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Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts Delicious Holiday Treat

by on July 2, 2025

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Get ready to bring the holiday spirit to your kitchen with these Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts! They’re soft, spiced, and full of festive cheer. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delightful treats that are sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting, this recipe will guide you to a tasty batch of gingerbread goodness. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1 large egg, beaten - 1 tablespoon molasses - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Cooking spray To make these air fryer gingerbread donuts, gather all your ingredients first. This makes cooking easier and more fun. Each ingredient plays a big role in flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour gives the donuts structure. Brown sugar adds sweetness and a touch of moisture. Ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring warm, festive flavors. Baking soda and baking powder help the donuts rise and stay fluffy. Applesauce keeps the donuts moist and adds natural sweetness. The egg binds everything together. Molasses adds rich flavor, while vanilla gives a warm note. Finally, cooking spray is key. It prevents sticking and helps the donuts come out of the mold easily. Keep these ingredients handy, and let’s get ready to bake! {{ingredient_image_2}} In a large bowl, combine these dry ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt Whisk everything together well. Mixing evenly is key. This helps the flavors spread throughout the donuts. In another bowl, blend the following wet ingredients: - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1 large egg, beaten - 1 tablespoon molasses - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir until the mixture is smooth. A good blend makes your donuts moist and flavorful. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula until just mixed. It’s okay if some small lumps remain. Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This takes about 5 minutes. While it heats, prepare your donut mold. Lightly spray it with cooking spray to help the donuts release easily. Spoon the gingerbread batter into the donut mold. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full. This gives the donuts room to rise. Place the filled mold into the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes. The donuts should be golden brown. Use a toothpick to check if they are done. After cooking, let the donuts cool in the mold for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can add a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze. A simple glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of water. Enjoy your holiday treat! To make great gingerbread donuts, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key for even cooking. Each air fryer is different, so check your model's manual. Some may need a bit more or less time. Keep an eye on the donuts as they cook. Do not overmix the batter. Mix just until combined. A few lumps in the mixture are okay. Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Look for a golden brown color and a clean toothpick when checking for doneness. These signs mean your donuts are ready. For special occasions, present your donuts on a festive platter. A sprinkle of cinnamon or colorful sprinkles adds a nice touch. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze. These details make your donuts even more appealing. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the taste of your donuts. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are done. If it comes out clean, they are ready; if not, give them another minute or two. Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try different types of glazes or toppings like crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and flavor. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your gingerbread donuts. Adding chocolate chips brings a sweet twist. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter. If you want a nutty crunch, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. For a spicier kick, swap in cardamom or allspice for some of the ginger. This can create a unique taste that surprises your guests. If you need gluten-free donuts, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great options that work well in baking. For a vegan version, replace the egg with an extra 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the texture moist and fluffy. You can also use a plant-based egg substitute if you prefer. The applesauce will still add the sweetness you love. The glaze is where you can get creative. A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and a splash of water. For added flavor, mix in some vanilla or almond extract. Want something festive? Try a cream cheese frosting. Just blend cream cheese with powdered sugar and a little milk until smooth. For toppings, consider crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or even toasted coconut. These will add a fun touch to your donuts. To keep your Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method keeps the donuts soft and tasty. Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, refrigeration is a great choice. Freezing your donuts is easy! First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm them in the air fryer for about 3 minutes at 350°F (175°C). When stored properly, these donuts last for about 5 days in the fridge. If frozen, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying. The key to delicious donuts is proper storage! To check if the donuts are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready. If it has batter on it, cook them a bit longer. I recommend checking around the 5-minute mark. This way, you avoid overcooking. Yes, you can use a normal oven! Just preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled donut mold on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't dry out. Use the toothpick test to check doneness as well. If you lack a donut mold, you have options! You can use muffin tins instead. Fill them halfway to create donut-shaped muffins. Another option is to shape the batter into rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just make sure they’re thick enough to hold their shape. You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like clove or cardamom. For decoration, try a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk. Add festive sprinkles on top for color. You could also dust them with cinnamon or drizzle melted chocolate for a fun touch! You now have a complete guide to making delicious air fryer donuts. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your donuts. There are also fun variations and storage tips to keep them fresh. Use your creativity to customize flavors and presentations. Remember, air frying offers a healthier twist to traditional frying. Enjoy making these tasty treats!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Festive Flavor: These gingerbread donuts capture the essence of the holiday season with their warm spices and sweet aroma, making them a perfect treat for any festive gathering.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to whip up a batch in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy holiday mornings or last-minute desserts.
  3. Healthier Twist: Using unsweetened applesauce and whole spices not only enhances the flavor but also makes these donuts a healthier alternative to traditional fried treats.
  4. Customizable Toppings: Whether you prefer a light dusting of powdered sugar or a rich glaze, these donuts can be dressed up to suit your taste and occasion.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

– 1 large egg, beaten

– 1 tablespoon molasses

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Cooking spray

To make these air fryer gingerbread donuts, gather all your ingredients first. This makes cooking easier and more fun. Each ingredient plays a big role in flavor and texture.

