Air fryer gingerbread donuts were one of those cozy recipes I thought needed the oven, until my first batch turned out dry and unevenly cooked. I wanted that soft, spiced bite with a slightly crisp edge. After testing this three ways, I discovered that a slightly thicker batter and lower temperature made all the difference. Then I cracked the code with a quick flip and short cook time. Now they come out tender, warmly spiced, and perfectly soft every time.
Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts – Soft & Spiced in 10 Minutes
Soft, warmly spiced gingerbread donuts with a tender crumb, made quickly in the air fryer for a cozy dessert or breakfast treat.
Equipment
- Air fryer (5–6 quart recommended)
- Silicone donut mold or foil rings
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 –2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar, molasses, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients into wet ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
- Lightly grease silicone donut molds.
- Spoon or pipe batter into molds, filling about 3/4 full.
- Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Place molds in air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes until donuts are set and lightly golden.
- Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
- Let donuts cool for 3–5 minutes before removing from molds.
- Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over donuts if desired.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary, so check at 8 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Do not overfill molds to prevent uneven cooking.
- Let donuts cool slightly before removing to keep their shape.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat at 300°F (149°C) for 2–3 minutes for best texture.
- Add orange zest or swap spices for a custom flavor twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
CONCLUSION
These air fryer gingerbread donuts are one of my favorite ways to bring those warm, cozy flavors into a quick treat. That soft texture with the hint of spice makes them perfect any time you want something comforting without the extra effort.