Air Fryer Donuts – Easy, Fluffy, and Ready in 10 Minutes

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut coated in a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar—all made in just ten minutes with zero deep frying. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, these easy air fryer donuts make that dream a reality.

There’s something undeniably comforting about donuts. Whether you grew up enjoying them fresh from a bakery, dunking them into a cup of hot coffee, or making them at home with your family, donuts have a way of bringing joy. But let’s be honest—traditional donuts can be a hassle to make. They require time, yeast, and a whole lot of oil for deep frying. That’s where this air fryer version comes in.

These air fryer donuts are light, golden, and deliciously crispy on the outside while staying soft and pillowy on the inside. The best part? You don’t need to deal with a big pot of hot oil. Instead, the air fryer does all the work, giving you bakery-quality results with just a fraction of the effort.

Using store-bought biscuit dough makes this recipe even easier. There’s no need to worry about mixing, kneading, or waiting for dough to rise. Simply cut out the donut shapes, air fry, and coat them in cinnamon sugar for a classic treat. Or, if you’re feeling creative, drizzle them with melted chocolate, glaze them with vanilla icing, or even stuff them with Nutella for an indulgent twist.

Whether you’re making these for a weekend breakfast, a quick dessert, or just a fun snack, these air fryer donuts will become a go-to recipe in your home. They’re so easy that even kids can help out, making it a perfect family-friendly activity.

So if you’ve ever wanted to whip up a batch of donuts without the mess and grease of deep frying, this is your moment. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These air fryer donuts are quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious. Here’s why they’ll become your new favorite treat:

1. No Deep Frying = Less Mess and Less Guilt

Deep frying can be messy, smelly, and time-consuming. With this recipe, there’s no need for a giant pot of oil or dealing with greasy splatters. The air fryer crisps up the donuts beautifully, giving them a perfect texture without the added fat from deep frying.

2. Ready in Just 10 Minutes

Craving donuts but don’t want to wait hours? These air fryer donuts come together in just 10 minutes from start to finish. That means you can satisfy your sweet tooth instantly.

3. Super Simple Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients—store-bought biscuit dough, butter, cinnamon, and sugar—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. No fancy baking skills required!

4. Customizable and Fun

These donuts are a blank canvas for creativity. Coat them in cinnamon sugar for a classic flavor, drizzle them with chocolate or caramel, or dip them in a homemade glaze. You can even fill them with jelly, cream, or Nutella for a bakery-style treat!

5. Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved

Since this recipe is so simple, it’s a great activity to do with kids. They’ll love cutting out the donut shapes, coating them in cinnamon sugar, and of course—eating them!

Health Benefits

While donuts are definitely an indulgent treat, this air fryer version is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried donuts. Here’s why:

1. Lower in Fat and Calories

Traditional donuts are deep-fried in oil, which means they absorb a lot of fat. Air-fried donuts use significantly less oil—just a light brushing of butter—resulting in a lower calorie and fat content without sacrificing flavor.

2. No Artificial Additives

When you make these at home, you control what goes into them. Unlike store-bought donuts, which often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sugar, these air fryer donuts are made with simple, real ingredients.

3. Less Sugar Than Store-Bought Donuts

Many commercial donuts are overloaded with sugar, both in the dough and in the toppings. By making them at home, you can control the amount of sugar and use healthier alternatives like coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener if desired.

4. Lighter and Easier to Digest

Because these donuts are not deep-fried in heavy oil, they’re easier on the stomach. They still have that amazing crispy texture but without the greasy aftertaste that can sometimes come with traditional fried foods.

5. Can Be Made with Whole Wheat or Alternative Flours

If you want to make a slightly healthier version, you can use whole wheat biscuit dough or gluten-free alternatives. This makes them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s take a look at the time breakdown, servings, and nutritional details for this recipe.