The all-purpose flour gives the donuts structure. Brown sugar adds sweetness and a touch of moisture. Ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring warm, festive flavors. Baking soda and baking powder help the donuts rise and stay fluffy.

Applesauce keeps the donuts moist and adds natural sweetness. The egg binds everything together. Molasses adds rich flavor, while vanilla gives a warm note. Finally, cooking spray is key. It prevents sticking and helps the donuts come out of the mold easily.

Keep these ingredients handy, and let’s get ready to bake!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine these dry ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Whisk everything together well. Mixing evenly is key. This helps the flavors spread throughout the donuts.

Preparing the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, blend the following wet ingredients:

– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

– 1 large egg, beaten

– 1 tablespoon molasses

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir until the mixture is smooth. A good blend makes your donuts moist and flavorful.

Combining Mixtures

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula until just mixed. It’s okay if some small lumps remain. Overmixing can make the donuts tough.

Air Fryer Preparation

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This takes about 5 minutes. While it heats, prepare your donut mold. Lightly spray it with cooking spray to help the donuts release easily.

Filling and Cooking

Spoon the gingerbread batter into the donut mold. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full. This gives the donuts room to rise. Place the filled mold into the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes. The donuts should be golden brown. Use a toothpick to check if they are done.

Cooling and Finishing Touches

After cooking, let the donuts cool in the mold for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can add a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze. A simple glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of water. Enjoy your holiday treat!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Air Frying

To make great gingerbread donuts, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key for even cooking. Each air fryer is different, so check your model’s manual. Some may need a bit more or less time. Keep an eye on the donuts as they cook.

Achieving Perfect Texture

Do not overmix the batter. Mix just until combined. A few lumps in the mixture are okay. Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Look for a golden brown color and a clean toothpick when checking for doneness. These signs mean your donuts are ready.

Serving Suggestions

For special occasions, present your donuts on a festive platter. A sprinkle of cinnamon or colorful sprinkles adds a nice touch. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze. These details make your donuts even more appealing.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the taste of your donuts.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
  3. Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are done. If it comes out clean, they are ready; if not, give them another minute or two.
  4. Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try different types of glazes or toppings like crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and flavor.

Variations

Flavor Modifications

You can easily change the flavor of your gingerbread donuts. Adding chocolate chips brings a sweet twist. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter. If you want a nutty crunch, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. For a spicier kick, swap in cardamom or allspice for some of the ginger. This can create a unique taste that surprises your guests.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need gluten-free donuts, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great options that work well in baking. For a vegan version, replace the egg with an extra 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the texture moist and fluffy. You can also use a plant-based egg substitute if you prefer. The applesauce will still add the sweetness you love.

Glaze and Topping Alternatives

The glaze is where you can get creative. A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and a splash of water. For added flavor, mix in some vanilla or almond extract. Want something festive? Try a cream cheese frosting. Just blend cream cheese with powdered sugar and a little milk until smooth. For toppings, consider crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or even toasted coconut. These will add a fun touch to your donuts.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method keeps the donuts soft and tasty. Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, refrigeration is a great choice.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing your donuts is easy! First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm them in the air fryer for about 3 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Shelf Life

When stored properly, these donuts last for about 5 days in the fridge. If frozen, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying. The key to delicious donuts is proper storage!

FAQs

How do I know when the donuts are done cooking?

To check if the donuts are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready. If it has batter on it, cook them a bit longer. I recommend checking around the 5-minute mark. This way, you avoid overcooking.

Can I use a normal oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can use a normal oven! Just preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled donut mold on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out. Use the toothpick test to check doneness as well.

What can I do if I don’t have a donut mold?

If you lack a donut mold, you have options! You can use muffin tins instead. Fill them halfway to create donut-shaped muffins. Another option is to shape the batter into rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just make sure they’re thick enough to hold their shape.

How can I make these donuts more festive for the holidays?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like clove or cardamom. For decoration, try a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk. Add festive sprinkles on top for color. You could also dust them with cinnamon or drizzle melted chocolate for a fun touch!

