Amazing 1-Can Filled Air Fryer Donuts

Oh, the joy of a freshly made donut! That slight crisp on the outside, giving way to a fluffy, sweet interior… pure bliss, right? But let’s be honest, deep-frying at home can be a bit messy and, well, a lot of work. That’s where my absolute favorite kitchen gadget, the air fryer, comes in! I am SO excited to share my recipe for Filled Air Fryer Donuts. Seriously, these turn out unbelievably good, and you get that amazing baked-donut texture, complete with your favorite fillings, in a fraction of the time and with way less fuss. It’s my go-to for a weekend treat when the craving hits hard!

Why You’ll Love These Filled Air Fryer Donuts

Honestly, these little beauties are a game-changer, and here’s why you’ll be making them again and again:

• So Incredibly Easy: Forget complicated doughs! We’re using simple crescent rolls, so you can whip these up in a flash.
• Lightning Fast: The air fryer works its magic quickly, so you go from craving to enjoying your donut in no time.
• Endlessly Customizable: The best part? You fill ’em with whatever makes you happy – jam, cream, chocolate, you name it!
• A Lighter Indulgence: Get that satisfying donut experience with way less oil than traditional frying methods.
• Basically No Mess: Seriously, clean-up is a breeze compared to a deep-fryer situation.
• Perfect Anytime Treat: Whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or dessert, these donuts hit the spot.

Gather Your Ingredients for Filled Air Fryer Donuts

Alright, let’s get our goodies together! This recipe is all about simplicity, so you probably have most of this already. For these amazing little donuts, you’ll need one can of those handy refrigerated crescent rolls (the 8-ounce size is perfect). Then, we’ve got a little magic mix: about 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and roughly a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for that classic flavor. Don’t forget about 2 tablespoons of melted butter – it makes everything better, right? And of course, the star of the show: your favorite filling! Whether it’s a luscious jam, a smooth pastry cream, or decadent chocolate ganache, have about a quarter cup ready to go. A little powdered sugar for dusting at the end is totally optional but highly recommended for that pretty finish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Filled Air Fryer Donuts

Alright, makers of deliciousness, let’s get these donuts into our air fryers! It really is as simple as it sounds, but a few little tips make them extra perfect. Remember, we’re building on those fantastic crescent rolls, so the foundation is already flaky and ready to go! These easy stuffed crescent roll recipes are a lifesaver when you want a quick treat!

Preparing Your Air Fryer and Dough for Filled Air Fryer Donuts

First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheated to 350°F (175°C). A nice hot start makes all the difference! While it’s warming up, unroll your crescent roll dough. Gently separate those triangles. We’re going to give them a little makeover that makes them look and taste like a special treat!

Coating and Air Frying the Donuts

Now for that cozy cinnamon-sugar hug! In a little bowl, mix your granulated sugar and cinnamon until they’re buddies. Lightly brush each crescent roll triangle with your melted butter – just a thin layer is perfect. Then, dip both sides into that yummy cinnamon-sugar mix. Carefully place them into your air fryer basket. A little tip: don’t overcrowd it! You might need to cook these in two batches so they get that lovely golden-brown crispiness all around. Pop them in for about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary a bit!

Filling Your Delicious Air Fryer Donuts

Once they’re puffed up and golden, carefully take them out and let them cool on a wire rack for just a few minutes. We want them warm, but not so hot that they melt all our beautiful filling! Once they’re slightly cooled, grab a small knife or even a skewer to gently poke a hole into the side of each donut. Then, using a piping bag or a small spoon, carefully fill them up with whatever deliciousness you chose! Dust with a little powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in!

Creative Filling Ideas for Your Air Fryer Donuts

Okay, so the base is amazing, but the filling? That’s where we really get to have some fun and make these donuts totally our own! I love a good raspberry jam, maybe even a homemade blackberry jam if I’m feeling ambitious. It’s just that perfect balance of sweet and tart, you know?

