Air Fryer Bugnes – Easy and Quick

Hi There! Let’s Make Delicious Air Fryer Bugnes Together

If you’ve never tried bugnes before, you’re in for such a treat! These are light, crispy French pastries, kind of like a fancy, twisted doughnut, but much easier to make at home using your air fryer. I love this recipe because it’s quick, doesn’t need deep frying, and tastes incredible with just a dusting of powdered sugar. Plus, the air fryer means less mess and a lighter version of this classic snack.

Why I Love Bugnes and You Might Too

Bugnes are perfect if you want a little sweet snack that’s not too heavy. They have this crispy outside and a soft, tender inside. Making them in the air fryer instead of frying means they soak up less oil, making them a bit healthier and so much easier to clean up after. Also, the recipe uses simple pantry staples, so you can whip these up anytime you get a craving.

Healthier Twist on Classic Bugnes

While bugnes are a treat, making them in the air fryer cuts down on the deep frying oil, reducing excessive fat and calories. Using a bit of milk or cream adds some protein and richness without being too heavy. And you can always use all-purpose flour or try swapping for whole wheat flour to boost fiber if you want to experiment with making these slightly healthier. The twist shape also means less dough density, keeping the pastry light.

Fun Variations You Can Try

• Flavor Boost: Try a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg mixed into the flour for a warm, spicy touch.
• Floral Notes: If you have orange blossom water, it lends a lovely, subtle fragrance that transports you right to a French market!
• Dairy-Free Version: Use a plant-based milk substitute like almond or oat milk with a little extra vanilla.
• Sweet Fillings: After frying, fill with a bit of jam or Nutella for a gooey surprise.

Air Fryer Bugnes Recipe – Step by Step

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk or cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
• Cooking spray or neutral oil for the air fryer basket
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix them well so everything’s evenly spread.
2. Add your cold butter pieces to the dry mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub or cut the butter into the flour until you get a crumbly, coarse texture—kind of like little breadcrumbs.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk (or cream), and your choice of vanilla extract or orange blossom water.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients little by little, stirring gently until you get a soft dough. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour over the surface while mixing.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it’s smooth and well combined. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-20 minutes if you have time—that makes rolling easier.
6. Roll the dough out thinly, about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick.
7. Cut the dough into diamond shapes around 2-3 inches wide. Cut a small slit in the middle of each diamond. Then gently pull one tip of the diamond through the slit, creating the classic “twisted” bugne shape.
8. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush with some neutral oil so the bugnes don’t stick.
9. Lay a single layer of bugnes in the basket without overlapping. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
10. Air fry for 5-7 minutes until puffed and golden brown. If your air fryer requires, gently flip them halfway through to get even cooking.
11. Remove the bugnes and place them on a cooling rack. Repeat with the rest of the dough.
12. Once cool enough to handle, dust the bugnes generously with powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Helpful Tips for Perfect Bugnes

• Handling Dough: Don’t overwork the dough once it’s made. Gentle kneading keeps the bugnes light and tender.
• Rolling Thin: Rolling the dough thinly is key to crispy bugnes – aim for about 1/8 inch thickness.
• Air Fryer Tips: Avoid overcrowding the basket so they cook evenly and get crispy all around.
• Cooling: Transfer to a wire rack to cool so the bottoms stay crisp and don’t get soggy.
• Storage: These snacks are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer to bring back crispness.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Air fryer (preheated to 350°F / 175°C)
• Large mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or your fingers for rubbing in butter
• Rolling pin
• Knife for cutting diamonds and slits
• Wire cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray or a brush for the air fryer basket

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake bugnes in the oven instead of the air fryer? Absolutely! Bake them on a parchment-lined tray at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until golden, flipping halfway for even color.
2. What if I don’t have orange blossom water? No worries! Vanilla extract works great and adds a lovely flavor to the dough.
3. How do I store leftover bugnes? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer a minute or two to refresh the crispiness.
4. Can I freeze the dough for later? Yes! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and shaping.
5. Is it okay to use milk instead of cream? Totally! Milk works perfectly and keeps the dough soft.

Ready to Try It?

I hope you enjoyed discovering how to make these delightful air fryer bugnes! They’re such a fun, simple treat that feels special yet isn’t complicated at all. If you decide to give this recipe a try, I’d love to see your beautiful bugnes. Pin this recipe on Pinterest and share your photos or tips. Let’s swap ideas and make our kitchens a little sweeter every day!