Get ready for the easiest homemade donut experience ever with these incredible Air Fryer Donuts! This recipe uses a brilliant shortcut – refrigerated biscuit dough – to create buttery, flaky donuts in your air fryer in just minutes. I absolutely love how quick and fun these are to make, and this recipe shows you how to finish them four delicious ways: classic Cinnamon Sugar, a sweet Krispy Kreme-style Glaze, rich Chocolate Frosted with sprinkles, and simple Powdered Sugar. These Air Fryer Donuts are perfect for a weekend breakfast treat, a fun party snack, or anytime a donut craving hits!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Donuts
- Super Easy Shortcut: Uses canned refrigerated biscuit dough for effortless donut making.
- Quick Air Fryer Cooking: Donuts cook perfectly golden and flaky in just 5 minutes!
- Less Mess: No dealing with hot oil for deep frying.
- Four Delicious Variations: Choose your favorite topping or make a variety!
- Fun for Kids: A great recipe for kids to help decorate.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Donuts
Here’s what you’ll need for the basic donuts and the four topping variations. The full list with measurements is in the recipe card below.
Base Donuts
- Refrigerated biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury Grands) (Dough) Specific brand mentioned
- Cooking spray (Oil)
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Unsalted butter, melted (Fat)
- Vanilla extract (Flavoring)
- Granulated sugar (Sweetener)
- Ground cinnamon (Spice)
Krispy Kreme Glazed Topping
- Unsalted butter, melted (Fat)
- Vanilla extract, divided (Flavoring)
- Powdered sugar (Sweetener)
- Milk (Dairy)
- Light corn syrup (Sweetener/Texture)
Chocolate Frosted Topping
- Unsalted butter, divided and melted (Fat)
- Vanilla extract, divided (Flavoring)
- Powdered sugar (Sweetener)
- Cocoa powder (Flavoring/Coloring)
- Milk (Dairy)
- Salt (Seasoning)
- Sprinkles (for garnish) (Decoration)
Powdered Sugar Topping
- Unsalted butter, melted (Fat)
- Vanilla extract (Flavoring)
- Powdered sugar (Sweetener)
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Variations (Beyond the 4!)
While this recipe gives four amazing options, feel free to get creative with your Air Fryer Donuts!
- Maple Glaze: Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk. Top with bacon bits!
- Fruity Glaze: Use fruit juice (like orange or lemon) instead of milk in the Krispy Kreme style glaze.
- Jam Filled Holes: Toss the donut holes in sugar, then serve alongside warm jam for dipping.
- Nutella: Spread Nutella on the warm donuts instead of chocolate frosting.
- Different Spices: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
How to Make Air Fryer Donuts (4 Ways!)
Let me show you the basic process for making these Air Fryer Donuts and then how to finish them with each delicious topping:
Prep Dough and Air Fryer
- First, I preheat my air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C).
- I lightly grease the inside basket with cooking spray.
- I open the can of biscuits and separate them.
- Using a small (about 1.5 inch) round cookie cutter, I cut a hole in the center of each biscuit to create the donut shape. I make sure to save those center holes – they make delicious donut holes!
- I set the donut rings and donut holes aside on a clean work surface.
Air Fry the Donuts
- Working in batches so I don’t overcrowd the basket, I place about 4 donut rings (or all the donut holes) in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer.
- I air fry for 5 minutes, until they are puffed and golden brown. Air fryer models vary, so keep an eye on them the first time.
- I carefully remove the cooked donuts/donut holes from the air fryer.
Finish with Toppings (Choose Your Favorite!)
- For Cinnamon Sugar Donuts:
- While the donuts are still warm, I prepare two bowls. In one medium bowl, I mix together the ½ cup melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
- In another medium bowl, I mix together the ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon.
- I take a warm donut, submerge it completely in the melted butter/vanilla mixture.
- Then, I immediately dunk it generously into the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
- I repeat with the remaining donuts/holes for this batch. These Air Fryer Donuts are best enjoyed immediately!
- For Krispy Kreme Glazed Donuts:
- While the donuts are cooking/warm, I prepare the glaze and butter dip. In one medium bowl, I mix together ½ cup melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
- In another medium bowl, I place the 2 ½ cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup milk, ¼ cup light corn syrup, and ½ tablespoon vanilla extract. I microwave this glaze mixture for 30 seconds, then whisk until smooth.
- I take a warm donut, submerge it in the melted butter/vanilla mixture.
- Then, I immediately submerge it completely in the warm glaze. I lift it out, let the excess drip off, and place it on a wire rack (with parchment underneath for drips).
- Repeat and enjoy these glazed Air Fryer Donuts quickly!
- For Chocolate Frosted Donuts:
- While donuts cook/are warm, I prep. In one medium bowl, I mix together ½ cup melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
- In another medium bowl, I whisk together the 1 ½ cup powdered sugar, ¼ cup cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 4 tablespoons melted butter (this is additional melted butter for the frosting), and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined and smooth.
- I take a warm donut, dunk just the bottom half into the melted butter/vanilla mixture (Note: original recipe differs slightly here, adapt as preferred – dipping bottom helps frosting stick or dipping whole adds richness).
- Then, I dunk the top half of the donut into the chocolate frosting.
- Immediately, I top the frosting with sprinkles before it sets.
- Repeat and enjoy these chocolate Air Fryer Donuts!
- For Powdered Sugar Donuts:
- While donuts cook/are warm, I prep. In one medium bowl, I mix together ½ cup melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
- I place 1 cup of powdered sugar in another medium-sized bowl.
- I take a warm donut, submerge it completely in the melted butter/vanilla mixture.
- Then, I immediately dunk it generously into the powdered sugar, rolling to coat completely.
- Repeat and enjoy these simple Air Fryer Donuts!
