Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

When the crisp autumn air arrives, there is nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon and pumpkin wafting through the kitchen. These Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts are the ultimate fall treat, offering all the cozy flavors of a traditional bakery donut without the mess and hassle of deep-frying. They are soft, cakey, and coated in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar layer that makes every bite feel like a celebration of the season.

Using an air fryer makes these donuts incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you are looking for a special weekend breakfast or a sweet snack to pair with your afternoon coffee, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results in under half an hour. Your family will love how light and fluffy they are, and you will love how much healthier they are compared to their oil-soaked counterparts.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 12 donuts
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 195 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 220mg

Why Make This Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

These donuts are a game-changer for anyone who loves fall flavors but wants to avoid the heavy feeling of fried dough. By using the air fryer, you achieve a beautiful golden exterior and a tender crumb using significantly less oil. It is a faster, cleaner, and more convenient way to enjoy homemade treats.

The addition of real pumpkin puree ensures these donuts stay moist for days. Combined with a blend of warm spices like nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, these treats capture the essence of autumn in every mouthful. Plus, the process is so simple that even kids can help with the dipping and decorating!

How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Making these donuts is a straightforward process that involves mixing your wet and dry ingredients separately before bringing them together into a thick, fragrant batter. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfect results every time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the coating: 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Molds

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease silicone donut molds with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the donuts pop out easily after cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until the flour disappears. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough.

Step 5: Fill the Molds

Transfer the batter into a large piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared silicone molds, filling them about three-quarters of the way full.

Step 6: Air Fry the Donuts

Place the molds in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Work in batches if necessary.

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Remove the donuts and let them cool for 2 minutes. Dip each warm donut into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

These donuts are best served warm, right after they have been coated in sugar. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, a pumpkin spice latte, or a glass of cold apple cider. For a more indulgent dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To regain that “just-made” texture, reheat them in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 300°F before serving. You can also freeze the un-sugared donuts for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Always use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the recipe. When filling your molds, piping the batter ensures a much cleaner shape than using a spoon. Finally, make sure to coat the donuts while they are still warm so the butter and sugar stick properly to the surface.

Delicious Variations

If you want to change things up, try adding half a cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a “pumpkin chocolate chip” version. You can also skip the cinnamon sugar and top the cooled donuts with a simple maple glaze made of powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk. For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these without silicone donut molds?

Yes, if you don’t have molds, you can drop spoonfuls of batter onto parchment paper to make “donut holes” or “muffin tops.” Adjust the cook time to 5-6 minutes.

Q: Why are my donuts dense instead of fluffy?

This usually happens if the batter is overmixed. Mix the ingredients only until they are just combined to keep the texture light and airy.

Q: Do I need to flip the donuts in the air fryer?

No, there is no need to flip them. The circulating air in the fryer will cook them evenly from all sides while they are in the molds.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results.

Q: How do I know when the donuts are finished cooking?

The donuts should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted into the thickest part should come out clean.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts are the perfect solution for satisfying those fall cravings in a quick and healthy way. With their soft texture and aromatic spices, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the cozy taste of autumn without ever turning on your oven!

Print