Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes for a Sweet Treat!

Introduction to Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes! These delightful little treats are not only easy to make, but they also bring a touch of joy to any day. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut hole filled with creamy custard and topped with rich chocolate glaze. It’s the perfect way to impress your loved ones or simply indulge yourself after a long day. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes for a Sweet Treat!

Print Recipe

Delicious and easy-to-make Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes filled with creamy custard and topped with chocolate glaze.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 donut holes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup vanilla custard
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Form the dough into small balls and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
6. Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let the donut holes cool slightly before filling them with custard using a piping bag.
8. Melt chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl and stir until smooth.
9. Dip the filled donut holes into the chocolate glaze and let them set.

Notes

• Ensure the custard is chilled before filling the donut holes.
• For a richer flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes

These Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes are a game-changer for busy days! They come together in just 25 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying treat. The air fryer gives them that perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping them light and fluffy inside. Plus, who can resist the combination of creamy custard and chocolate glaze? It’s a delightful way to brighten your day or surprise your family with a sweet snack!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: This is the base of your donut holes, giving them structure and fluffiness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve that lovely golden color.
• Baking powder: A leavening agent that makes your donut holes rise and become light.
• Baking soda: Works with the baking powder to ensure a fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the donut holes tender.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Unsalted butter: Provides flavor and moisture; melted for easy mixing.
• Vanilla custard: The star filling that brings creamy goodness to each bite.
• Chocolate chips: Used for the luscious glaze that tops your donut holes.
• Vegetable oil: Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly for the glaze.

For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for an extra flavor boost. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial because it ensures that your donut holes rise beautifully and have a light texture. The aroma of the flour and sugar mingling together is just delightful, setting the stage for your sweet creation!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, and melted unsalted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it might cook the egg! This mixture adds moisture and richness to your donut holes. As you whisk, you’ll notice the creamy texture forming, which is a sign that you’re on the right track. It’s like a warm hug for your dough!

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This is where the magic happens, as the dough starts to come together. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you see your donut hole batter forming!

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior. While it heats up, you can take a moment to enjoy the anticipation of those delicious donut holes coming to life. It’s like waiting for a surprise party to begin!

Step 5: Form the Donut Holes

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to form the donut holes! Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. This allows them to cook evenly and puff up nicely. The sight of those little dough balls is sure to bring a smile to your face!

Step 6: Air Fry the Donut Holes

Air fry the donut holes for 8-10 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, making it hard to wait for them to cool!

Step 7: Fill with Custard

After letting the donut holes cool slightly, it’s time to fill them with that luscious vanilla custard. Use a piping bag for this step, as it makes the process much easier. As you fill each donut hole, you’ll feel like a pastry chef, creating little bites of happiness. Just imagine the creamy goodness waiting inside!

Step 8: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil. Stir until smooth and glossy. This glaze is what takes your donut holes to the next level! The rich chocolate aroma will have you dreaming of dessert. It’s the perfect finishing touch to your sweet treats!

Step 9: Dip and Set

Finally, dip each filled donut hole into the chocolate glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on a cooling rack to set. Watching the glaze harden is like witnessing a beautiful transformation. Soon, you’ll have a batch of Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes that are ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your buttermilk is at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
• Use a piping bag for easy custard filling.
• Let the donut holes cool slightly before filling to avoid melting the custard.
• Experiment with different chocolate types for the glaze, like dark or white chocolate.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: Use any size you have on hand; just make sure they’re large enough for mixing.
• Whisk: A fork can work in a pinch if you don’t have one.
• Piping bag: A zip-top bag with a corner cut off can substitute nicely.
• Air fryer: If you don’t have one, an oven can work, but cooking times will vary.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Any heat-safe bowl will do for melting chocolate.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
• Flavor Infusions: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or orange zest to the batter for a unique twist.
• Healthier Glaze: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor and less sugar, or try a yogurt-based glaze for a lighter option.
• Fruit Filling: Swap the vanilla custard for fruit preserves or a berry compote for a fruity surprise inside.
• Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter and milk for a vegan-friendly treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Serve them on a colorful platter, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• For a fun twist, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!

FAQs about Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes

Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and form the donut holes in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. This makes it super convenient for busy mornings or unexpected guests!

What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Just mix one cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect buttermilk replacement!

How do I store leftover donut holes?
Store any leftover Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!

Can I freeze these donut holes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes!

What other fillings can I use?
While vanilla custard is a classic, feel free to get creative! You can use chocolate pudding, fruit preserves, or even a peanut butter filling for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

Making Air Fryer Boston Cream Donut Holes is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your kitchen. The process of mixing, frying, and filling these little treats is a wonderful way to unwind after a busy day. Each bite is a burst of creamy custard and rich chocolate, making it hard to resist going back for more. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, these donut holes are sure to create sweet memories. So, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to this delicious adventure—you deserve it!