You now have a complete guide to making delicious air fryer donuts. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your donuts. There are also fun variations and storage tips to keep them fresh. Use your creativity to customize flavors and presentations. Remember, air frying offers a healthier twist to traditional frying. Enjoy making these tasty treat

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1 large egg, beaten - 1 tablespoon molasses - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Cooking spray To make these air fryer gingerbread donuts, gather all your ingredients first. This makes cooking easier and more fun. Each ingredient plays a big role in flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour gives the donuts structure. Brown sugar adds sweetness and a touch of moisture. Ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring warm, festive flavors. Baking soda and baking powder help the donuts rise and stay fluffy. Applesauce keeps the donuts moist and adds natural sweetness. The egg binds everything together. Molasses adds rich flavor, while vanilla gives a warm note. Finally, cooking spray is key. It prevents sticking and helps the donuts come out of the mold easily. Keep these ingredients handy, and let’s get ready to bake! {{ingredient_image_2}} In a large bowl, combine these dry ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt Whisk everything together well. Mixing evenly is key. This helps the flavors spread throughout the donuts. In another bowl, blend the following wet ingredients: - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1 large egg, beaten - 1 tablespoon molasses - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir until the mixture is smooth. A good blend makes your donuts moist and flavorful. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula until just mixed. It’s okay if some small lumps remain. Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This takes about 5 minutes. While it heats, prepare your donut mold. Lightly spray it with cooking spray to help the donuts release easily. Spoon the gingerbread batter into the donut mold. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full. This gives the donuts room to rise. Place the filled mold into the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes. The donuts should be golden brown. Use a toothpick to check if they are done. After cooking, let the donuts cool in the mold for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can add a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze. A simple glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of water. Enjoy your holiday treat! To make great gingerbread donuts, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key for even cooking. Each air fryer is different, so check your model's manual. Some may need a bit more or less time. Keep an eye on the donuts as they cook. Do not overmix the batter. Mix just until combined. A few lumps in the mixture are okay. Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Look for a golden brown color and a clean toothpick when checking for doneness. These signs mean your donuts are ready. For special occasions, present your donuts on a festive platter. A sprinkle of cinnamon or colorful sprinkles adds a nice touch. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze. These details make your donuts even more appealing. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the taste of your donuts. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are done. If it comes out clean, they are ready; if not, give them another minute or two. Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try different types of glazes or toppings like crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and flavor. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your gingerbread donuts. Adding chocolate chips brings a sweet twist. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter. If you want a nutty crunch, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. For a spicier kick, swap in cardamom or allspice for some of the ginger. This can create a unique taste that surprises your guests. If you need gluten-free donuts, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great options that work well in baking. For a vegan version, replace the egg with an extra 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the texture moist and fluffy. You can also use a plant-based egg substitute if you prefer. The applesauce will still add the sweetness you love. The glaze is where you can get creative. A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and a splash of water. For added flavor, mix in some vanilla or almond extract. Want something festive? Try a cream cheese frosting. Just blend cream cheese with powdered sugar and a little milk until smooth. For toppings, consider crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or even toasted coconut. These will add a fun touch to your donuts. To keep your Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method keeps the donuts soft and tasty. Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, refrigeration is a great choice. Freezing your donuts is easy! First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm them in the air fryer for about 3 minutes at 350°F (175°C). When stored properly, these donuts last for about 5 days in the fridge. If frozen, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying. The key to delicious donuts is proper storage! To check if the donuts are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready. If it has batter on it, cook them a bit longer. I recommend checking around the 5-minute mark. This way, you avoid overcooking. Yes, you can use a normal oven! Just preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled donut mold on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't dry out. Use the toothpick test to check doneness as well. If you lack a donut mold, you have options! You can use muffin tins instead. Fill them halfway to create donut-shaped muffins. Another option is to shape the batter into rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just make sure they’re thick enough to hold their shape. You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like clove or cardamom. For decoration, try a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk. Add festive sprinkles on top for color. You could also dust them with cinnamon or drizzle melted chocolate for a fun touch! You now have a complete guide to making delicious air fryer donuts. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your donuts. There are also fun variations and storage tips to keep them fresh. Use your creativity to customize flavors and presentations. Remember, air frying offers a healthier twist to traditional frying. Enjoy making these tasty treats!

Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts

Delicious gingerbread donuts made in an air fryer, perfect for the holiday season.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 spray cooking spray

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce, beaten egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-blended.
  • Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently stirring with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Lightly spray your donut mold with cooking spray to ensure easy release after cooking.
  • Carefully spoon the gingerbread batter into the donut mold, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
  • Place the filled donut mold into the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the donuts to cool in the mold for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or dip in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with a splash of water for extra sweetness.

Notes

Serve the donuts on a festive platter, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or festive sprinkles.
Keyword air fryer, donuts, gingerbread, holiday

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