delightful burst of lemon flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, get your air fryer ready, and relish the satisfaction of homemade goodness! For more inspiration, check out these tips for baking in an air fryer.