Why You’ll Love Gluten-Free Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

I appreciate how quick and easy these donuts are to prepare. With just a few ingredients and an air fryer, I can have warm homemade donuts ready in about 20 minutes.

I also love the texture. The almond flour provides a soft, slightly nutty base, while the coconut flour helps keep the donuts light and tender. The applesauce adds natural moisture, making every bite soft and flavorful.

Another reason I enjoy this recipe is that it’s naturally gluten-free and uses maple syrup for sweetness. It feels like a lighter treat that still satisfies a donut craving.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Donuts
1 cup Almond flour a great gluten-free base that adds a nutty flavor.
1/4 cup Coconut flour helps absorb moisture and gives the donuts a light texture.
1 tbsp Baking powder ensures your donuts rise beautifully for that fluffy bite.
1/4 cup Maple syrup naturally sweetens and enhances the flavor while keeping it refined sugar-free.
2 Eggs bind all ingredients together and provide richness; for a vegan option, use flax eggs.
1/2 cup Unsweetened applesauce adds moisture and a hint of sweetness, making these donuts wonderfully soft.

For the Glaze
1 cup Powdered sugar gives the glaze its sweet and smooth finish.
2 tbsp Almond milk adds creaminess to the glaze; any plant-based milk works well here.
1 tsp Vanilla extract brings depth of flavor to your glaze.

Directions

I start by preheating my air fryer to 350°F so it’s ready when the batter is prepared.

In a large bowl, I mix the dry ingredients together. I combine the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and maple syrup and whisk until everything is evenly blended.

In another bowl, I combine the wet ingredients by stirring together the eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Next, I gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. I mix just until combined, creating a batter that is thick but still pourable.

I lightly grease a donut mold and spoon the batter into each cavity, filling them about halfway to allow room for the donuts to rise.

I place the mold into the air fryer and cook the donuts for 8 to 10 minutes. When they are done, they look lightly golden and spring back when I touch them.

After cooking, I allow the donuts to cool in the mold for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the glaze, I whisk powdered sugar and almond milk together in a small bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. I dip each cooled donut into the glaze and let the excess drip off before placing them back on the rack to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. When I want a chocolate version, I mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the batter.

For a different topping, I occasionally skip the glaze and roll the donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and powdered sugar. I also like adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top of the glaze for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If I want them to last longer, I keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days.

To enjoy them warm again, I reheat them in the air fryer for about 1 to 2 minutes or microwave them briefly until soft.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without an air fryer?

I can bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 12 to 15 minutes using a donut pan.

Are these donuts truly gluten-free?

Yes, I make them with almond flour and coconut flour, which naturally contain no gluten.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

I replace the eggs with flax eggs, which helps bind the ingredients while keeping the recipe plant-based.

Why is coconut flour used with almond flour?

I like combining them because coconut flour absorbs moisture and helps create a lighter texture.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, I sometimes enjoy them plain or dusted with powdered sugar instead.

How do I know when the donuts are done?

I check that they are lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed.

Can I freeze these donuts?

I freeze them without the glaze in an airtight container for up to two months and glaze them after thawing.

What if my batter seems too thick?

I add a small splash of almond milk to loosen the batter slightly.

Can I use a different plant-based milk?

Yes, I often substitute oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk with good results.

How can I make them sweeter?

I drizzle extra glaze on top or add a little more maple syrup to the batter.

Conclusion

I enjoy how simple and satisfying these gluten-free air fryer donuts are to make. The soft texture, lightly sweet flavor, and smooth glaze create a delicious treat that comes together quickly. Whenever I want a homemade donut without much effort, this recipe is one I always come back to.