Nonna’s Air Fryer Zeppole Donuts (Print View)

Fluffy Italian zeppole with crisp, golden exteriors, made healthier in the air fryer and dusted with powdered sugar.

# Components:

→ Dough Preparation

01 - 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk, approximately 110°F (43°C)
02 - 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (equivalent to 1 packet)
03 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
05 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
06 - ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
07 - 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for dusting as needed

→ Finishing and Serving

08 - Olive oil spray, for air frying
09 - ½ cup powdered sugar, for dusting

# Preparation Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Allow to stand for 5 minutes, or until foamy, indicating yeast activation.
02 - Add the remaining granulated sugar, the room-temperature eggs, cooled melted butter, and fine sea salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
03 - Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or using a dough hook attachment on a mixer for 5 to 7 minutes, until it achieves a smooth and elastic consistency.
04 - Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl and place it in a warm environment to rise for 60 to 90 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in volume.
05 - Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 16 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball or a 3-inch (7.5 cm) rope, then form into a ring shape, pinching the ends securely together.
06 - Arrange the shaped zeppole on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover them loosely and allow them to rise for an additional 20 minutes while you preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
07 - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Carefully place the zeppole into the basket in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the basket. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking process, until they are golden brown and puffed.
08 - Remove the zeppole from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. Generously dust with powdered sugar before serving warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick preparation with just 20 minutes of active time
  • Healthier than traditional deep fried zeppole
  • Perfect balance of light interior and crispy exterior
  • Versatile for breakfast or dessert
  • Simple ingredients you likely have on hand
02 -
  • Zeppole cook much faster in an air fryer than traditional deep frying
  • The dough can be made up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated
  • These contain significantly less fat than traditional zeppole
  • Perfect project to make with children who love to shape the dough
03 -
  • For the lightest, fluffiest texture, avoid overworking the dough during kneading. Stop as soon as it becomes smooth and elastic. Working the dough too much develops excess gluten, resulting in tough zeppole.
  • When shaping the dough, use a gentle touch to preserve the air bubbles that have formed during rising.

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