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Air-Fried Espresso Cream Donuts

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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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls, cover, and let rise for 20 minutes.
  6. Mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tsp espresso powder to make the espresso sugar. Set aside.
  7. 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.
  8. Brush the warm donuts with the remaining 4 tbsp melted butter and roll them in the espresso sugar. Allow them to cool completely.
  9. To make the espresso cream, beat the heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup sugar, and 3/4 tsp espresso powder until stiff peaks form.
  10. 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.

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