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Air Fryer Fried Dough

Name: Air Fryer Fried Dough
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 can buttermilk biscuits with butter; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: June 19, 2019

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Air Fryer Fried Dough — Embrace the joy of homemade treats with this delightful Air Fryer Fried Dough recipe, a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of traditional frying.

This recipe transforms a simple dough into golden, fluffy delights, all within the convenience of your air fryer. Perfect for those seeking the comforting warmth of freshly made fried dough without the excess oil and mess of deep-frying, this method offers a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture.

_Air Fryer Fried Dough

Air Fryer Fried Dough is fantastic! My 15-year-old came up with this recipe one night after a hockey game, and he made one for each of his teammates. And it’s so good; you won’t believe it.

Like everything in our house, I encourage my kids to cook, try new things, and have fun; this is so good!

I am pretty sure that if you have kids (both young and old), they will love this. And it’s a perfect cooking project for you and the kids or a quick dessert for the entire family! And you don’t need many ingredients, that’s the beauty of this recipe, simple and delicious!

Looking for some other quick and easy air fryer dessert recipes, some of my family’s favorites are AIR FRYER EASY FUNFETTI CAKE MIX DONUTS, AIR FRYER COPYCAT KRISPY KREME DONUTS, AIR FRYER 2 INGREDIENT OREO MUG CAKE, and AIR FRYER PEANUT BUTTER BANANA EGG ROLLS.

_Air Fryer Fried Dough

What Is Fried Dough?

Traditional fried dough is a beloved treat found in various forms across different cultures worldwide. It is a portion of dough that’s been stretched, flattened, or shaped and then deep-fried in oil until it achieves a golden and crispy exterior with a soft, airy interior.

This versatile delicacy can be served as a sweet or savory snack, depending on the toppings and fillings used. In its lovely form, fried dough is often dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar or drizzled with honey, chocolate, or fruit sauces. Savory versions might be sprinkled with cheese, garlic, or herbs.

The appeal of fried dough lies in its simple ingredients, ease of preparation, and the delightful contrast between its crispy outside and tender inside. It embodies the joy of comfort eating, often evoking fond memories of fairs, festivals, and family gatherings.

Can You Make Fried Dough In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can make fried dough in an air fryer, and it’s a fantastic method for several reasons. Using an air fryer to cook fried dough offers a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-frying method, significantly reducing the amount of oil needed while still achieving that desirable crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. The air fryer circulates hot air around the dough, cooking it evenly and quickly, which means you can enjoy your favorite treat without the guilt and mess of oil.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’ll find plenty to love about this Air Fryer Fried Dough recipe, from its simplicity to its delightful taste. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe will become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire:

Healthier Option: Enjoy the decadence of fried dough without the deep-frying. Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil used, offering a lighter version of your favorite treat while still delivering that irresistible crispy texture.
Quick and Convenient: Say goodbye to lengthy prep times and standing over a hot stove. The air fryer cooks the fried dough quickly and evenly, freeing up your time without compromising on the quality of your dessert.
Easy Cleanup: Without the mess of oil splatter from deep frying, cleanup is a breeze. The air fryer basket is typically non-stick and dishwasher safe, making post-cooking tidy-up easier.
Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for many toppings. Whether you prefer classic powdered sugar, cinnamon, or something more adventurous like chocolate sauce or fruit compote, you can easily tailor your fried dough to suit any taste.
Perfect Texture: Achieve the perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior that is the hallmark of excellent fried dough. The air fryer ensures even cooking, so every bite is as good as the last.
Family-Friendly Cooking: Involve the whole family in making air fryer fried dough. It’s a fun and simple recipe that can encourage kids to learn cooking skills and experiment with different flavors.
Year-Round Enjoyment: No need to wait for the fair or carnival season to enjoy fried dough. With this air fryer recipe, you can whip up this beloved treat anytime you crave it, right in the comfort of your home.
Impress Guests: Serve up something unique and delightful at your next gathering. Air fryer fried dough is a surefire way to impress your guests with minimal effort, especially when customizing toppings for a gourmet touch.

