Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts –Krispy Kreme is known for its warm, sweet donuts that melt in your mouth.

You can make a copycat version of these delicious treats at home with an air fryer! This recipe will be perfect for the next time you’re craving something sweet!

Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts
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There is nothing better than a homemade donut made from scratch, move-over biscuits; today, I am giving you a delicious and straightforward Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts recipe.

If you were looking for something delicious, easy, and healthy (sort of ish), then this recipe is made with Greek Yogurt and Self Rising Flour; this is so much better than the homemade Weight Watcher Bagels we have been talking about.

I love a great batch of fresh donuts, but always I’m not particularly eager to wait for them to rise. I mean, who has time for that. You will get the same fantastic flavor, but without waiting.

If you were looking for even more air fryer donut recipes, some of my favorites AIR FRYER STRAWBERRY DONUTS, EASY CINNAMON SUGAR AIR FRYER DONUT HOLES, AIR FRYER COPYCAT DUNKIN DONUTS CHOCOLATE GLAZED DONUTS, and AIR FRYER SOUR CREAM DONUTS.

Air Fryer Krispy Kreme Donuts

Making Air Fryer Krispy Kreme Donuts brings a delightful twist to the classic treat, offering a lighter version without compromising on that irresistible, sugary goodness. The air fryer method is perfect for creating donuts that are crispy on the outside and soft, airy on the inside, mimicking the deep-fried texture but with significantly less oil. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes it quicker, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm donuts in a fraction of the time it would take to bake or fry them traditionally.

Starting with a simple dough enriched with butter, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, each donut is shaped and then air-fried until golden brown. The magic happens once they’re hot out of the air fryer and dipped into a homemade glaze, achieving that glossy finish that Krispy Kreme donuts are famous for. Whether you’re craving a classic glazed donut or looking to experiment with fillings and toppings, the air fryer offers a versatile and less guilty way to indulge in your favorite sweet treat. Making Krispy Kreme donuts in the air fryer not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also turns donut making into a fun, easy, and less messy kitchen adventure.

Krispy Kreme Donuts

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

The Air Fryer Krispy Kreme Donuts recipe is a delightful game-changer for donut lovers, offering a healthier, hassle-free way to enjoy a classic favorite right from the comfort of your home. Here are compelling reasons why this recipe will become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire:

  • Healthier Option: By air frying instead of deep-frying, you significantly reduce the oil content of the donuts, making them a lighter option without sacrificing the crispy exterior and fluffy interior that define a perfect donut.
  • Quick and Easy: The air fryer accelerates the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm donuts in a fraction of the time required for traditional frying or baking. It’s an ideal solution for satisfying sudden donut cravings or for making quick treats for unexpected guests.
  • Mess-Free Cooking: Air frying means you won’t have to deal with the hassle and mess of deep-frying. There’s no need to manage large quantities of hot oil or worry about splatters, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Versatile and Customizable: This recipe provides a fantastic base that can be customized to your heart’s content. Whether you’re a fan of classic glazed donuts, fancy filled varieties, or enjoy experimenting with different toppings, the air fryer can handle it all, encouraging culinary creativity.
  • Perfect Texture: Achieving the iconic Krispy Kreme texture—crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside—becomes effortlessly possible with an air fryer. It’s the ideal method for replicating that beloved donut shop quality.
  • Fun to Make: From preparing the dough to watching the donuts puff up and turn golden in the air fryer, the entire process is engaging and enjoyable. It’s a fun activity for bakers of all ages and skill levels, including kids who can join in on the glazing and decorating.
  • Cost-Effective: Making Krispy Kreme donuts at home can be significantly more economical than buying them at the store, especially when feeding a crowd. Plus, you have the added advantage of enjoying them fresh out of the “fryer” every time.

Embracing this Air Fryer Krispy Kreme Donuts recipe means indulging in your donut cravings in a healthier, simpler, and more satisfying way. It’s a surefire method to impress family and friends with homemade treats that taste as good as (if not better than) the store-bought originals.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

Embarking on the journey to create Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts at home brings the iconic taste of these beloved treats into your kitchen with a healthier twist. This recipe utilizes a simple yet precise list of ingredients that combine to recreate the distinctive sweet, airy texture and glaze that Krispy Kreme fans adore. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

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.

  • Self-Rising Flour: Utilizing self-rising flour simplifies the dough-making process by combining flour with leavening agents.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast, helping the donuts rise and develop a light, airy structure.
  • Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and regulates yeast growth, ensuring the donuts don’t rise too quickly.
  • Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the dough’s flavor and texture for deliciously airy and tender copycat Air Fryer Krispy Kreme Donuts.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and flavor to the dough, contributing to the donuts’ rich, tender crumb. It’s used both in the dough and for brushing on the finished donuts.
  • Powdered Sugar: The key ingredient for the glaze, providing a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that perfectly coats each donut.
  • Milk: Acts as the base liquid for the dough, contributing to the donuts’ tender texture and richness. Warm milk is also essential for activating the yeast.
  • Vanilla Extract: Infuses the dough with a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the sugary glaze.

