How to Make Air Fryer Jam-Filled Donuts
You can make soft, fluffy donuts in an air fryer by baking them first, letting them cool slightly, and filling them with jam before serving. This method avoids the need for a deep fryer or doughnut maker while still delivering a light, cake-like texture that is popular among home bakers.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 12 donuts (6 batches of 2)
- Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes (includes 10-minute cooling period)
- Air Fryer Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
Equipment Needed
This recipe requires a standard air fryer basket with a capacity of at least 4 quarts. You will also need a small ramekin or heat-safe bowl for mixing the filling, and a spoon or piping bag to inject the jam.
Ingredients
- Self-Rising Flour: 200 grams
- Sugar: 150 grams
- Baking Powder: 2.5 grams
- Milk (whole): 180 grams
- Egg Large: 1 unit (approx. 50 grams)
- Vanilla Extract: 5 grams
- Baking Soda: 0.5 grams
- Salt: 2 grams
- Cream Cheese Spread (for filling): 100 grams (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your air fryer to 175°C (350°F). Line the basket with parchment paper, ensuring it does not touch the heating element.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or large air fryer basket (if your model allows mixing), beat the egg until foamy. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Mix gently to combine.
- Fold Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while stirring with a spatula. Fold just until no streaks of flour remain; do not overmix, as this will make the donuts tough.
- Preheat Basket: Place the prepared parchment-lined air fryer basket into the appliance and preheat for 2 minutes at 175°C (350°F).
- Shape Donuts: Scoop approximately 40 grams of batter per donut onto the parchment paper. Roll them gently to form round shapes, about 3 cm in diameter.
- Air Fry: Arrange the donuts in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes at 175°C (350°F). Rotate the basket halfway through cooking if your model requires it. The donuts are done when golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling: Remove the donuts from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial to allow the structure to set before filling.
- Filling: While the donuts cool, prepare your jam and cream cheese mixture in the ramekin. Once cooled, use a spoon or piping bag to inject the filling into the center of each donut. Allow them to rest for 2 more minutes before serving to let the filling settle.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Dough Too Sticky: If the batter is overly sticky, add an additional 10–15 grams of flour gradually until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Donuts Not Golden: If they are not browning enough after 10 minutes, increase the temperature to 180°C (355°F) and cook for another 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Filling Leaks: Ensure you do not overfill the donuts. Leave a small gap at the top so the jam does not burst out during serving.
Substitutions
You can substitute the self-rising flour with 190 grams all-purpose flour mixed with 1 teaspoon baking powder and 2 grams salt. For a dairy-free option, replace the milk with an equal amount of unsweetened almond milk and use a vegan cream cheese alternative for the filling.
Serving and Storage
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them unfilled; fill them within 1 hour of thawing to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular oven instead?
Yes, but you must preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 12–15 minutes until golden. Air fryers cook faster due to concentrated heat.
Is this recipe safe for children?
The ingredients are generally safe, but ensure all donuts are fully cooked before serving to avoid any risk of undercooked dough.
