How To Reheat Donuts In Air Fryer

How To Reheat Donuts In Air Fryer –Donuts are the perfect breakfast or snack food everyone loves. They are soft, sweet, and delicious, but what happens when you have leftover donuts the next day? Do you throw them away or try to eat them cold? Neither of these options is ideal. A better solution is reheating your donuts in an air fryer. 

Below, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to follow when reheating donuts in an air fryer so you can give them a new life and enjoy them as fresh as you did when they were first made.

Why Reheating Donuts In The Air Fryer Is The Best Way​

Reheated donuts in the air fryer have become popular among donut enthusiasts, and there are good reasons for this. Here’s why reheating donuts in the air fryer are often considered the best way and best method.

• Crispiness Restored: One of the major advantages of the air fryer is its ability to re-crisp foods that have become soft. For donuts, this means restoring the outer layer to its original, freshly baked state while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
• Even Heating: Unlike microwaves, which can sometimes heat food unevenly, air fryers circulate hot air around the food, ensuring that it’s reheated uniformly. This means no cold centers or overly hot edges.
• No Sogginess: Microwaving can often leave donuts soggy due to the steam created during the process. An air fryer, however, reheats without introducing added moisture, so the texture is more consistent with a freshly baked donut.
• Fast: Air fryers can reheat donuts in just a few minutes, and since they preheat quickly, the entire process is efficient.
• No Oil Needed: Even though the technology uses the concept of frying, no additional oil is needed to reheat donuts in an air fryer. This means you’re enjoying your treat without any additional fat.
• Flavor Retention: The rapid circulation of hot air in an air fryer ensures that the flavors in the donut remain locked in and aren’t diluted or altered during reheating.
• Versatility: If you’ve got other pastries or baked goods that need reheating, the air fryer can handle those, too. Its versatility extends beyond just donuts.
• Less Risk of Overheating: Microwaves can quickly turn a donut into a tough, rubbery mess if left in for too long. There’s a little more leeway with an air fryer, and the results are more forgiving.
• Safety: Since air fryers are closed systems, there’s no risk of oil splatters or burns that you might associate with reheating in a frying pan.

​What Type Of Donuts Can You Reheat In The Air Fryer?

​You can reheat a wide variety of donuts in the air fryer. Each type might have slightly different results due to their distinct textures and toppings, but here are some common types of donuts you can reheat:

• Glazed Donuts: These are perhaps the most delicate when reheating because the glaze can melt if the temperature is too high. 
• Jelly or Cream-Filled Donuts: When reheating these, the main concern is to avoid overheating the filling. 
• Cake Donuts: These denser donuts can be reheated, making the exterior crisp while keeping the inside moist.
• Old-Fashioned Donuts: Or even stale donuts! 
• Crullers: They can be reheated quickly because they are airy and light.  
• Sprinkle or Topped Donuts: If your donuts have toppings like sprinkles, coconut shreds, or nuts, you can still reheat them in an air fryer. 
• Chocolate-covered or Frosted Donuts: Be cautious with these, as the chocolate or frosting can melt. 
• Bear Claws or Fritters: These larger, often fruit-filled pastries can be reheated in an air fryer. Due to their size, they might need an extra minute or two compared to regular donuts.

When reheating any donut in an air fryer, it’s always a good idea to check on them periodically to prevent over-cooking. The optimal time and temperature might vary slightly depending on the specific air fryer model and how many donuts you’re reheating. Starting with a shorter time and adding more as needed can help ensure the best results.

​How To Reheat Donuts In Air Fryer

​Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

This step is very important in making sure that your donuts are reheated evenly. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F for 2-3 minutes. This will ensure that your donuts are evenly heated.

Step 2: Place Your Donuts in the Air Fryer

Once you have preheated the air fryer, remove your donuts from the fridge and place them in the air fryer basket. Ensure that the donuts are not touching each other and that there is enough space to crisp up properly.

Step 3: Air Fry Your Donuts

Set your air fryer to 350 degrees F for 3-4 minutes. Check your donuts halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are not being burnt. If your donuts are not as crisp as you would like, you can cook them for another minute.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Donuts

Now that your donuts are reheated, it’s time to enjoy them! Serve them hot with a cup of coffee, milk, or tea.