How To Make Krispy Kreme Donuts In Air Fryer

Making Krispy Kreme donuts in an air fryer is a delightful way to recreate this iconic treat with less mess and a bit of a healthier twist. Here’s a simplified recipe that captures the essence of the original donuts:

Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts (4)

Make the Dough:

  • Whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add the Greek yogurt and mix it until a dough forms. I like to use my hands for this.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting.
  • On a clean work surface lightly dusted with flour, roll out the dough until it is under 1/2 inch thick.
  • Cut the dough; I like to use a 4-inch cookie cutter and a smaller size to make the donut holes.
Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts (5)

Prepare for Air Frying:

  • Brush the basket with the melted butter or cooking spray.
  • Place the donuts, not touching them, into the basket.
  • Brush with the butter. Air Fry for about 5-6 minutes (at 350 degrees F, air fryer setting) or until lightly golden brown. Repeat with the donut holes (same time and temperature)
Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

Make the Glaze:

While the donuts are air frying up, make the glaze/icing:

  • Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a shallow bowl. You want the glaze to be thin yet thick enough o coat the donuts.
  • When the doughnuts are done cooking, immediately dip them into the glaze and coat them.
  • Place on a wire rack to cool.
Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts (7)

Pro Tips

Mastering Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts can bring the iconic taste of these beloved treats to your kitchen with a healthier twist. Here are some pro tips to ensure your homemade donuts are as delightful as the originals:

  • High-Quality Yogurt: Opt for a good-quality, thick Greek yogurt. It not only adds moisture and richness to the dough but also contributes to the tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
  • Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable. If it’s too sticky to work with, add a little more flour until you can easily shape the donuts.
  • Even Thickness: When rolling out your dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Uneven donuts might cook irregularly, with some parts overcooking while others remain doughy.
  • Clean Cuts: Use a well-floured donut cutter or round cookie cutters for clean edges. Clean cuts help the donuts rise better and create a more appealing final appearance.
  • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat the air fryer for the best results. A preheated air fryer ensures the donuts start cooking immediately, helping to set their shape and texture right away.
  • No Overcrowding: Place donuts in a single layer without touching. Cooking in batches is better than overcrowding, which can lead to unevenly cooked donuts.
  • Flipping: Gently flip the donuts halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
  • Glaze While Warm: Dip the donuts in the glaze while they’re still slightly warm to help the glaze adhere better and soak into the donuts, creating that signature Krispy Kreme experience.
  • Consistency of the Glaze: The glaze should be thin enough to coat the donuts but not so thin that it runs right off. If the glaze is too thick, thin it with a little extra milk.
  • Serve Immediately: These donuts are best enjoyed warm, just like at Krispy Kreme. The warmth enhances the flavors and textures, making them irresistibly good.
  • Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. To revive them, briefly microwave for a few seconds to bring back some of the warmth and softness.

By following these tips, your Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts will not only satisfy your cravings but also impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Enjoy the process of bringing a classic delight into your home with a healthier, air-fried twist.

Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts (3)

Faqs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt? Yes, you can use regular yogurt if Greek yogurt isn’t available. However, Greek yogurt is thicker and richer, contributing to the donuts’ texture and flavor. If using regular yogurt, the dough might be a bit stickier, so you may need to adjust the flour quantity.

What if I don’t have self-rising flour? If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This mixture can be used as a direct substitute for 1 cup of self-rising flour.

Can I make these donuts without an air fryer? While this recipe is designed for an air fryer, you can bake the donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I ensure the donuts are cooked evenly? Preheat your air fryer to ensure a consistent cooking temperature. Also, flipping the donuts halfway through the cooking time promotes even browning and cooking on both sides.

Can I fill these donuts with jelly or cream? Yes, you can fill the air-fried donuts with your favorite fillings like jelly, cream, or chocolate. It’s easier to fill them after they’ve been cooked and cooled slightly. Use a piping bag with a narrow tip to inject the filling into the donuts.

How long do these donuts stay fresh? These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, particularly when they’re still warm. However, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them for a few seconds in the microwave to revive their softness and warmth.

Can I freeze the donuts? Yes, you can freeze the donuts before applying the glaze. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, reheat in the air fryer or oven and then glaze.

How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner? Adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more powdered sugar to thicken it or more milk to thin it out. The glaze should be runny enough to coat the donuts but thick enough to set as it cools.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

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Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts

4.28 from 50 votes
Prep Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 56 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings

Description

This is such an easy and fun way to make breakfast for the entire family. Homemade Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts, and best of all, you do not even have to wait for the dough to rise!

Ingredients 

Donuts:

  • 1 1/2 cup self-rising flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Glaze/Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teapoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt and mix it until a dough forms. I like to use my hands for this.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting. On a clean work surface lightly dusted with flour, roll out the dough until it is a little under 1/2 inch thick.
  • Cut the dough; I like to use a 4-inch cookie cutter, plus a smaller size to make the donut holes.
  • Brush the basket with the melted butter and place the donuts, not touching them into the basket. Brush with the butter. Air Fry for about 5-6 minutes (at 350 degrees F, air fryer setting) or until lightly golden brown. Repeat with the donut holes (same time and temperature)
  • While the donuts are air frying up, make the glaze/icing: To Make the Glaze/Icing: Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a shallow bowl. You want the glaze to be thin yet thick enough o coat the donuts.
  • When the doughnuts are done cooking, immediately dip them into the glaze and coat them all over.
  • Place on a wire rack to cool.
  • Plate, serve, and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 153kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 108mgPotassium: 56mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 122IUCalcium: 34mgIron: 0.2mg

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Air Fryer Copycat Krispy Kreme Donuts