Total Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-6 minutes
• Total Time: About 10 minutes

Servings

• Makes 8 donuts + donut holes

Nutritional Information (Per Donut)

• Calories: ~180-220 (varies based on toppings)
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

Ingredients List

For the Donuts:

• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Toppings:

• Melted chocolate
• Caramel drizzle
• Powdered sugar glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons milk)
• Sprinkles

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps the donuts cook evenly and ensures they get that golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Lay them out on a flat surface.

Step 3: Cut Out the Donut Shapes

Use a small cookie cutter (or the lid of a bottle) to cut a hole in the center of each biscuit. Set aside the donut holes—you can air fry these too!

Step 4: Arrange Donuts in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t touching, as they need space to expand while cooking. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook in batches.

Step 5: Air Fry the Donuts

Set the timer for 5-6 minutes and air fry until the donuts turn golden brown. Halfway through, flip them over using tongs to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated. This gives them that classic donut-shop taste!

Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)

For extra flavor, drizzle the donuts with melted chocolate, caramel, or homemade glaze. If you want a filled donut, let them cool slightly, then use a piping bag to add jam or Nutella inside.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Your air fryer donuts are ready! Serve them fresh with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk for the ultimate treat.

How to Serve

These air fryer donuts are absolutely delightful on their own, but if you want to take them to the next level, there are plenty of fun and delicious ways to serve them.

1. Classic Style

The simplest and most traditional way to enjoy these donuts is by rolling them in cinnamon sugar right after air frying. The warm donuts absorb the buttery cinnamon-sugar coating beautifully, creating a perfect balance of crispness and sweetness.

2. Dipped in Chocolate or Caramel

If you’re a chocolate lover, melt some semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate and dip the tops of the donuts for a glossy finish. Let them sit for a few minutes so the chocolate firms up slightly. You can also drizzle them with warm caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

3. Glazed for a Bakery-Style Finish

For a classic glazed donut effect, whisk together:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, let the excess drip off, and allow them to set for a few minutes. The result is a shiny, sweet coating that tastes just like your favorite bakery donuts!

4. Topped with Fun Additions

Make these donuts even more exciting by adding:

• Sprinkles: Great for kids (or kids at heart).
• Crushed nuts: Try chopped almonds, peanuts, or pecans for a crunchy contrast.
• Coconut flakes: Adds a tropical twist.
• Powdered sugar: A simple but elegant touch.

5. Stuffed with Delicious Fillings

If you prefer filled donuts, let them cool slightly, then use a piping bag to fill them with:

• Nutella or melted chocolate for a rich and creamy filling.
• Fruit jam like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot for a sweet burst of flavor.
• Vanilla or chocolate pastry cream for a homemade twist on a Boston cream donut.

6. Served with a Side

These donuts are delicious with:

• A hot cup of coffee – the bitterness balances the sweetness perfectly.
• A glass of cold milk – a classic combo for kids and adults alike.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream – warm donuts and cold ice cream create an irresistible dessert.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these air fryer donuts are guaranteed to be a hit!

Pairing Suggestions

To make your donut experience even better, pair them with the perfect drink or side. Here are some fantastic pairing ideas to complement their sweet, fluffy texture.

1. Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich bitterness of a fresh-brewed coffee cuts through the sweetness of the donuts, making it the ultimate pairing. Try espresso for a bold flavor, or a cappuccino for a creamy touch.
• Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai, like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, enhance the flavors of the cinnamon sugar coating on the donuts.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich and velvety hot chocolate pairs beautifully with a warm donut, especially if you’ve added chocolate drizzle on top.
• Matcha Latte: The slightly bitter and earthy taste of matcha balances the sweetness of the donuts, creating a delicious contrast.

2. Cold Beverages

• Milk: A classic choice—whether it’s dairy, almond, or oat milk, the creamy texture pairs beautifully with soft, fluffy donuts.
• Iced Coffee: A chilled coffee with a splash of cream and a little sweetness enhances the donut flavors without overpowering them.
• Smoothies: A fruity smoothie, like a banana or strawberry blend, can add a refreshing element to the richness of the donuts.
• Vanilla Milkshake: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a thick vanilla milkshake with a warm donut is a match made in heaven.

