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Peanut Butter and Jelly Air-Fried Doughnuts: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Treat

When it comes to indulgent snacks, doughnuts have long held a special place in our hearts. Those fluffy, doughy rings have a way of lifting our spirits and satisfying our cravings for sweetness. But what if we told you that you could enjoy a delightful twist on this classic treat? Enter Peanut Butter and Jelly Air-Fried Doughnuts—an enticing combination that fuses the nostalgic flavours of childhood with a healthier cooking method.

A Modern Take on a Classic

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a staple of British childhood, evoking memories of packed lunches and carefree afternoons. The rich, nutty flavour of peanut butter beautifully contrasts with the sweet, fruity notes of jelly. Now, imagine capturing that same delightful combination in a doughnut! This air-fried version means you can enjoy your treat with significantly less oil, making it a somewhat guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious doughnuts, you’ll need:

For the Doughnuts:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 100g granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 120ml milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 large egg
• 60ml melted butter (or oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 100g smooth peanut butter
• 100g berry jelly or jam (strawberry or raspberry works wonderfully)

For Topping:

• Icing sugar, for dusting
• Optional: chopped nuts for added texture

The Method

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Once well mixed, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable.

2. Shape the Doughnuts:
   Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out. With floured hands, knead gently a couple of times until it comes together. Roll out to about 1.5cm thickness, then use a round cutter to cut out your doughnuts. Use a smaller cutter to create holes in the centre if you wish. Re-roll the scraps to make more doughnuts.

3. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
   Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or a brush of oil to prevent the doughnuts from sticking.

4. Air Fry the Doughnuts:
   Place the doughnuts in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them carefully and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

5. Fill the Doughnuts:
   Once the doughnuts have cooled, make a small incision on the side of each doughnut. Use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill each doughnut with peanut butter and jelly. Don’t be shy; a generous dollop makes all the difference!

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Dust the filled doughnuts with icing sugar for a finishing touch. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch them disappear as friends and family savouring the delightful combination of textures and flavours.

Why Air-Fry?

Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. By using hot air to cook the doughnuts, you’ll achieve a crispy exterior without the excess oil, significantly reducing the calorie count. This technique also means less mess and fuss in the kitchen, making it easier to whip up a batch whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter and Jelly Air-Fried Doughnuts are a delightful fusion of nostalgic flavours and modern cooking methods. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a gathering, these doughnuts are sure to impress. Simple to make and utterly irresistible, they represent a sweet homage to childhood treats while embracing healthier eating habits. So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in this scrumptious snack—you won’t regret it!