Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns brisk, there’s nothing quite like embracing the cozy flavors of fall. Enter Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts—a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re gearing up for a crisp autumn morning or looking to whip up a sweet surprise for loved ones, these donuts are a must-try.
Not only are they infused with the warm, aromatic spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, but the addition of pumpkin also makes them wonderfully moist. Making them in an air fryer takes the guilt out of indulgence, allowing you to enjoy a deliciously soft and fluffy donut while keeping things lighter and healthier. Plus, the air fryer gives them that perfect golden-brown exterior without the need for deep frying.
In this recipe, we’ll explore how to create these delightful donuts from scratch, including a simple pumpkin spice blend and an easy glaze to top them off. So, grab your favorite mug of coffee or spiced cider, and let’s dive into the world of warm, homemade goodness that will make your mornings extra special!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
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- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for around 5 minutes to ensure consistent cooking.
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- In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
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- In another bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
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- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, and gently fold until just blended. It’s fine if there are a few lumps; avoid overmixing.
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- Lightly coat your donut pan (or mold) with non-stick cooking spray. If you lack a donut pan, alternative options include a silicone mold or trimmed cupcake liners.
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- Fill each cavity of the prepared pan with the batter, about three-quarters full.
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- Position the filled pan in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
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- After cooking, carefully take the donuts from the pan and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
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- In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with a dash of cinnamon for a sweet topping.
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- Brush each donut with melted butter, then roll or dip them in the cinnamon-sugar blend for coating.
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- Serve warm and delight in the comforting flavors of fall!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 12
Key Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the donuts, providing structure and texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help the donuts rise.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk: Balances the consistency of the batter; can use dairy or a non-dairy alternative.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice for that warm, cozy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds additional leavening to create a perfect texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Provides richness and flavor; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Optional for topping: Cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon) or a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness and decoration.
Baking Process
Creating delightful Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps for a warm morning surprise that will fill your home with the comforting aroma of fall.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your donuts cook evenly and achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
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Combine Both Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold the mixtures together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Prepare the Donut Molds
Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil. This will help the donuts pop out easily after cooking.
Step 5: Fill the Molds
Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. This allows space for the donuts to rise without overflowing.
Step 6: Air Fry the Donuts
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Place the Mold in the Air Fryer: Carefully transfer the filled donut pan to the preheated air fryer basket.
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Cooking Time: Air fry the donuts for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them after the 8-minute mark; they should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Once cooked, carefully remove the donut pan from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. After about 5 minutes, gently tap the donuts out of the mold and allow them to cool completely.
Step 8: Optional Glaze or Topping
While the donuts cool, you can prepare a simple glaze or toss them in cinnamon sugar for added flavor:
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For a Glaze: Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and a pinch of vanilla. Drizzle over the cooled donuts.
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For Cinnamon Sugar: Combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Toss the donuts in the mixture while still warm for a delightful sweet crunch.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts are now ready to be served! Enjoy them warm for a cozy morning treat, or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, these donuts offer a delicious way to embrace the flavors of fall.
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts are a delightful treat perfect for a cozy morning. Here are some serving ideas to enhance your donut experience:
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Warm and Fresh: Serve the donuts warm straight from the air fryer for the best taste and texture. The warmth will enhance the aromatic spices and make them even more delicious.
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Glaze or Frosting: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the donuts for a sweet finishing touch. You can also use cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
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Spice It Up: Sprinkle some extra pumpkin spice or cinnamon sugar on top for a touch of sweetness and spice.
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Pair with Beverages: Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, chai latte, or spiced apple cider to complement the fall flavors.
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Fruit Accents: Add some fresh or caramelized apple slices or poached pears on the side to bring a fruity contrast to the warm spiced donuts.
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Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
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Nutty Goodness: Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
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Breakfast Platter: Create a breakfast platter with your pumpkin spice donuts, yogurt, and seasonal fruit for a well-rounded meal that’s both tasty and visually appealing.
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Garnish: Use edible flowers or a dusting of edible glitter to elevate the presentation if you’re serving at a brunch gathering.
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Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Revive the donuts by popping them back in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving again.
Enjoy these serving suggestions to enhance your Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts and make your mornings even more special!
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts are the perfect treat to greet a crisp morning with warmth and flavor. The delightful combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and a light glaze creates a cozy sensation that’s sure to elevate your breakfast routine. Not only are they easy to whip up, thanks to the air fryer, but they also provide a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing taste or texture.
Enjoy these donuts fresh out of the air fryer, and feel free to experiment with toppings or fillings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying them with a steaming cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these donuts will bring a touch of autumnal charm to any occasion. So go ahead, make your morning a little sweeter with these delectable pumpkin spice delights!
