Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts – Soft & Spiced in 10 Minutes

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.

Vertical image of air fryer gingerbread donuts stacked showing soft texture and glaze detail
Vertical image of air fryer gingerbread donuts stacked showing soft texture and glaze detail

Air Fryer Gingerbread Donuts – Soft & Spiced in 10 Minutes

male portrait photography blue eyes stubble Liam Brooks
Soft, warmly spiced gingerbread donuts with a tender crumb, made quickly in the air fryer for a cozy dessert or breakfast treat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 220 kcal

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
Keyword air fryer, donuts, easy, gingerbread, quick dessert, soft, spiced
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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.

Author

  • male portrait photography of a blue-eyed man with light stubble in warm golden hour city lighting and soft urban background

    Liam Brooks is a passionate food blogger and culinary explorer who loves discovering great flavors from around the world. Based in the United States, he spends his time visiting local restaurants, experimenting with new recipes, and sharing honest food reviews with his audience. Liam believes that food is one of the best ways to connect with different cultures and people. Through his content, he highlights hidden gems, street food spots, and creative dishes that deserve attention. When he's not writing or photographing meals, Liam enjoys traveling, learning new cooking techniques, and searching for the next unforgettable bite.

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