Classic Jelly and Jam Filled Air Fryer Donuts

For a super easy win, go with your favorite store-bought jams or preserves. Strawberry, raspberry, apricot – they’re all fantastic! Just make sure it’s not *too* watery so it doesn’t run out everywhere. A little dollop is usually just right!

Creamy and Chocolate Stuffed Air Fryer Donuts

If you’re craving something richer, a smooth pastry cream or a luscious chocolate ganache is divine. You’ll want to make sure your cream is chilled so it’s nice and firm for piping. For chocolate, a simple ganache made from equal parts chocolate and heavy cream works like a charm. Yum!

Unique Filling Options for Air Fryer Donuts

Don’t stop at the usual suspects! Have you ever tried a tangy lemon curd? It’s amazing! Or maybe some salted caramel for that sweet and salty goodness? Even a simple fruit compote or some sweetened cream cheese can be a total flavor explosion in these little donuts.

Tips for Perfect Filled Air Fryer Donuts Every Time

Okay, so we’ve chatted about making these beauties, but let me share a few little secrets I’ve picked up that really make them shine. You know, those little tricks that turn a good donut into a *great* donut! It’s all about paying attention to a couple of key things.

Ensuring Golden Brown Perfection

The key with any air fryer recipe is temperature and timing! Make sure your air fryer is properly preheated so they start cooking right away. And keep an eye on them – that 5-7 minute window is a guideline, but once they’re puffed and a lovely golden brown, they’re good to go. No one wants a pale donut!

Achieving the Best Filled Air Fryer Donuts

When you’re handling the crescent roll dough, be gentle! We don’t want to tear it. And for the filling, let those donuts cool just a smidge so the filling doesn’t ooze out when you pipe it in. Using a piping bag with a small tip or even just a ziplock bag with the corner snipped makes filling so much neater and easier. Trust me on this one!

Sweetening and Decorating Your Donuts

That dusting of powdered sugar is my favorite way to finish them off. It’s simple, elegant, and adds just the right touch of sweetness without being over the top. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of extra thinned-out glaze over the top after filling looks amazing, too. It’s all about making them look as good as they taste!

Frequently Asked Questions About Filled Air Fryer Donuts

Got questions? I’ve got answers! These little beauties are super forgiving, but a few pointers can make them even more perfect. If you’re looking for more breakfast ideas, you can always check out our breakfast recipe category!

Can I use homemade donut dough for these filled air fryer donuts?

Oh, absolutely! If you have a favorite yeast or cake donut dough recipe, you can totally adapt it. Just make sure it’s shaped appropriately to still fit in your air fryer!

What is the best way to fill the air fryer donuts without making a mess?

My secret weapon? A piping bag (or a Ziploc bag with a tiny corner snipped). Gently poke the hole, insert the tip, and fill slowly. It keeps things neat and ensures that delicious filling goes right where it belongs!

How do I store leftover filled air fryer donuts?

Honestly, they’re best enjoyed fresh because the crescent roll dough can get a little chewy if stored. But if you have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container at room temp for a day, or the fridge if you’re keeping them longer.

Are there healthier alternatives for filled air fryer donuts?

You bet! Try using a whole wheat-based crescent dough if you can find it, or a pastry cream made with Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Cutting back on the sugar dusting also helps!

Estimated Nutritional Information

Just a friendly heads-up, these numbers are approximate and can change depending on the specific ingredients you use – especially your filling choice! This estimate is for ONE donut, based on the basic recipe with jam filling. One donut typically has around 180 calories, 9g of total fat (with about 3g being saturated fat), 3g of protein, and 22g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 12g of sugar and 1g of fiber in there. Plenty of sweetness without going totally overboard, right?

Share Your Filled Air Fryer Donut Creations!

I just LOVE seeing what you all whip up in your kitchens! If you make these super simple filled air fryer donuts, do me a huge favor and leave a comment below telling me how they turned out and what glorious filling you chose. Or better yet, tag me on social media with your delicious creations! You can also reach out through my contact page – I can’t wait to see them!

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