EASY AIR FRYER DONUTS: A Delicious Homemade Delight Without the Deep Fryer

Introduction

Donuts – the golden rings of happiness – have long been a staple of comfort food across cultures. Whether it’s a classic glazed donut from your favorite bakery, or a chocolate-dipped delight filled with rich cream, donuts are universally loved. However, traditional donuts are typically deep-fried, often loaded with excess oil, and not always the best option for those seeking a healthier lifestyle.

Enter the air fryer: a revolutionary kitchen appliance that gives you the ability to achieve that crispy, golden-brown texture without deep frying. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make easy air fryer donuts that are not only delicious but also significantly lighter than their deep-fried counterparts.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these donuts are quick, easy, and highly customizable. You’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients and a touch of creativity can deliver bakery-style results at home.

In this article, you’ll discover:

• Why air fryer donuts are a game-changer

• Ingredients and tools you’ll need

• Step-by-step instructions for making both biscuit-based and yeast-based air fryer donuts

• Tips for glazes and toppings

• Nutritional insights

• Troubleshooting and FAQ

• Final thoughts and serving suggestions

Let’s dive into the delicious world of air fryer donuts that are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside – and entirely irresistible.

Recipe: How to Make Easy Air Fryer Donuts

✅ Option 1: 10-Minute Air Fryer Donuts with Canned Biscuit Dough

If you’re short on time or new to baking, this version is your best friend. All you need is refrigerated biscuit dough and a few pantry staples. In under 15 minutes, you’ll be snacking on warm, golden donuts that taste like a bakery indulgence.

🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

🍴 Tools:

• Air fryer

• Small round cutter or bottle cap (for the donut holes)

• Pastry brush

• Mixing bowl

• Tongs

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and optimal browning.

Step 2: Prepare the Donuts

Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Using a small round cutter or the cap from a bottle, cut out a hole from the center of each biscuit to form donut shapes. Keep the cut-out centers — they make perfect donut holes!

Step 3: Air Fry the Donuts

Spray or brush the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Place 3–4 donuts in the basket without overlapping (you may need to work in batches). Air fry at 350°F for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the donuts are golden brown and puffed.

Step 4: Coat the Donuts

While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture (made by combining the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl). You can also dip them in vanilla or chocolate glaze (more on that below).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the donuts cool slightly and enjoy warm. They’re best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.

🥄 Optional Glaze & Toppings

While cinnamon sugar is a classic, here are some other topping ideas:

🍫 Chocolate Glaze

• ½ cup chocolate chips

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional for shine)

• 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions: Microwave all ingredients together in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.

🍯 Classic Vanilla Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions: Whisk until smooth and dip your warm donuts in. Let them sit for a few minutes to set.

🍓 Strawberry Glaze

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 tablespoon strawberry jam or purée

Instructions: Mix together for a pink fruity glaze.

🍩 Option 2: Yeast-Based Air Fryer Donuts (From Scratch)

If you’re looking for a more authentic bakery-style donut, this yeast-raised version is the real deal. Though it takes more time, the results are light, fluffy, and wonderfully chewy – just like traditional donuts, but with much less oil.

🧾 Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

• ¾ cup warm milk (100–110°F / 38–43°C)

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

For brushing:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For topping:

• Cinnamon sugar or glaze (see above)

🍴 Tools:

• Mixing bowls

• Stand mixer (optional)

• Rolling pin

• Donut cutter or two round cutters

• Air fryer

• Pastry brush

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, mix the warm milk with sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until bubbly. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive—try again with a fresh packet.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add the egg, melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to ½ inch thickness. Cut out donut shapes and place them on parchment paper. Let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Air Fry

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Place 3–4 donuts in the basket and air fry for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Brush with melted butter immediately and roll in sugar or dip in glaze.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the donuts cool slightly before enjoying. Glaze or top as desired.

🍩 Bonus: Donut Holes in the Air Fryer

Don’t waste those centers! Toss the donut holes into the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F. Then roll them in butter and cinnamon sugar or dip them in glaze. They’re bite-sized bursts of happiness!

🔄 Variations and Add-ins

• Filled Donuts: Skip the hole, cook the whole biscuit or dough, and once cooled, fill with jam, custard, or Nutella using a piping bag.

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives. Many canned biscuit doughs are accidentally vegan.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular flour for homemade dough.

🧠 Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts

1. Don’t Overcrowd: Air needs to circulate. Cook in batches.

2. Brush Lightly with Butter: This helps toppings stick and mimics that fried flavor.

3. Don’t Skip Preheating: An even start gives better rise and color.

4. Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking if your air fryer basket tends to cling.

5. Use a Thermometer: Optional, but for yeast donuts, internal temp should be ~190°F when done.

🥗 Nutrition Snapshot (Biscuit Version per donut, approx.)

• Calories: 200–250

• Fat: 10g

• Carbs: 25g

• Protein: 3g

• Sugar: 10g (varies with toppings)

This is roughly 30–40% fewer calories and 70–80% less fat than deep-fried donuts.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

You can make the dough and refrigerate it overnight for the yeast version. Biscuit-based ones are best fresh.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes.

Can I freeze air fryer donuts?

Yes! Freeze baked or unbaked yeast donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and air fry or reheat.

Do I need to flip the donuts?

Yes, flipping halfway ensures even browning and prevents one side from being soggy.

🎉 Conclusion

Making easy air fryer donuts at home is a delightful way to enjoy one of life’s sweetest treats—without the hassle and heaviness of deep frying. Whether you opt for the super-speedy biscuit version or the more traditional yeast-raised method, the results are golden, fluffy, and entirely satisfying.

This recipe offers something for everyone—from novice bakers looking for a fun weekend activity to seasoned home cooks seeking a healthier take on indulgence. The air fryer has transformed the way we approach everyday cooking, and donuts are no exception.

With endless possibilities for glazes, toppings, and fillings, you can personalize these donuts to your heart’s content. From chocolate drizzles to jelly-filled centers or cinnamon sugar coatings, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them.

So, the next time a donut craving strikes, skip the drive-thru. Head to your kitchen, pull out the air fryer, and whip up a batch of irresistible homemade donuts in minutes.

Because sometimes, the best things in life are just a few ingredients and a crispy golden swirl away. 🍩✨