Get ready for fall with my easy air fryer pumpkin spice donuts! These donuts are fluffy, warm, and full of that perfect autumn flavor. With simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and warm spices, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips for making them even better. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and bring the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 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, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Finding the right ingredients is key to making great pumpkin spice donuts. You need pumpkin puree for that rich, fall flavor. All-purpose flour gives them structure. Granulated and brown sugar add sweetness and depth. Baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. Pumpkin pie spice gives them that classic taste. A pinch of salt balances the flavors. Milk adds moisture, while melted butter brings richness. The egg binds everything together, and vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma.
Ingredient Substitutes
– Alternatives for pumpkin puree: You can use sweet potato puree or butternut squash. These will change the flavor a bit, but they work well.
– Gluten-free options for flour: Try almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum.
– Lower sugar alternatives: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia. This will lower the sugar content without losing taste.
Choosing the right ingredients or substitutes lets you customize this recipe to fit your needs. Enjoy making these delightful air fryer pumpkin spice donuts!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Wet Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these until smooth. This step is key to creating a rich flavor in your donuts.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly mixed. This helps your donuts rise and get that perfect texture.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gently combine the dry mix with the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon for this. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if some lumps remain. This keeps your donuts light and fluffy.
Preheating and Preparing Donut Pan
Set your air fryer to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes. While it heats, lightly grease your donut pan. This step helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal later.
Filling Donut Molds
Spoon your batter into a piping bag or a zip-lock bag. Cut off one corner to make piping easy. Fill the donut molds about two-thirds full. This gives them room to rise without spilling over.
Air Frying the Donuts
Carefully place the filled donut pan in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready.
Cooling Process
Once cooked, gently remove the donuts from the mold. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for the donuts to set properly and maintain their shape.
Coating Options
For a tasty finish, mix granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl. Roll the warm donuts in this mix for a sweet touch. You can also glaze them to add extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Fluffy Donuts
To make fluffy donuts, mixing is key. You want to blend your wet ingredients well first. Use a whisk to combine the pumpkin puree, sugars, milk, butter, egg, and vanilla. This step is crucial. Next, mix the dry ingredients separately. When you combine them, do not overmix. Gently fold the dry mix into the wet mix. If it’s a bit lumpy, that’s okay. Lumps keep your donuts soft and airy.
Air Frying Best Practices
Air frying requires attention to time and temperature. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for five minutes. This ensures even cooking. When placing your donut pan inside, avoid overcrowding. Cook the donuts for 5-7 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store your leftover donuts in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. They stay good for about two days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that fresh taste.
Variations
Substitute Ingredients
You can make these donuts vegan by swapping out a few key ingredients. Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Instead of milk, choose almond milk or oat milk. For butter, use coconut oil or vegan butter.
You can also play with different spice blends. If you want a twist, try cinnamon and nutmeg instead of pumpkin pie spice. You could even add ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
Additional Flavor Options
Want to make these donuts more exciting? Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for a delightful crunch. Dark chocolate chips pair perfectly with pumpkin. If you like nuts, walnuts or pecans add a nice texture.
For glazing, the options are endless! You can dip the warm donuts in chocolate glaze or drizzle a maple glaze over them. A simple glaze of powdered sugar mixed with milk gives a sweet finish too.
Seasonal Variations
Fall is the perfect time to experiment with flavors. You can add apple cider or even a touch of maple syrup to the batter. These flavors blend well with pumpkin. Another great idea is to mix in some caramel for a rich, sweet treat. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make these donuts your own!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donuts
To keep your donuts fresh, use an airtight container. This helps keep them soft. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Freezing Donuts
If you choose to freeze your donuts, here’s how:
– First, let the donuts cool completely.
– Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap.
– Next, place the wrapped donuts in a freezer bag.
– Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing.
To thaw, take them out and leave at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.
Freshening Up Leftovers
To enjoy your leftover donuts, reheat them gently. You can use:
– A microwave for about 10 seconds.
– An air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 300°F.
This helps restore their fluffy texture without drying them out. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs
Can I make these donuts without an air fryer?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these donuts in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan and fill it the same way. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden. Check with a toothpick to see if they are done.
How do I ensure my donuts are cooked all the way through?
To check if your donuts are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. You can also gently press the top; it should spring back. If it leaves an imprint, they need more time.
What to do if my donuts stick to the pan?
To prevent sticking, make sure to grease your donut pan well with non-stick spray or oil. If they still stick, let them cool for a few minutes before trying to remove them. Use a small knife to gently loosen the edges if needed.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works great! It can add a fresh flavor. Just make sure to strain it well to remove extra moisture. This helps keep your donuts light and fluffy compared to store-bought puree.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the donuts?
If you want to lower the sweetness, reduce the granulated or brown sugar by a tablespoon or two. You can also add spices to enhance flavor without extra sugar. For a sweeter donut, add more sugar, but do it gradually to find the right balance.
You now have all the tools to make delicious air fryer pumpkin donuts. We covered each ingredient, technique, and helpful tip to ensure your success. You learned how to substitute ingredients for different diets and flavors.
Remember, mixing well and avoiding overcooking is key. With simple steps and some creativity, you can enjoy fresh donuts anytime. So grab your ingredients, and start making these delightful treats!