Pro Tips For Reheating Donuts In Air Fryer

​Reheating donuts in an air fryer can be straightforward, but a few pro tips can make a difference in achieving the best results. Here are some professional pointers for optimal donut rejuvenation:

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating the air fryer can lead to more consistent results. Most air fryers usually take a few minutes to reach the desired temperature.
• Space Them Out: Avoid overcrowding the basket. Place donuts in a single layer without them touching. This ensures even air circulation and consistent reheating.
• Check Frequently: Since donuts reheat quickly in an air fryer, keeping an eye on them is essential. Start with a shorter time, and add more if necessary.
• Adjust Temperature for Toppings: If a donut has delicate toppings like glaze or chocolate, reduce the temperature slightly to avoid melting or burning.
• Use Parchment Liners: If you’re concerned about sticky glazes or toppings, consider using air fryer parchment paper liners to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
• Turn Them Halfway: For the most even results, especially if your air fryer doesn’t circulate air perfectly, consider turning the donuts halfway through the reheating process.
• Use a Light Mist of Water: If your donuts are a day old and have lost some moisture, a light mist of water before reheating can help reintroduce some moisture and prevent them from becoming too dry.
• Let Them Rest: After taking the donuts from the air fryer, let them sit for a minute or two. This allows the heat to distribute evenly throughout the donut, especially if there’s a filling inside.
• Stay Attentive to Filled Donuts: Cream or jelly-filled donuts can become extremely hot inside, even if the exterior feels warm. Always be cautious and give filled donuts a little rest before biting into them.
• Experiment and Adjust: All air fryers vary in heat distribution and efficiency. The first time you reheat a particular type of donut, pay close attention and adjust time or temperature as needed for future batches.

By following these tips and understanding the specific characteristics of the donuts you’re reheating, you can enjoy donuts that taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked!

How To Reheat Donuts In Toaster Oven

• Preheat the Toaster Oven:
  • Start by preheating the toaster oven to a moderate temperature, around 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the Donuts:
  • If the donuts are refrigerated, it’s a good idea to let them come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before reheating.
  • For especially dry donuts or ones a couple of days old, you can lightly mist them with water using a spray bottle. This helps reintroduce some moisture.
• Place the Donuts on the Oven Rack or Tray:
  • Arrange the donuts on the toaster oven’s rack or a baking tray, ensuring they are spaced and not touching. This allows for even reheating.
  • If you’re concerned about potential drips or melting glaze, place a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil under the donuts.
• Reheat:
  • Place the donuts in the preheated toaster oven.
  • Reheat glazed or frosted donuts for about 2-4 minutes. Be cautious; you don’t want to melt the frosting or glaze too much.
  • For plain, cake, or filled donuts, 4-6 minutes should suffice. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overheat or dry out.

Best Toppings And Glazes For Reheated Donuts In Air Fryer

Reheating donuts in an air fryer can revive their texture and offer an opportunity to introduce new flavors and freshness. If you have plain or day-old donuts and you’re thinking of jazzing them up after reheating, here are some topping and glaze ideas:

Glazes:

• Simple Vanilla Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over the warm donut.
• Chocolate Glaze: Melt chocolate chips with a bit of cream or milk. You can add some powdered sugar for extra sweetness if desired.
• Maple Glaze: Combine powdered sugar, real maple syrup (or brown sugar), and a splash of milk for a sweet, autumn-inspired flavor.
• Lemon Glaze: Use lemon juice with powdered sugar and a hint of lemon zest for a zesty, tangy glaze.
• Coffee Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with cooled, brewed coffee for a mocha-inspired treat.

