Muffins That Taste Like Doughnuts (Air Fryer Recipe)
Introduction:
If you’ve ever wished your muffins could taste like classic cinnamon-sugar doughnuts—warm, fluffy inside with a buttery-sweet coating—this recipe is your dream come true. These muffins are a delightful fusion of two favorites: the soft, cake-like interior of an old-fashioned doughnut and the simplicity of a muffin.
Even better? We’re skipping the oven and frying oil altogether by making them in the air fryer. The result is slightly crisp edges, tender centers, and that nostalgic doughnut flavor, all without turning on the oven. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or a cozy weekend bake, these muffins will steal the show. Bonus: your kitchen will smell amazing.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (essential for doughnut flavor!)
1/2 cup milk (any kind)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Equipment:
Air fryer
Silicone muffin liners or small ramekins
Mixing bowls
Pastry brush (for coating)
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly grease silicone muffin liners or ramekins with nonstick spray or butter.
Make the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 1–2 minutes).
Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with the milk. Stir gently just until combined—don’t overmix.
Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Don’t worry if they look small—they puff up nicely!
Air Fry the Muffins
Place the muffin cups into the air fryer basket, leaving room around them for air to circulate.
Air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 10 to 13 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove and let cool for 5 minutes in the liners.
Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In one bowl, melt the butter.
In another, mix the sugar and cinnamon together.
Remove the muffins from the liners. While still warm, brush each muffin with melted butter, then roll or sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
Serving Suggestions:
Best served warm—like fresh doughnuts!
Pair with coffee, hot cocoa, or a cozy chai.
Leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2–3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to revive that fresh taste.
Pro Tips:
Don’t skip the nutmeg—it’s the key to that nostalgic doughnut-shop flavor.
Want to fill them? Try adding a bit of jam or Nutella in the center before cooking!
Make mini muffins for bite-sized treats—just reduce cook time to 8–9 minutes.