Air Fryer Zeppole Fried Dough Balls

Air Fryer Zeppole Fried Dough Balls are a delightful treat made from pizza dough and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Coated in a sweet powdered sugar glaze, these dough balls are a delicious and easy dessert that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth!

Why Make This Recipe

These zeppole dough balls are perfect if you’re craving a quick and tasty dessert without the hassle of deep frying. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, all while using less oil. It’s a fun and simple way to make a sweet treat!

How to Make Air Fryer Zeppole Fried Dough Balls

Ingredients

1 pound pizza dough, prepared
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions

Shape the Dough Balls: Take the pizza dough and shape it into balls about the size of a red potato. Place them onto a greased air fryer basket or pan.
Cook the Dough Balls: Set your air fryer to 340°F (170°C) and cook the dough balls for 3 minutes. After 3 minutes, shake the basket or pan to ensure even cooking. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, then check to make sure they are cooked all the way through.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with milk until smooth.
Glaze the Zeppoles: Dip the cooked dough balls into the sugar glaze. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate your zeppole dough balls and enjoy them warm!

How to Serve Air Fryer Zeppole Fried Dough Balls

Serve these zeppole dough balls warm as a dessert or a sweet treat. They are great on their own or with a side of fresh fruit or ice cream.

How to Store Air Fryer Zeppole Fried Dough Balls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Zeppole Fried Dough Balls

Grease the Basket: Make sure the air fryer basket or pan is greased well to prevent sticking.
Even Cooking: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure the dough balls cook evenly.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Variation

Add Spices: For a different flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the powdered sugar.
Stuffed Zeppoles: Try stuffing the dough balls with a small piece of chocolate or fruit before cooking for a surprise filling!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen pizza dough?
Yes, you can use frozen pizza dough. Just let it thaw completely before shaping and cooking.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
These zeppole dough balls are best enjoyed fresh, but you can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer before serving.

3. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.