Toppings:

• Sprinkles: Simple and colorful, sprinkles add a fun element. It’s best to sprinkle them over a freshly glazed donut so they stick.
• Chopped Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds can add crunch and flavor. Toasting the nuts beforehand can amplify their taste.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted or untoasted, coconut adds a delightful tropical touch.
• Candied Bacon: Add some savory-sweet flair with bits of candied bacon.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce can introduce a rich, buttery sweetness.
• Fruity Zest: Grated orange, lemon, or lime zest can provide a fresh and zesty aroma and taste.
• Crushed Cookies or Biscuits: Whether it’s Oreo crumbs or crushed graham crackers, this addition can provide an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A classic topping that can be sprinkled on right after the donuts come out of the air fryer, the sweet cinnamon sugar combination makes them reminiscent of churros.

How To Store Donuts

​Properly storing donuts can help retain their freshness and flavor for longer. Here’s how to store donuts based on the duration and your needs:

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days):

• Room Temperature:
  • Place the donuts in a paper bag, and then place that bag in a plastic storage bag or airtight container. This helps to absorb any excess oil or moisture, preventing the donuts from becoming soggy.
  • Keep the bag in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Avoid sealing the donuts completely in a plastic bag without the paper bag, as this can trap humidity and make them soggy.
• Avoid Refrigerating:
  • Storing donuts in the refrigerator can cause them to become stale and dry out more quickly due to the cool, circulating air. If you must refrigerate them (for instance, if they have a perishable filling), consume them quickly or consider reheating them before eating.

Longer Storage (Beyond 2 Days):

• Freezing:
  • If you want to keep donuts for more than a couple of days, freezing is the best option.
  • Individually wrap each donut in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place the wrapped donuts in a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
  • Label the bag with the date and type of donut for reference.
  • Store in the freezer for up to three months.
  • To consume, allow them to thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer.

Pro Tips For Storing Donuts

• Cream-Filled or Dairy-Topped Donuts: Any donuts with dairy toppings or fillings should be consumed quickly or stored in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. But again, remember that refrigeration can affect the texture.
• Check for Mold: If you’re storing donuts beyond a day or two, always inspect them for signs of mold or spoilage before consumption.
• Reheating: Donuts can benefit from reheating, especially when stored in the freezer or refrigerator. Methods like microwaving for a few seconds or using an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer can refresh the texture and warmth of the donut.

By storing donuts properly, you can prolong their life and enjoy them over several days, even weeks, if frozen.

How long should I reheat a donut in an air fryer?

Typically, reheating a donut takes about 2-4 minutes at around 350°F (175°C). However, the exact time can vary based on the type of donut and the specific air fryer model.

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Can I reheat multiple donuts at once?

Yes, but do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. The donuts should be in a single layer and not touching to ensure even air circulation.

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Will the glaze on my donut melt in the air fryer?

There’s a possibility. To avoid melting the glaze excessively, consider reheating at a slightly lower temperature, around 300°F (150°C), and check frequently.

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My donuts are a day old. Can the air fryer make them taste fresh again?

While an air fryer can’t fully replicate the taste of a freshly baked donut, it’s one of the best methods to revive an older donut’s texture and warmth.

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Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer before reheating the donuts?

While not always essential, preheating can lead to more consistent and optimal results.

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Can I reheat filled donuts in the air fryer?

Yes, but be cautious. The filling can become very hot, especially in cream or jelly-filled donuts. After reheating, let them rest for a couple of minutes before eating.

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Do I need to use oil when reheating donuts in an air fryer?

No, you don’t need any additional oil to reheat donuts in an air fryer. The process uses hot air, not oil, to reheat and crisp the donuts.

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Can I reheat other pastries in the air fryer?

Absolutely! The air fryer is versatile and can reheat a wide range of baked goods, from croissants to muffins, with great results.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
• Air Fryer Homemade Donuts
• Easy Air Fryer Homemade Donut Holes
• Air Fryer Powdered Sugar Donuts
• Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts

Reheating donuts in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to give your leftover donuts a new life; there is nothing better than a warm donut. By following these simple steps, you can have crispy and delicious donuts in a matter of minutes.

So, next time you have leftover donuts (even leftover Krispy Kreme Donuts), don’t throw them away. Instead, grab your air fryer and try this simple reheating method. Enjoy your freshly reheated donuts with a cup of coffee, and savor every delicious bite!