3. Savory Pairings

If you’re serving these as part of a bigger meal or brunch spread, consider balancing the sweetness with some savory elements.

• Scrambled eggs and turkey bacon: The soft, buttery eggs and crispy turkey bacon create a satisfying contrast with the sweet donuts.
• Cheese platter: A mix of mild and sharp cheeses, like cheddar, gouda, or brie, can be a surprisingly delicious pairing with the sweetness of the donuts.
• Avocado toast: The creamy, slightly salty nature of avocado toast pairs well with the light sweetness of the donuts for a balanced brunch plate.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Air Fryer Donuts

These donuts taste best fresh out of the air fryer, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If storing in the refrigerator, keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. However, refrigeration can change the texture, making them slightly firmer.

How to Freeze Air Fryer Donuts

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option.

• Allow the donuts to cool completely.
• Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1 hour until solid.
• Transfer the frozen donuts into a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Donuts

To enjoy your stored or frozen donuts, you can reheat them easily:

• In the Air Fryer: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes until warm and crispy again.
• In the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
• In the Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds, but note that this may make them softer rather than crispy.

For the best taste and texture, avoid reheating them too many times, as they may dry out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is super simple, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Overcrowding the Air Fryer

If you place too many donuts in the basket at once, they won’t cook evenly. Leave some space between them so the air can circulate properly.

2. Skipping the Preheating Step

Preheating ensures that the donuts cook evenly and get that beautiful golden brown color. Don’t skip this step!

3. Not Flipping the Donuts Halfway Through

For an even golden-brown finish on both sides, flip the donuts halfway through the cooking time.

4. Using Too Much Butter for Coating

A light brushing of butter is all you need to help the cinnamon sugar stick. Too much can make the donuts soggy.

5. Letting the Donuts Sit Too Long Before Coating

The cinnamon sugar coating sticks best when the donuts are still warm. If they cool down too much, the sugar won’t adhere as well.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts

• Use the right dough: Refrigerated biscuit dough works best for this recipe. Avoid using flaky dough, as it may not hold its shape well.
• Experiment with different coatings: Try cocoa powder, crushed graham crackers, or even a light dusting of espresso powder for a fun twist.
• Make a bigger batch: These donuts disappear fast! If serving for a crowd, double the recipe and cook in batches.
• Let kids help: This is a fun, easy recipe for kids to help with. Let them cut out the donuts or roll them in cinnamon sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these donuts with homemade dough?
Yes! If you prefer homemade dough, you can use a simple yeast dough recipe. Just make sure to let it rise before cutting out the donut shapes.

2. What if I don’t have a cookie cutter for the donut holes?
Use a small bottle cap, shot glass, or even the tip of a piping nozzle to cut out the center holes.

3. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free biscuit dough or homemade gluten-free dough.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There you have it—quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious air fryer donuts! These little treats bring all the joy of classic donuts without the hassle of deep frying. They’re golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and coated in that perfect cinnamon-sugar goodness.

The best part? You can whip up a batch in just 10 minutes with minimal ingredients and almost no mess. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend breakfast, a fun family snack, or a last-minute dessert, these donuts will always be a hit.

If you love experimenting with flavors, try different coatings, fillings, and toppings. From chocolate-dipped and powdered sugar-coated to Nutella-filled and caramel-drizzled, the possibilities are endless. Plus, since they’re air-fried, they’re a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional donuts—so you can enjoy them guilt-free!

Try It and Share Your Experience!

Now it’s your turn! I’d love to hear how your air fryer donuts turn out. If you make this recipe, don’t forget to:
Leave a comment below sharing your thoughts! Did you try any fun toppings?
Snap a picture and tag me on Instagram or Facebook—I love seeing your delicious creations!
Share this recipe with friends and family who would love an easy donut hack!

Making homemade donuts has never been easier or more fun. So grab your air fryer, some biscuit dough, and get ready for a batch of warm, fluffy, bakery-style donuts in minutes. Happy cooking!

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