Tips and Tricks for the BEST Air Fryer Donuts
Here are my secrets for making perfect Air Fryer Donuts every time:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking and browning. Work in batches!
- Grease the Basket: Lightly spraying the basket prevents sticking.
- Use Flaky Style Biscuits: Refrigerated biscuits labeled “flaky layers” (like Pillsbury Grands Flaky Layers) often yield a texture closer to a bakery donut.
- Work Quickly with Toppings: Apply glazes and toppings while the donuts are still warm so everything adheres properly. Glazes especially set fast.
- Adjust Cook Time: Air fryers vary. Your donuts might need slightly more or less than 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the first batch to determine the perfect time for your machine.
How to Serve
These Air Fryer Donuts are best served warm, shortly after they are made and topped! Enjoy them:
- For Breakfast: A fun and easy weekend breakfast treat.
- As a Snack: A quick and delicious afternoon pick-me-up.
- For Parties: Make a variety of toppings for a fun donut bar.
- With Coffee or Milk: The perfect pairing!
Make Ahead and Storage
These donuts are definitely best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them loosely covered at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. Note that glazed donuts may become slightly sticky, and all types will lose their initial crispness.
- Reheating: You can briefly reheat them in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at around 325°F (160°C) to warm them slightly, but they won’t be quite the same as fresh.
FAQs about Air Fryer Donuts
- Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
- Yes, but the texture and cooking time might differ slightly from using canned refrigerated biscuits.
- Can I bake these in the oven instead?
- Yes, place the cut biscuits on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-12 minutes, or until golden brown. They won’t be quite as “fried” tasting as the air fryer version.
- Why did my glaze/frosting get hard too fast?
- Glazes and frostings made with powdered sugar tend to set quickly, especially when applied to warm donuts. Work quickly and have your toppings ready! Re-warming the glaze slightly can help if needed.
Enjoy these incredibly easy, fun, and delicious Air Fryer Donuts! It’s a fantastic shortcut to donut happiness.
Print
Air Fryer Donuts (4 Ways!)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast, Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Description
Air Fryer Donuts four ways: cinnamon sugar, Krispy Kreme glazed, chocolate frosted, and powdered sugar! These homemade treats are buttery, flaky, and made easily using refrigerated biscuit dough in your air fryer.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Donuts (for all variations):
- 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands! – should contain 8 biscuits)
- Non-stick cooking spray
Butter Vanilla Dip (for Cinnamon Sugar, Glazed, Powdered Sugar variations):
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Variation 1: Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
Variation 2: Krispy Kreme Glazed Topping:
- 1 ½ tablespoons vanilla extract, divided (1 Tbsp for butter dip above, ½ Tbsp for glaze)
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- (Uses ½ cup melted butter + 1 Tbsp vanilla from Butter Vanilla Dip list)
Variation 3: Chocolate Frosted Topping:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for frosting)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Sprinkles, for garnish
- (Uses a separate ½ cup melted butter + 1 Tbsp vanilla for initial dip – see instructions)
Variation 4: Powdered Sugar Topping:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- (Uses ½ cup melted butter + 1 Tbsp vanilla from Butter Vanilla Dip list)
Instructions
Prepare Dough & Air Fryer:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease the inside basket with cooking spray.
- Open the can of biscuits. Separate the biscuits.
- Use a 1.5-inch round cookie cutter to cut a hole in the center of each biscuit. Separate the donut rings from the donut holes. Set aside on a clean work surface.
2. Air Fry Donuts & Holes (Common Step):
- Place 4 donut rings (or all the donut holes) in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; work in batches.
- Air fry for 5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time may vary slightly based on your air fryer.
- Carefully remove cooked donuts/holes from the air fryer. Repeat with remaining dough.
3. Finish Donuts (Choose Your Variation):
-
Variation 1: Cinnamon Sugar:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for the dip.
- In another medium bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- While donuts/holes are still warm, submerge each one completely in the melted butter/vanilla mixture.
- Immediately transfer the buttered donut/hole to the cinnamon-sugar mixture and toss generously to coat all sides.
- Enjoy immediately.
-
Variation 2: Krispy Kreme Glazed:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for the dip.
- In another medium bowl, place powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract. Microwave for 30 seconds, then whisk until smooth to create the glaze.
- While donuts/holes are still warm, submerge each one completely in the melted butter/vanilla mixture.
- Immediately dip or submerge each buttered donut/hole into the warm glaze. Place on a wire rack to allow excess glaze to drip off.
- Enjoy immediately (glaze will set slightly as it cools).
-
Variation 3: Chocolate Frosted:
- In a medium bowl, mix together 1/2 cup melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for the initial dip.
- In another medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 4 tablespoons melted butter, and salt until smooth to create the chocolate frosting.
- While donuts/holes are still warm, dunk the bottom half of each one into the melted butter/vanilla dip mixture.
- Then, dunk the top half into the chocolate frosting.
- Immediately top the frosting with sprinkles.
- Enjoy immediately.
-
Variation 4: Powdered Sugar:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for the dip.
- Place 1 cup of powdered sugar in another medium bowl.
- While donuts/holes are still warm, submerge each one completely in the melted butter/vanilla mixture.
- Immediately transfer the buttered donut/hole to the powdered sugar and toss generously to coat all sides.
- Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Biscuits: Large refrigerated biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands!) work best. Ensure they are the type that can be separated or easily cut.
- Cutting Holes: A small round cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, or even a bottle cap can be used to cut the holes. Don’t discard the holes – air fry them too!
- Air Frying: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which ensures even cooking and browning. Cooking times may vary by air fryer model.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is listed; if using salted, you may want to omit or reduce salt in the chocolate frosting.
- Serving: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm shortly after making.
- Storage: Store leftovers (if any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days, though they will lose their initial crispness.