This Air Fryer Fried Dough recipe embodies the joy of cooking and eating, offering a healthier, quicker, and mess-free way to indulge in a classic favorite. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night, this recipe promises satisfaction and fun for everyone involved.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Fried Dough

Delight in the simplicity and deliciousness of Air Fryer Fried Dough, a recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a treat sure to please. Here’s what you’ll need:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Buttermilk Biscuits: The foundation of this recipe is refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, which provide a convenient and time-saving start, offering a soft, tender base that puffs up beautifully when air-fried.
Butter: Melted butter brushed over the cooked dough adds a rich, indulgent flavor and helps the powdered sugar and cinnamon adhere, creating a perfectly moist and flavorful exterior.
Powdered Sugar: A dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet, refined finish that melts in your mouth, complementing the buttery dough with a light, snowy topping.
Ground Cinnamon: Mixing ground cinnamon with powdered sugar introduces a warm, spicy note that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness, offering a classic flavor combination that elevates the fried dough.

Together, these ingredients create a delightful Air Fryer Fried Dough that’s not only easy to make but also irresistibly tasty, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings with minimal effort.

How To Make Air Fryer Fried Dough

Creating Air Fryer Fried Dough is a simple process that results in a deliciously indulgent treat. Here’s how to make it with just a few ingredients:

Preparation:

Start by removing the buttermilk biscuits from the can. Lay them out on a large cutting board.
Using a rolling pin, gently flatten each biscuit into larger circles, approximately 1/4 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and give you more surface area for toppings.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) if your model requires preheating. This ensures the dough cooks evenly and becomes perfectly golden.

Air Fry the Dough:

Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray or brush with melted butter to prevent sticking.
Place the flattened biscuits into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, flip the dough and continue to air fry for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.

Add the Toppings:

Once cooked, carefully remove the fried dough from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate.
While still warm, brush each fried dough with melted butter. Then, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top, adding ground cinnamon if desired. The warmth of the dough will melt the butter, allowing the sugar and cinnamon to stick and create a deliciously sweet coating.
Serve the Air Fryer Fried Dough warm, as is, or with additional toppings of your choice, such as chocolate sauce, fruit compote, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer Fried Dough is a canvas for culinary creativity, allowing numerous variations to suit any taste preference or occasion. Here are some delicious twists on the classic recipe to keep your taste buds excited:

Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread and Banana: After air frying, spread a generous layer of chocolate-hazelnut spread over the warm dough. Top with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for a decadent treat.
Savory Cheese & Garlic: Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush over the cooked dough. Sprinkle shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar) on top and return to the air fryer for a minute or until the cheese melts. Finish with a dash of parsley for a savory version.
Apple Cinnamon Delight: Top the fried dough with warm sautéed apples cooked with butter, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra sweet finish.
Pizza Style Fried Dough: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the fried dough, add shredded mozzarella and your choice of pizza toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms). Air fry until the cheese is bubbly for a quick pizza fix.
Lemon Sugar: Combine powdered sugar with finely grated lemon zest. Brush the fried dough with melted butter and sprinkle the lemon sugar mixture over the top for a refreshing citrus twist.
Jelly or Jam Glazed: Warm your favorite jelly or jam until easily spreadable. Brush over the fried dough and sprinkle with powdered sugar. This variation is simple yet satisfyingly sweet.
Nutella and Marshmallow: Spread Nutella over the fried dough and top with mini marshmallows. Return to the air fryer for a few seconds until the marshmallows melt. It’s a gooey, chocolatey treat that’s sure to please.
Pumpkin Spice: Mix powdered sugar with pumpkin spice seasoning and sprinkle it over the buttered fried dough. This is perfect for fall and brings all the warm spices to your treat.
Honey and Almonds: Drizzle honey over the cooked dough and sprinkle with sliced almonds and a pinch of sea salt. The combination of sweet honey and crunchy almonds is irresistible.
Bacon and Maple: Top the fried dough with crispy bacon bits and a generous drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination that echoes the breakfast flavors.

