Air-Fryer Doughnuts: Quick, Tender, Cinnamon-Sugar Treats

Nothing compares to the aroma of fresh doughnuts baking in the kitchen. Golden, tender, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, doughnuts are a classic treat beloved by children and adults alike. While traditional recipes often call for deep-frying—an enjoyable but sometimes messy and time-consuming process—this air-fryer method makes it simple to enjoy warm, fluffy doughnuts without the extra oil or clean-up.

This recipe uses refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, making it both quick and approachable for families, beginners, or anyone craving a homemade dessert. Using an air fryer allows the doughnuts to puff beautifully and develop a light golden-brown crust in just minutes. With a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating and the option to make doughnut holes simultaneously, this recipe provides a perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and fun.

Whether you’re preparing a weekend breakfast, a sweet snack, or a surprise treat for the kids, these air-fryer doughnuts are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll guide you through each step, share tips for perfect results, and answer frequently asked questions about air-fryer baking.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 8 doughnuts and 8 doughnut holes.

Doughnuts

• 1 tube (16.3 ounces) large refrigerated buttermilk biscuits (8 count)

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Butter Glaze

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Method

Follow these steps for perfectly tender and sweet air-fryer doughnuts.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Separate the refrigerated biscuits.
3. Using a 1-inch round cutter, cut out the centers of each biscuit to create a hole. Save the centers to make doughnut holes.

Step 2: Arrange in the Air Fryer

1. Lightly grease the air-fryer basket or tray.
2. Place the doughnuts in a single layer, leaving space between each for air circulation.

Step 3: Air-Fry the Doughnuts

1. Cook doughnuts for approximately 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown and puffed.
2. For the doughnut holes, cook in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

1. In a shallow dish, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Coat the Doughnuts

1. Brush the warm doughnuts and doughnut holes with the butter mixture.
2. Toss immediately in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. Doughnuts can also be enjoyed at room temperature but are most tender fresh from the air fryer.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fryer Doughnuts

1. Do not overcrowd the basket: Air needs to circulate for even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
2. Cut the centers evenly: This ensures doughnut holes are uniform and bake at the same rate as the rings.
3. Use day-old biscuits for firmer doughnuts: Fresh biscuits work fine, but slightly firmer dough produces a more defined shape.
4. Adjust sugar to taste: For less sweetness, reduce the cinnamon-sugar coating.
5. Optional toppings: Drizzle with chocolate glaze, dust with powdered sugar, or use sprinkles for fun variations.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with milk, coffee, or hot chocolate for a classic breakfast treat.
• Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced morning snack.
• Use doughnut holes for party platters or as a fun finger-food dessert.
• Top with whipped cream or a fruit compote for a decadent brunch option.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep cooled doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Air fryer: 2–3 minutes at 350°F
  • Oven: 5–7 minutes at 350°F
    Avoid microwaving as it can make doughnuts chewy rather than tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen biscuits instead of refrigerated?
A: Yes, but thaw them fully before separating and cutting. Using partially frozen dough may result in uneven cooking.

Q2: Can I make these without an air fryer?
A: You can bake them in a conventional oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be as crisp as air-fried versions.

Q3: Can I make a larger batch?
A: Absolutely. Cook in batches, keeping the first batch warm in a low oven (200°F) while cooking additional doughnuts.

Q4: Can I skip the vanilla in the butter glaze?
A: Yes, vanilla adds a subtle flavor. Omitting it won’t affect texture but slightly changes flavor.

Q5: How do I store doughnut holes separately?
A: Place cooled doughnut holes in a separate airtight container. They may absorb moisture if stored with doughnut rings.

Q6: Can I make a glaze instead of cinnamon-sugar coating?
A: Yes, simple powdered sugar glaze or chocolate glaze works perfectly. Just drizzle over warm doughnuts.

Nutrition (Per 1 Doughnut + 1 Doughnut Hole)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat 8g)
• Cholesterol: 23mg
• Sodium: 684mg
• Carbohydrates: 33g (Sugars 11g, Fiber 1g)
• Protein: 4g

Conclusion

Air-fryer doughnuts offer all the indulgence of a bakery treat without the mess and extra oil of deep frying. In just 25 minutes, you can have soft, golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated doughnuts and doughnut holes that are tender, sweet, and delightfully crunchy. Perfect for family breakfasts, brunches, or casual desserts, this recipe is approachable, fun, and satisfying.

With tips for air fryer efficiency, storage, and flavor variations, you can confidently make this recipe over and over, customizing it to your family’s preferences. Once you try these air-fryer doughnuts, you’ll never want to go back to the fryer again!

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