Pin it The air fryer sat on my counter mocking me for months before I finally admitted I mostly just wanted to make dessert in it. These donuts happened on a Tuesday night when a craving hit hard and I refused to turn on the oven.
My roommate walked in mid batch and accused me of hiding deep frying skills. The look on her face when I showed her the biscuit tube was absolute confusion followed by immediate devotion.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret shortcut that makes everything possible. I have tested every brand and the flakier layers create better texture
- Nonstick cooking spray: Light coating prevents sticking without adding excess oil
- Granulated sugar: Creates that classic crunchy exterior we all want from a donut
- Ground cinnamon: Warm spice that transforms simple sugar into something magical
- Unsalted butter melted: The essential glue that makes cinnamon sugar actually stick to every surface
Instructions
- Heat things up:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350F and let it get properly hot for about three minutes
- Shape your donuts:
- Press a hole through the center of each biscuit using whatever round cutter you have even a shot glass works perfectly
- Prepare the basket:
- Give the air fryer basket a quick spray with nonstick spray so nothing sticks
- Air fry to perfection:
- Cook donuts in a single layer for three to four minutes flipping halfway until they are golden and puffy
- Mix the coating:
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl while donuts cook
- Coat immediately:
- Brush hot donuts with melted butter then toss them in the cinnamon sugar until completely covered
- Repeat and serve:
- Cook remaining donuts and donut holes then serve everything warm
Pin it These became my go to for unexpected guests because nobody believes how fast they come together. Something about pulling warm donuts out of the air fryer makes people think you planned ahead for hours.
Making Them Your Way
I have discovered that a vanilla glaze drizzled over these donuts makes them feel even more special. Just whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla until you get a thick but pourable consistency.
Storage Truths
These are undeniably best eaten the moment they are made but they will keep in an airtight container for one day. The texture does change slightly so a quick ten second reheat in the microwave brings them back to life.
Common Questions
The donut holes from the centers cook even faster usually about two minutes. I make them first as a test batch because nobody can resist snacking on them while the full donuts cook. This recipe doubles easily if you are feeding a crowd.
- Work quickly when coating hot donuts because the butter needs to be warm for the sugar to adhere
- Let the coated donuts set for a minute before serving so the coating firms up slightly
- Save any leftover cinnamon sugar for toast or oatmeal because it is too good to waste
Pin it Some nights just call for warm cinnamon sugar donuts in under ten minutes.
Recipe FAQs
- → What dough is best for these donuts?
Refrigerated biscuit dough works best as it provides a fluffy texture and cooks quickly in the air fryer.
- → Can I use a different coating besides cinnamon sugar?
Yes, try glazing with powdered sugar and milk or dusting with cocoa powder for variety.
- → How long should I air fry the donuts?
Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and puffed.
- → Are these donuts suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, provided the biscuit dough does not contain animal-derived ingredients; check packaging to confirm.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container for up to one day; they are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- → Can I make the donut holes from the cut outs?
Absolutely, air fry the biscuit centers alongside the donuts for a bite-sized treat.