Save to Pinterest The air fryer was still new on my counter when I spotted a can of biscuit dough in the fridge and had a wild idea. I punched out the centers with a shot glass, tossed them in the basket, and eight minutes later my kitchen smelled like a carnival. My neighbor knocked on the door asking if I'd opened a donut shop. That morning, with butter on my fingers and cinnamon sugar everywhere, I realized some of the best recipes don't need hours or fancy equipment.
I made these on a rainy Saturday when my niece was visiting, and she insisted on coating every single donut herself. She used so much cinnamon sugar that the bowl was nearly empty by the fourth one, but her joy was contagious. We ate them warm on the couch, fingers sticky, laughing at a movie neither of us was really watching. That batch disappeared faster than any dessert I've ever made, and she still asks me to make them every time she comes over.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret shortcut that makes this recipe foolproof, choose a brand with layers for the fluffiest texture.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on while the donuts are hot, it helps the cinnamon sugar stick like magic.
- Granulated sugar: The base of your coating, it creates that classic sweet crunch on the outside.
- Ground cinnamon: Use fresh cinnamon if you have it, the aroma makes all the difference and fills your kitchen with warmth.
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer:
- Set it to 350°F and let it run for 3 minutes so the donuts start cooking the second they hit the basket. This ensures even browning and that signature puff.
- Shape your donuts:
- Pop open the biscuit can and use a small round cutter or even a bottle cap to punch out the centers. Save those little circles, they make perfect donut holes for snacking.
- Prep the basket:
- Give the air fryer basket a light spritz of nonstick spray so nothing sticks. I learned this the hard way after scraping off half a donut my first try.
- Arrange and cook:
- Lay the donuts in a single layer without touching, they need room to puff up. Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping them halfway so both sides get golden and gorgeous.
- Make the cinnamon sugar:
- While they cook, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. The smell alone will have everyone wandering into the kitchen.
- Coat while hot:
- As soon as the donuts come out, brush them with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon sugar. The heat makes the coating stick like a dream.
- Cook the donut holes:
- Toss the centers in the basket and air fry for 3 to 4 minutes. They cook faster and make the perfect little two bite treats.
Save to Pinterest There was a Sunday morning when I made a double batch for a brunch potluck, and they were gone before the coffee finished brewing. People kept asking for the recipe, surprised when I admitted it started with a can of biscuit dough. One friend said it reminded her of the donuts her grandmother used to fry, and that compliment meant more to me than any five star review ever could.
Getting the Perfect Texture
The key to fluffy donuts is not overcrowding the basket, giving them space lets the hot air circulate and puff them up evenly. I used to cram in as many as I could fit, but they'd come out dense and unevenly cooked. Now I cook in batches, and the difference is night and day. If your air fryer runs hot, check them a minute early to avoid over browning.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the cinnamon sugar version, the possibilities open up in the best way. I've tossed them in powdered sugar for a simpler finish, drizzled them with chocolate glaze for a richer treat, and even rolled them in maple sugar during fall. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon sugar adds a subtle warmth that feels a little fancy. My favorite experiment was brushing them with honey butter instead of plain melted butter, it added a faint sweetness that balanced the spice perfectly.
Serving and Storing
These donuts are at their absolute best when they're still warm, the outside crisp and the inside tender. If you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Reheat them in the air fryer for a minute or two to bring back some of that fresh made texture.
- Pair them with strong coffee or a mug of hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy morning.
- Set out extra cinnamon sugar so everyone can add more if they want.
- If you're making these for a crowd, keep a batch warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.
Save to Pinterest There's something wonderful about a treat that feels special but doesn't ask for much from you. These donuts deliver all the joy of a weekend baking project in under twenty minutes, and that's a kind of kitchen magic I never get tired of.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh dough instead of canned biscuits?
Yes, you can make your own biscuit dough from scratch. Use your favorite biscuit recipe and cut into donut shapes before air frying. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on dough thickness.
- → How do I prevent the donuts from sticking?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray before arranging the donuts. Ensure they don't touch each other during cooking to allow proper air circulation.
- → What's the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.
- → Can I make donut holes separately?
Absolutely! Cut centers from the biscuits and air fry them separately at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Coat with the same cinnamon sugar mixture for consistent flavor.
- → What temperature works best for golden donuts?
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning halfway through. This temperature ensures even browning and fluffy interiors without burning.
- → How can I make these dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based butter for the melted butter coating. Check your biscuit dough brand to ensure it contains no dairy, as some commercial varieties may include milk products.