Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes, you can shape the batter into rings on a small piece of parchment paper. They will not look perfectly uniform but they taste exactly the same. A piping bag or a zip lock bag with one corner snipped helps a lot with shaping.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can but you need to roast and puree it first and then drain off any extra moisture. Canned puree is drier and more consistent which is why most bakers default to it for recipes like this. Fresh can make the batter too wet.

Why are my donuts coming out dense?

Most likely the batter was overmixed or the baking powder was old. Baking powder loses its lift after about six months so it is worth checking the date on yours before you start. Also make sure you measured the flour correctly, too much flour compacts the texture.

Can I double the batch?

Absolutely, just cook in batches rather than cramming too many into the air fryer at once. They need a little space around them for the hot air to circulate properly. Crowding them leads to uneven cooking and soft spots on the sides.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts Easy Recipe

1

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 minutes. Lightly grease a silicone donut mold or a small metal donut pan with cooking spray.

2

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.

3

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl stir together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4

Combine the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Stop as soon as no dry flour remains and do not overmix.

5

Fill the Donut Molds

Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the greased donut mold, filling each cavity about two thirds full. Smooth the tops lightly with a damp finger.

6

Air Fry the Donuts

Place the mold in the preheated air fryer and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 9 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops look set and lightly golden.

7

Cool Slightly

Remove the mold from the air fryer and let the donuts sit for 2 minutes before turning them out onto a small wire rack or plate.

8

Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a shallow bowl. While the donuts are still warm, roll each one gently in the cinnamon sugar until coated on all sides. Serve immediately.