Craving warm, cinnamon-sugar donuts without the deep fryer mess? These Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are your new go-to treat. They’re crisp on the outside, soft inside, and ready in just 10 minutes. Using canned biscuit dough makes them incredibly simple for beginners, and the buttery cinnamon-sugar coating gives every bite that nostalgic homemade flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these flaky donuts taste like they came straight from your favorite bakery—without all the effort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
You’ll love how quick and foolproof these donuts are. With just four basic ingredients, you’ll have bakery-style donuts in under 10 minutes. There’s no need for oil splatter or waiting for dough to rise. The air fryer creates a golden, crisp shell while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
These donuts are also a bit lighter than traditional fried versions, making them an easy, family-friendly treat. You can customize the flavor too—try different glazes, spices, or sugar blends to fit your mood. Kids especially love shaping the dough and coating each donut in cinnamon sugar. Plus, cleanup takes only minutes. Whether you’re new to air frying or just want a quick dessert fix, this recipe always delivers sweet, flaky perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a few pantry staples. Start with one can of jumbo flaky refrigerated biscuit dough—these create that soft, layered texture. Melted butter adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly. Granulated sugar gives that classic crunchy coating, and ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth. Want to change things up? Swap the cinnamon sugar for pumpkin spice or chai blend. You can even make maple or vanilla glazes for a café-style twist. Each ingredient works together for that comforting, melt-in-your-mouth bite that makes these Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts so addictive.
Tools and Equipment
You’ll need an air fryer, of course. A small biscuit cutter or bottle cap works great for cutting out the holes. Have a few bowls handy for melted butter and cinnamon sugar coating. Tongs make it easy to flip the donuts while cooking. Lastly, use a cooling rack so they stay crisp as they set. No special tools are required, and most kitchens already have everything needed to whip these up anytime.
How to Make Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts (Step-by-Step)
Prepare the Dough
Open your can of biscuit dough and separate each biscuit. Using a small cutter, make a one-inch hole in the center of each to form donuts. Save the dough rounds for mini donut holes. If you’d like, shape the edges gently to round them out.
Air Fry the Donuts
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray. Place 4–6 donuts inside, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and repeat with the rest. Don’t forget to air fry the donut holes for about 2–3 minutes total—they’re quick and fun to snack on while you coat the rest.
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Melt the butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar together. Dip each cooled donut into the butter, coating both sides. Then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully covered. Let them rest on a rack for a few minutes so the coating sets and becomes slightly crunchy.
Flavor Variations and Toppings
Classic Cinnamon Sugar
The simple combo of cinnamon and sugar gives that timeless, nostalgic donut flavor. It’s warm, cozy, and satisfying every single time.
Glaze Options
Try mixing powdered sugar with milk and a splash of vanilla for a smooth vanilla glaze. For a chocolate twist, use cocoa powder and milk. You can even blend mashed fruit with powdered sugar for a colorful fruit glaze that’s naturally sweet.
Spice Alternatives
Feeling adventurous? Use chai spice for a fragrant, spiced donut or pumpkin spice for fall mornings. Maple sugar is another fun option for a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Seasonal toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts make them festive for any occasion.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Choose flaky biscuit dough for the best texture—it puffs beautifully in the air fryer. Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket so each donut crisps properly. If your air fryer runs hot, do a quick test batch first to find the ideal time. Let the donuts cool slightly before coating them, or the butter will soak in too much. Finally, spray your air fryer basket before each batch to prevent sticking. These small steps make a big difference for flaky, tender donuts with that irresistible cinnamon crunch.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Store your donuts in an airtight container lined with a paper towel at room temperature for up to two days. The coating softens slightly over time, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for about 2 minutes to restore crispness. For longer storage, freeze uncoated donuts up to three months. Wrap them individually, thaw at room temperature, then dip in butter and sugar once defrosted. This method keeps them tasting fresh and delicious every time.
Serving Ideas and Occasions
Serve these warm with coffee or hot chocolate for the ultimate breakfast treat. They’re also perfect for brunch platters, holiday mornings, or as a sweet snack after school. Customize them with colorful glazes for birthdays or themed events. However you serve them, these Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts always bring smiles and cozy kitchen vibes.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites
- Air Fryer Apple Fritters
- Crispy Air Fryer Churro Bites
- Air Fryer Fried Pickles
- Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Air Fryer Baked Potato
Conclusion or Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are proof that great taste doesn’t need complicated steps. They’re buttery, flaky, and covered in sweet cinnamon sugar, ready in just minutes. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a family breakfast, they’re sure to impress. So grab a can of biscuit dough and your air fryer—your new favorite donut recipe is waiting. You can also follow more quick air fryer ideas on Pinterest for endless inspiration.
Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Equipment
- Air fryer Preheat to 375°F (190°C)
- Biscuit Cutter or Bottle Cap For cutting donut holes
- Mixing bowls For butter and cinnamon sugar
- Cooling rack For setting donuts after coating
- Tongs For flipping and removing donuts safely
Ingredients
- 1 can jumbo flaky refrigerated biscuit dough (e.g. Pillsbury Grands)
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Remove biscuit dough from can and separate each biscuit. Cut a 1-inch hole in the center of each biscuit using a cutter or bottle cap.
- Place 4–6 donuts in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Repeat with remaining donuts. Air fry donut holes for 2–3 minutes total.
- Melt butter in one bowl. Mix sugar and cinnamon in another. Dip each cooled donut in butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar to coat. Let set on a cooling rack.
