Gluten-Free Air Fryer Donuts
Soft, pillowy, and slightly crisp on the outside, these donuts are the perfect gluten-free treat. Using the air fryer makes them lighter while still delivering that satisfying bakery-style texture. No deep frying means less mess and fewer calories — but all the indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
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1 ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
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1 ½ tsp baking powder
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¼ tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
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½ tsp cinnamon (optional for warmth)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy), room temperature
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coating:
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for even rising.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Make the Batter
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix — gluten-free dough can turn dense if overworked. The batter should be thick but scoopable.
4. Prepare Donut Pan
Lightly grease a silicone or metal donut mold that fits inside your air fryer basket. You can also use parchment paper cut into donut-sized circles with holes in the middle if you don’t have a mold.
5. Fill the Molds
Spoon batter into the molds, filling each cavity about ¾ full to allow room for rising.
6. Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes. Place the molds into the basket. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool Slightly
Carefully remove the donuts from the molds and place them on a wire rack to cool for about 5 minutes. This helps set their shape and texture.
8. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
In a shallow bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Dip each donut lightly into melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Tips for Success
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Flour blend matters: Choose a gluten-free all-purpose blend that already contains xanthan gum for best texture. If your blend doesn’t, add ½ tsp xanthan gum.
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No donut mold? Pipe the batter into parchment rings on your air fryer tray to maintain shape.
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Make them dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
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Flavor twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or swap cinnamon sugar for a chocolate glaze.
Serving Ideas
Enjoy your gluten-free air fryer donuts fresh and warm for the ultimate comfort. Pair with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, or drizzle with maple glaze for a weekend brunch treat. They’re best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days — just reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.
