Light and fluffy air-fried donuts coated in espresso sugar and filled with a rich espresso whipped cream. These bakery-style treats deliver a perfect balance of sweetness and coffee flavor.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time:8 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 28 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Air Fry
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup milk, heated to 110 degrees F
1/4 cup + 1 tsp white sugar, divided
2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 large egg, beaten
8 tbsp melted butter, divided
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup white sugar (for coating donuts)
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup white sugar (for espresso cream)
3/4 tsp espresso powder
1/2 cup white sugar (for espresso sugar)
1 tsp espresso powder (for espresso sugar)
Instructions
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Whisk and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, salt, beaten egg, 4 tbsp melted butter, and flour. Knead with a dough hook on low speed for 2 minutes.
Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 5 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic. Add a little extra flour if needed.
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls, cover, and let rise for 20 minutes.
Mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tsp espresso powder to make the espresso sugar. Set aside.
Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray the donuts with oil and air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Brush the warm donuts with the remaining 4 tbsp melted butter and roll them in the espresso sugar. Allow them to cool completely.
To make the espresso cream, beat the heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup sugar, and 3/4 tsp espresso powder until stiff peaks form.
Fill the cooled donuts with the espresso cream and serve.
Notes
If the dough feels sticky during kneading, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
These donuts can also be baked in a conventional oven at 350 degrees F until golden.
Fill the donuts just before serving for the best texture.
Store filled donuts in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Extra espresso sugar can be used to dust other baked goods.