Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts: 8 Simple Steps to Bliss

Name: Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts: 8 Simple Steps to Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tablespoon melted butter; Cooking spray for air fryer

July 22, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these air fryer pumpkin spice donuts! They’re seriously one of my favorite treats to whip up at home, especially when the leaves start to change and that cozy fall vibe kicks in. These donuts are fluffy, perfectly spiced, and packed with the delightful flavor of pumpkin that just screams autumn. Trust me, every bite is like a warm hug!

air fryer pumpkin spice donuts - detail 1

I remember the first time I made these – my kitchen smelled absolutely heavenly! The air fryer makes them so easy to prepare, and I love how quickly they come together. You won’t believe how simple it is to create these little rings of joy. Plus, they’re a healthier twist on traditional donuts since they’re air-fried instead of deep-fried. So, you can indulge a bit without the guilt! My friends and family rave about them, and I just know you’ll love them too. Get ready to impress everyone with these seasonal delights!

Ingredients List

1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base of our donuts, giving them that perfect fluffy texture.
1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Use canned or homemade pumpkin puree for that rich, moist flavor we all adore.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
1/4 cup brown sugar: The molasses in brown sugar gives a deeper flavor and a touch of moisture.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the donuts rise to fluffy perfection.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works in tandem with the baking powder for that extra lift.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: This delightful blend of spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice) brings the warm fall flavors to life.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch! It enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1 large egg: This binds everything together and adds richness.
1/4 cup milk: Whole milk is best for moisture, but any milk will do!
1 tablespoon melted butter: Adds a touch of richness and flavor to the batter.
Cooking spray for air fryer: A must to prevent sticking and to ensure easy release of those lovely donuts.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring that your donuts cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden-brown color. Trust me, preheating makes all the difference in texture!

Prepare Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s dive into the dry ingredients. In a mixing bowl, measure out your 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give them a good whisk together until well combined. This step is important because it ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, giving your donuts that delightful rise and flavor!

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, it’s time to bring the wet ingredients together! Whisk together 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. I love this part because you can really smell the warm spices and pumpkin coming together – it’s like autumn in a bowl!

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Next, we’ll combine our dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This helps keep your donuts nice and fluffy. You want to maintain that light and airy texture that makes them so irresistible.

Prepare Donut Molds

Now, let’s get those donut molds ready! Spray your donut molds with cooking spray to prevent sticking – it’s a game changer! Then, carefully fill each mold about halfway with the batter. Don’t overfill, as they will rise while cooking. I usually use a piping bag for this step; it makes it so much easier and less messy!

Air Fry the Donuts

Time to air fry! Place the filled molds in your preheated air fryer and cook for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary slightly in cooking time.

Cool and Remove from Molds

Once they’re done, let the donuts cool in the molds for a few minutes before gently removing them. This step is essential to ensure they hold their shape and don’t crumble. I usually let them cool on a wire rack, which helps keep them from getting soggy. The anticipation of tasting one is almost too much to bear!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make these air fryer pumpkin spice donuts absolutely perfect! Here are my tried-and-true tips that’ll help you nail this recipe every time:

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are key! Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially with flour. Too much flour can lead to dense donuts, and nobody wants that!
Avoid Overmixing: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. You want them fluffy and light, not chewy!
Check Your Air Fryer: Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on your donuts as they cook. A toothpick test is your best friend here – if it comes out clean, you’re golden!
Let Them Cool: After air frying, allow your donuts to cool in the molds for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart.
Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray: A generous spray of cooking spray in your molds is essential to prevent sticking. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when they pop out effortlessly!
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice to your taste. If you love cinnamon, add a little extra! It’s all about finding that balance that you enjoy.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most delightful pumpkin spice donuts that will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking!

Variations and Additions

If you’re anything like me, you love to play around with recipes to make them your own. These air fryer pumpkin spice donuts are a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Here are some fun variations and additions to consider:

Chocolate Chips: Who doesn’t love a little chocolate? Toss in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into your batter for a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite. It’s a match made in heaven with pumpkin!
Nuts: For a little crunch, try adding 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. They bring a lovely texture and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Glaze: Drizzle your donuts with a simple glaze made from 1 cup of powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a dash of vanilla extract. Just whisk it all together until smooth, and drizzle it over the cooled donuts for a sweet finishing touch!
Maple Icing: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, mix up a maple icing by combining 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and a little milk until you reach your desired consistency. It adds a lovely autumn flavor!
Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices! If you adore cinnamon, add an extra pinch, or try a dash of ginger or nutmeg for an added kick. Adjusting the spices can give your donuts a whole new personality!
Stuffed Donuts: Get creative and stuff your donuts! After they’ve cooled, you can pipe in some cream cheese frosting or chocolate hazelnut spread for a delicious surprise inside.

These variations let you customize your donuts to suit your taste or the occasion. So don’t be afraid to get a little creative – the possibilities are endless! Enjoy experimenting and making these treats uniquely yours!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious air fryer pumpkin spice donuts fresh and tasty! You’ll want to store them in an airtight container to maintain their lovely texture and flavor. Simply place the cooled donuts in the container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days on your countertop. I usually keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

If you find yourself with leftovers (and trust me, it’s hard not to munch them all!), you can also freeze them for later enjoyment! Just wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy!

Now, about reheating – if you want to warm them up and bring back that fresh-baked vibe, it’s super easy! Pop them in the air fryer for just a minute or two at 300°F (150°C). This helps restore that fluffy texture without drying them out. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it – just heat them for about 10-15 seconds to avoid them becoming too chewy.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the joy of your pumpkin spice donuts well beyond the first day. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional information for these delightful air fryer pumpkin spice donuts. Each donut is about 150 calories, making them a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per donut:

Calories: 150
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients and may vary depending on specific brands or variations you choose. But isn’t it nice to know that you can indulge in something so delicious without a ton of guilt? Enjoy your pumpkin spice donuts and all the cozy vibes they bring!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use applesauce or mashed bananas for a different flavor, but keep in mind it will change the overall taste and texture a bit. Just make sure whatever you use is thick enough to provide moisture!

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of allspice or cloves. It’ll give you that warm, cozy flavor we all love!

How do I adjust the cooking time for different air fryer models?
Every air fryer is a little different, so it’s a good idea to check on the donuts a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up. If your air fryer runs hot, they might be done sooner. Just keep an eye on them and use the toothpick test!

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a little to help with the texture. They’ll still be delightful!

How should I store leftovers?
Store your cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!

Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Sure! You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, or if you prefer a sugar-free option, use a sugar substitute designed for baking. Just check the conversion rates, as they can vary!

What if I want my donuts to be more cake-like?
If you prefer a more cake-like texture, you can add an extra egg and a tablespoon of milk to the batter. This will give them a denser, richer feel while still keeping that lovely pumpkin flavor.

Can I make these in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them in a greased donut pan for about 12-15 minutes, or until they pass the toothpick test. They’ll be just as delicious!

For more information on the health benefits of pumpkin, check out this Healthline article. You’ll find that pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!

To learn more about the science of baking and how ingredients interact, visit this King Arthur Baking resource. It’s a great way to improve your baking skills!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.