Easy Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, pillowy donut that’s perfectly golden, coated in cinnamon sugar, and ready in minutes—no oil splatters or deep-frying required! These Easy Air Fryer Donuts deliver all the nostalgic flavor and soft texture of your favorite bakery treat, but with a quick and fuss-free recipe you’ll crave every weekend.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple staples, you’re already halfway to homemade donut bliss. Each ingredient plays a starring role in building that signature fluffy bite, rich flavor, and irresistible cinnamon sugar crust.

• Jumbo Flaky Biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands): These pre-made biscuits are your shortcut to ultra-soft, airy donuts—no mixing, kneading, or waiting on dough to rise.
• Granulated Sugar: This classic pantry sugar adds crunch and sweetness to the outside of every donut.
• Ground Cinnamon: Aromatic and warmly spiced, cinnamon transforms ordinary sugar into magic for the ultimate finishing touch.
• Butter (melted): Brushing hot donuts with butter lets that cinnamon sugar stick beautifully and adds a buttery richness that melts in your mouth.
• Coconut Oil Spray: A light mist keeps donuts from sticking in the air fryer and enhances browning—olive oil spray works too!

Variations

The beauty of Easy Air Fryer Donuts is how endlessly adaptable they are. Use what you have, play with toppings, or even tweak the recipe for dietary needs—delicious donuts await, no matter your mood.

• Chocolate Glazed: Dip your warm donuts in melted chocolate or top them with chocolate frosting for a classic twist everyone loves.
• Maple or Vanilla Icing: Whisk together powdered sugar with a splash of milk and maply syrup or vanilla extract for a glossy, sticky finish.
• Filled Donuts: Pipe your favorite jam or custard into the center of the cooked donut “holes” for a surprise inside.
• Gluten-Free Biscuits: Use a can of gluten-free biscuits for a treat everyone can enjoy, just be sure to check your air fryer for recommended times.

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 360°F. Just turn it on and let it run empty for about 3 to 5 minutes—it’ll get nice and hot, ready to give your donuts that golden, bakery-style exterior.

Step 2: Mix Your Cinnamon Sugar

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Give it a good stir so every spoonful is delightfully spiced and ready to coat your donuts in cozy flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Donuts

Pop open the can of jumbo biscuits—this is always the most exciting (and startling!) part. Use a 1-inch round cookie cutter or the cap of a water bottle to cut the center out of each biscuit, creating classic donut rings and adorable holes.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Lightly coat your air fryer basket with coconut or olive oil spray (avoid non-stick sprays like Pam). Arrange the donuts in a single layer, leaving a little breathing room. Air fry at 360°F for 5 minutes or until the donuts are puffed and golden brown. The holes only need about 3 minutes—just long enough to cook through and develop a slight crisp.

Step 5: Butter & Coat

While your donuts fry, melt the butter. While they’re still hot, brush the donuts generously on all sides—this is your secret to making the cinnamon sugar stick like a dream. Gently roll, dip, and spoon the cinnamon sugar over the donuts, then shake off the excess for a perfectly even, sparkly finish.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Devour your Easy Air Fryer Donuts while they’re still warm! They’re best enjoyed fresh, with that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture and the kind of flavor that rivals anything from the donut shop.

How to Serve Easy Air Fryer Donuts

Garnishes

For even more decadence, drizzle your Easy Air Fryer Donuts with a quick glaze, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a handful of festive sprinkles. You can even dip half the donut in melted chocolate or caramel—let your creativity (and sweet tooth) be your guide!

Side Dishes

There’s nothing like a fresh donut alongside a steaming mug of coffee, chai tea, or icy cold milk. For brunch spreads, pair your donuts with fresh berries, yogurt parfaits, or savory breakfast casseroles to round out the sweet treat with something hearty or refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these donuts stacked high on a pretty cake stand, in a paper-lined basket, or threaded onto wooden skewers for a fun brunch centerpiece. For parties, offer a “decorate your own donut” bar with toppings and glazes—these Easy Air Fryer Donuts are perfect for getting everyone involved and making delicious memories.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For best results, line your container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture and preserve that dreamy pillowy texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, place cooled donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container, using parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked taste, pop donuts in the air fryer at 320°F for about 1-2 minutes or until warm. You can also microwave for 10-15 seconds, though this may soften the crust slightly, so air fryer is best if you want to revive that signature texture!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s fast, customizable, and guaranteed to please, you’re going to fall in love with these Easy Air Fryer Donuts. I hope you give them a try soon—your kitchen will smell incredible, and you’ll have a new favorite to share with family and friends!

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