Each of these variations on Air Fryer Fried Dough introduces new flavors and textures, making it a versatile recipe that can cater to any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or a bit of both, a fried dough variation will surely hit the spot.

Pro Tips

Making the perfect Air Fryer Fried Dough requires some know-how and tricks up your sleeve. Here are pro tips to ensure your fried dough turns out delicious every single time:

Roll Evenly: When flattening the dough, aim for even thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents parts of the dough from being under or overcooked.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that your fried dough starts cooking at the optimal temperature immediately, promoting even browning and crisping.
Use Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, consider placing a piece of parchment paper in the basket of your air fryer. Just make sure it’s perforated or add holes to allow airflow.
Do Not Overcrowd: Air fryers circulate hot air around the food. Overcrowding the basket will prevent the dough from cooking evenly and achieving that desired crispy texture.
Flip Halfway Through: Flip the fried dough halfway through the cooking time for even browning and cooking. This little step can make a big difference in the outcome.
Brush, Don’t Soak: When applying melted butter or other toppings, gently coat the fried dough with a pastry brush. This method ensures every nook and cranny is deliciously seasoned without making the dough soggy.
Customize Your Toppings: The beauty of fried dough is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with various toppings based on your preference or whatever you have on hand. There are endless possibilities: sweet, savory, or a mix of both.
Serve Immediately: Fried dough is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the air fryer. This is when it’s at its crispiest and most delicious. If you must wait, keep it in a warm oven to maintain its texture.
Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Depending on the size and thickness of your dough, as well as the specific model of your air fryer, you may need to adjust cooking times. Start checking a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests to prevent overcooking.
Experiment with Dough Types: While buttermilk biscuits are a quick and convenient option, don’t shy away from trying different types of dough, like pizza dough or homemade dough, for varied textures and flavors.

Following these tips will elevate your Air Fryer Fried Dough to a new level of yum. Whether making a treat for yourself or your family or entertaining guests, these pointers will help you achieve fried dough perfection every time.

Faq’s

Can I make fried dough from scratch in the air fryer? Absolutely! While this recipe uses buttermilk biscuits for convenience, you can also make fried dough from scratch using simple flour, water, yeast, and salt dough. Just let it rise, shape it, and follow the air frying instructions.

How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the air fryer basket? To prevent sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or use parchment paper with holes in it. This allows air circulation while preventing the dough from sticking.

Can I use puff pastry or pizza dough instead of buttermilk biscuits? Yes, puff pastry or pizza dough are great alternatives for making fried dough in the air fryer. Roll them out thinly, cut them into desired shapes, and air fry them. Adjust cooking times as necessary, as these doughs may cook differently than buttermilk biscuits.

How do I know when the fried dough is fully cooked? The fried dough is done when it has a golden brown color and a crispy texture. Cooking times may vary based on the air fryer model and dough thickness, so start checking a few minutes before the suggested time.

Can I make fried dough ahead of time? Fried dough is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. For best results, air fry just before serving.

How can I reheat leftover fried dough? Reheat leftover fried dough in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or until it’s heated and crispy again. This method helps preserve the texture better than microwaving.

Is air fryer fried dough healthier than traditional fried dough? Yes, air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional deep frying, making it a healthier option. While it still contains carbs and fats, the overall calorie and fat content are lower.

Can I double the recipe? You can double the recipe, but air fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy texture.

What other toppings can I use? The possibilities are endless! Apart from the classic powdered sugar and cinnamon, try toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate chips, or savory options like grated cheese and herbs.

Can I make fried dough balls instead of flat shapes? Yes, you can shape the dough into balls for a bite-sized treat. Adjust the cooking time, as smaller shapes may cook faster. Be sure to turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.

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