Easy Air Fryer Donuts: A Quick and Delicious Treat

Who doesn’t love donuts? They’re soft, sweet, and coated in irresistible cinnamon sugar. But what if you could enjoy these delightful treats without the hassle of deep-frying? That’s where easy air fryer donuts come in. This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without all the grease.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Donuts

Air fryer donuts are a game-changer. They’re just as fluffy and delicious as traditional fried donuts but with less mess and fewer calories. You don’t need fancy equipment or ingredients—just a can of flaky biscuits, some pantry staples, and your trusty air fryer. They’re ready in minutes, making them perfect for a spontaneous dessert or a fun family activity.

Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delightful treats:

Ingredient	Quantity
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon	1 tablespoon
Flaky large biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury Grands!)	1 (16.3-ounce) can
Olive oil or coconut oil spray	As needed
Unsalted butter, melted	4 tablespoons

Nutritional Information (Per Donut)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~250
Carbohydrates	26g
Sugar	15g
Fats	14g
Protein	3g

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Biscuits

1. Open the can of biscuits and separate them onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Use a 1-inch round cutter (or a bottle cap) to cut holes in the center of each biscuit. Save the cutouts to make donut holes.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive or coconut oil spray. Avoid using nonstick sprays like Pam, which can damage the basket’s coating.

Step 4: Cook the Donuts

1. Place 3–4 donuts in a single layer in the air fryer, ensuring they don’t touch.
2. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
3. Transfer the cooked donuts to the baking sheet and repeat with the remaining dough.

Step 5: Cook the Donut Holes

• Place the donut holes in the air fryer. These cook faster, taking about 3 minutes total. Flip them halfway through.

Step 6: Add the Toppings

1. While the donuts are still warm, brush both sides with melted butter.
2. Dip each donut into the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the donuts warm for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy them as they are, or pair them with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
   Cook the donuts in batches to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
2. Use a Light Touch with Spray Oil
   A light coating prevents sticking without making the donuts greasy.
3. Flip Halfway Through
   Flipping ensures both sides are evenly golden brown.
4. Adjust the Cinnamon Sugar to Taste
   Add more or less cinnamon depending on your preference.
5. Serve Immediately
   These donuts are best enjoyed warm for the perfect soft texture.

Creative Variations

1. Chocolate Glaze
   Dip the donuts in melted chocolate instead of cinnamon sugar. Add sprinkles for a fun twist.
2. Powdered Sugar Coating
   Dust the donuts with powdered sugar for a classic look and taste.
3. Fruit Filling
   Inject the donuts with raspberry or strawberry jam using a piping bag.
4. Vanilla Icing
   Whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract to drizzle over the donuts.
5. Pumpkin Spice Donuts
   Swap the cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Treat: Serve with fresh fruit and a hot cup of coffee.
• Afternoon Snack: Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing break.
• Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Nonstick Spray
   Nonstick sprays like Pam can damage the air fryer basket. Stick to olive or coconut oil spray.
2. Overcooking
   Air fryer times can vary. Check the donuts frequently to avoid drying them out.
3. Skipping the Butter Brush
   The melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds a rich flavor.
4. Crowding the Basket
   Overcrowding prevents even cooking, so always cook in batches.
5. Not Flipping
   Failing to flip halfway through can result in uneven browning.

FAQs About Easy Air Fryer Donuts

1. Can I use a different type of biscuit dough?

Yes! While flaky biscuits work best, you can experiment with other types of biscuit dough, but the texture may vary.

2. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free biscuit dough if available. Adjust cooking times as needed.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes.

4. Can I freeze air fryer donuts?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.

5. Do I need to preheat my air fryer?

While not always necessary, preheating can help the donuts cook evenly and achieve a better texture.

6. Can I make savory air fryer donuts?

Absolutely! Skip the cinnamon sugar and brush the donuts with garlic butter or sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

A Final Word on Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Easy air fryer donuts are a quick and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their soft, fluffy texture and golden cinnamon sugar coating, they’re a treat the whole family will love. Best of all, they’re ready in minutes and require minimal cleanup.

Ready to Make Your Own Air Fryer Donuts?

Grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and treat yourself to these warm, homemade delights. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!

Print