When I first tried making sweet potato donuts in my air fryer, I didn’t expect them to turn out as soft and fluffy as they did. There’s something magical about combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the golden, slightly crisp exterior that an air fryer provides. Every bite melts in your mouth, offering that perfect balance of comfort and indulgence without the need for deep frying.
I love experimenting with healthier versions of my favorite treats, and these donuts quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. They are not only lighter than traditional fried donuts but also infused with the rich, earthy flavor of sweet potatoes. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel cozy and inviting, and they are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert treat for guests.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the heart of the recipe. Roasted or boiled until tender, they provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a beautiful orange hue to the donuts. They also make the texture soft and tender without needing too much oil.
All-Purpose Flour: This flour is the base that gives structure to the donuts. It balances the moisture from the sweet potatoes and allows the donuts to rise slightly while maintaining a tender bite.
Baking Powder: Essential for making these donuts light and airy. It helps the batter puff up in the air fryer, giving you that perfect donut texture.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. A pinch enhances the overall taste without overpowering the donuts.
Nutmeg: A subtle spice that adds depth and complexity. Nutmeg pairs beautifully with cinnamon and sweet potatoes, giving each bite a hint of autumn-inspired warmth.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the donuts and balances the sweetness from the sweet potatoes. Just a pinch is enough to make a noticeable difference.
Brown Sugar: Provides additional sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices and sweet potato.
Egg: Acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together while also contributing to the soft, fluffy texture of the donuts.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor. When melted and mixed into the batter, it keeps the donuts moist and tender.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors, giving the donuts a sweet, aromatic finish.
Cinnamon Sugar (for coating): A mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon that’s sprinkled on top of the donuts after air frying. It creates a sweet, slightly crunchy coating that enhances the flavor and presentation.
Ingredients List
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Donuts
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and boiling or roasting the sweet potatoes until soft. Mash them until smooth and set aside to cool slightly. This will form the moist base of your donut batter.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender. The dough will be slightly sticky but manageable.
Shape the Donuts
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out the donut shapes.
Air Fry the Donuts
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the donuts in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts are still warm, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Toss each donut in the mixture until evenly coated. Serve warm or allow to cool slightly.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use freshly cooked sweet potatoes rather than canned for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the donuts are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to allow even cooking.
- For a lighter coating, brush the donuts lightly with melted butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar.
- These donuts are best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- If you prefer, try adding a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a sweeter finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before mashing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I bake these donuts instead of air frying?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Are these donuts vegan?
Not as written, but you can substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based butter to make them vegan-friendly.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.