Air fryer biscuit donuts are the ultimate quick and delicious treat—no deep frying required! Using store-bought biscuit dough, you can whip up golden, fluffy donuts in under 20 minutes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, this easy homemade recipe delivers bakery-style results with minimal effort and cleanup.
If you’ve ever craved warm, golden donuts but didn’t want to deal with hot oil, messy cleanup, or a trip to the bakery, then air fryer biscuit donuts are about to become your new favorite hack. These homemade treats are shockingly simple, incredibly delicious, and ready in less time than it takes to brew a pot of coffee. Using just a can of refrigerated biscuit dough and your trusty air fryer, you can create donuts that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely irresistible.
What makes this recipe so special is its accessibility. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker or own fancy equipment. No stand mixer, no proofing, no yeast—just pop open a tube of biscuits, cut out the centers, and let your air fryer work its magic. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy morning or treating yourself to a cozy weekend brunch, air fryer biscuit donuts deliver comfort and convenience in every bite.
Key Takeaways
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes using just 3 main ingredients—canned biscuits, oil, and sugar.
- Healthier Than Fried Donuts: Air frying uses little to no oil, reducing fat and calories compared to traditional deep-frying.
- No Special Equipment Needed: Uses a standard air fryer and common kitchen tools—no donut cutter required.
- Customizable Flavors: Add cinnamon sugar, glaze, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles for endless variations.
- Perfect Texture: Achieves a crispy exterior and soft, pillowy interior that rivals bakery donuts.
- Kid-Friendly Activity: Simple steps make it a fun cooking project for families with children.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead and reheat for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.
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Why Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts Are a Game-Changer
Let’s be honest: traditional donut-making can feel intimidating. From mixing dough to monitoring oil temperature, it’s a process that requires time, skill, and patience. But with air fryer biscuit donuts, all that complexity disappears. This method strips away the fuss and focuses on flavor and ease. The air fryer circulates hot air around the dough, creating a crispy, golden crust without submerging the donuts in oil. The result? A lighter, less greasy treat that still tastes indulgent.
Another major advantage is speed. Most air fryer biscuit donut recipes take less than 20 minutes from start to finish. That’s faster than preheating an oven for baked donuts and way quicker than waiting for oil to heat up. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just wipe down the air fryer basket instead of dealing with splattered oil and greasy pans. For busy parents, college students, or anyone short on time, this recipe is a total lifesaver.
And let’s not forget the taste. Many people assume that skipping the deep fry means sacrificing flavor, but that’s not the case here. The air fryer gives the donuts a satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy—just like the ones you’d get from a local donut shop. With the right toppings, they can easily rival gourmet versions, but at a fraction of the cost and effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about air fryer biscuit donuts is how few ingredients they require. You probably already have most of them in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic batch:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough: Look for the flaky or buttermilk variety. Avoid the “homestyle” or “grands” if they’re too thick—standard biscuits work best.
- 2–3 tablespoons neutral oil: Such as vegetable, canola, or avocado oil. A light brushing helps the donuts crisp up and prevents sticking.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: For rolling the warm donuts to give them that classic sweet coating.
- Optional flavor boosters: Ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, or citrus zest can be mixed into the sugar for extra flavor.
That’s it! No yeast, no eggs, no complicated steps. If you want to get creative, you can also prepare a simple glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled donuts. But even without extras, the base recipe is delicious on its own.
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Biscuits
Not all canned biscuits are created equal. For the best air fryer biscuit donuts, choose a brand that’s flaky and tender—like Pillsbury Grands! Buttermilk Biscuits or similar. Avoid the extra-thick or “jumbo” varieties, as they may not cook through evenly in the air fryer. Also, make sure the biscuits are at room temperature before using. Cold dough can lead to uneven cooking and a gummy center.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making air fryer biscuit donuts is so simple, even a beginner can master it on the first try. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time.
Step 1: Prep the Dough
Start by opening the can of biscuits and separating them. Use a small cookie cutter, the cap of a water bottle, or even a clean bottle to cut out the center of each biscuit. This creates the classic donut shape. Don’t toss the holes—they cook up into adorable mini donuts that are perfect for snacking or adding to the batch.
Place the cut biscuits and holes on a plate or tray. Lightly brush both sides with oil using a pastry brush or your fingers. This step is crucial—it helps the sugar stick and promotes even browning.
Step 2: Air Fry the Donuts
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. While it heats, arrange the biscuits in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and steaming instead of crisping.
Air fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through. The donuts are done when they’re golden brown and puffed up. The holes will cook faster—usually in 4–5 minutes—so keep an eye on them.
Step 3: Coat in Sugar
As soon as the donuts come out of the air fryer, roll them in granulated sugar while they’re still warm. The heat helps the sugar adhere beautifully. For a cinnamon sugar version, mix ½ cup sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon before rolling.
Let the donuts cool for a minute or two before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but they’ll stay soft for several hours if stored in an airtight container.
Creative Variations and Toppings
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the fun really begins. Air fryer biscuit donuts are a blank canvas for creativity. Here are some delicious ways to switch things up:
- Cinnamon Sugar: Mix sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, spiced coating.
- Glazed Donuts: Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla. Dip warm donuts in the glaze and let excess drip off.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil and drizzle over cooled donuts.
- Maple Pecan: Roll in a mixture of brown sugar, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle with maple syrup.
- Fruit-Infused: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the sugar for a bright, citrusy twist.
You can also fill the donuts with jam or Nutella using a piping bag and a small tip. Simply poke a hole in the side and squeeze in the filling after frying.
Kid-Friendly Fun
These donuts are a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen. Let them help cut out the centers, brush on the oil, or roll the warm donuts in sugar. It’s a safe, simple activity that teaches basic cooking skills and encourages creativity. Plus, kids love eating something they helped make!
Storage and Reheating Tips
While air fryer biscuit donuts are best enjoyed fresh, they can be stored and reheated for later enjoyment.
To store, place cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes. This restores the crispness without drying them out. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the donuts soggy.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing school lunches, or just craving something sweet, air fryer biscuit donuts fit the bill. They’re quick enough for weekday mornings but special enough for weekend treats. They’re also a great way to use up leftover biscuits or impress guests with minimal effort.
Plus, because they’re made in an air fryer, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. You get all the flavor and texture without the guilt. And with so many topping options, you can customize them to match any holiday, season, or personal preference.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer biscuit donuts are proof that delicious doesn’t have to be difficult. With just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer, you can create a treat that’s crispy, sweet, and utterly satisfying. It’s a recipe that’s fast, fun, and full of flavor—perfect for busy days and lazy weekends alike.
So the next time you’re craving donuts, skip the drive-thru and try this easy homemade version. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned?
Yes! You can use your favorite homemade biscuit recipe. Just roll out the dough, cut into circles, and follow the same air frying instructions. Homemade dough may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is recommended for even cooking and better browning. Most air fryers only need 2–3 minutes to reach 350°F, so it’s a quick step that makes a big difference.
Can I make these donuts without oil?
You can skip the oil, but the donuts may not brown as well or get as crispy. A light brush of oil helps achieve that golden, bakery-style finish.
How do I prevent the donuts from sticking?
Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil or use a non-stick spray. Also, avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can cause sticking and uneven cooking.
Can I freeze air fryer biscuit donuts?
Yes! Freeze cooled donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 300°F to restore freshness.
What if my donuts are too doughy inside?
This usually happens if the biscuits are too thick or the air fryer isn’t hot enough. Use standard-sized biscuits and ensure the air fryer is preheated. Flip halfway through for even cooking.