Donuts have been a beloved American treat since the 19th century, originally fried in oil. The air‑fryer version is a modern twist that keeps the classic flavor while reducing oil usage, reflecting today’s health‑conscious cooking trends.

In the U.S., you’ll find cake‑style donuts in the Northeast, yeast‑leavened light donuts in the Midwest, and specialty glazes like maple or chocolate in the South. This recipe follows the classic yeast‑leavened style but uses an air fryer for a lighter texture.

Glazed donuts are typically served warm, either as a breakfast treat with coffee or as an afternoon snack. They’re often displayed on a platter at diners, coffee shops, and holiday brunches.

Donuts are popular on National Donut Day (first Friday of June), at baseball games, and during holiday brunches such as Thanksgiving and Christmas when families enjoy sweet baked goods together.

Air fryer donuts achieve a golden exterior and fluffy interior with a fraction of the oil, resulting in less mess, lower fat content, and a quicker cleanup while still delivering the classic donut texture.

Common errors include using milk that’s too hot (killing the yeast), under‑kneading the dough, skipping the first rise, overcrowding the air‑fryer basket, and glazing too early before the donuts have cooled slightly.

The first long rise develops flavor and gluten structure, while the second short rise after shaping gives the donuts a final puff that ensures a light, airy crumb before air frying.

Yes. After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight, then shape and give a short second rise before air frying. Store baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Donuts should be golden‑brown on the outside, slightly crisp on the edges, and spring back gently when pressed. Inside they should be light, airy, and cake‑like with a tender crumb.

The donuts will be golden and have risen noticeably. A quick tap on the bottom should sound hollow, and an internal temperature of about 190°F indicates they are cooked through.

The YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen, hosted by John Kanell, specializes in approachable, modern home‑cooking recipes that blend classic techniques with convenient appliances like air fryers and stand mixers.

Preppy Kitchen focuses on streamlined, equipment‑friendly methods—such as using an air fryer for traditionally fried foods—while still emphasizing flavor and technique, setting it apart from channels that rely on traditional deep‑frying or more elaborate plating.