Unlock the secret to bakery-quality donuts right in your own kitchen with this astonishingly simple air fryer recipe! Say goodbye to the mess and fuss of deep frying and embrace a healthier, quicker way to indulge your sweet cravings. These homemade air fryer biscuit donuts boast a gorgeously light golden-brown exterior, giving way to a tender, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. Perfectly sized for any occasion and ready in mere minutes, they offer the ultimate comfort food experience without the need for a special trip to the local donut shop. Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm, freshly made donuts, a truly delightful treat that will transform ordinary mornings into something extraordinary.
Envision a crisp, chilly morning, perhaps a lazy weekend or a well-deserved weekday treat. What could be better than a steaming mug of coffee or a glass of cold milk paired with one (or maybe two, we won’t tell!) of these delectable cinnamon sugar donuts? Each bite delivers a comforting blend of warm spice and sweet pastry, creating an irresistible experience. We’re confident that once you savor the simplicity and sensational flavor of these air fryer donuts, they’ll become a beloved staple in your regular rotation of quick and easy recipes. They’re not just donuts; they’re a little moment of joy, perfectly crafted at home.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Easy Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
There’s a reason these fluffy air fryer donuts are rapidly becoming a go-to treat for busy families and dessert enthusiasts alike. Beyond their undeniable deliciousness, they offer a multitude of benefits that set them apart from their deep-fried counterparts. First and foremost, the preparation is incredibly quick and remarkably easy, transforming a simple can of refrigerated biscuits into a gourmet-like pastry in under 15 minutes. This speed makes them ideal for last-minute cravings or an impromptu breakfast treat.
Moreover, these aren’t your typical greasy donuts. The air fryer circulates hot air, cooking the biscuits to perfection without submerging them in oil. This results in a significantly lighter, less oily donut that still delivers on texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy your sweet indulgence with a little less guilt. They’re perfect for a relaxed Saturday morning, a quick after-school snack, or whenever you desire something sweet and satisfying. Their irresistible taste and effortless creation are guaranteed to make them your new favorite air fryer recipe.
If you’re already a fan of these delightful air fryer biscuit donuts and are eager to explore more scrumptious pastries, you’re in for a treat! We highly recommend trying our Lemon Sweet Rolls for a zesty, sweet indulgence, or perhaps our unique Baked Banana Fritters for a fruity twist. And for those who adore seasonal flavors, our Pumpkin Spice Air Fryer Doughnuts offer a warm and inviting option, perfect for autumn days or whenever you crave a hint of fall spice. Each recipe promises the same ease and deliciousness you’ve come to expect.
Transforming Pillsbury Grands Biscuits into Irresistible Donuts
For families constantly on the go, discovering convenient ways to enjoy homemade treats is truly a game-changer. Making donuts from Pillsbury Grands biscuits in an air fryer is precisely that—a culinary revelation that brings the fresh-from-the-bakery taste right into your home without the usual time commitment or greasy aftermath. This innovative method allows you to whip up a batch of warm, pillowy donuts in mere minutes, making it an ideal activity for kids and adults alike.
The beauty of using refrigerated biscuits lies in their incredible versatility and convenience. They serve as the perfect foundation for creating both classic donut shapes and delightful donut holes, all from a single can. This means more variety and more fun for everyone! The entire family will enjoy the process, from cutting out the centers to customizing their toppings, turning a simple recipe into a memorable bonding experience. It’s an effortless way to satisfy sweet cravings with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Crafting these delectable air fryer biscuit donuts requires just a handful of simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. The magic truly lies in transforming these common components into something extraordinary. For the full, detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post where you’ll find our convenient printable recipe card.
- Refrigerated Jumbo Biscuits: The star of our show! For the best results and the most authentic donut texture, we highly recommend using a brand like Pillsbury Grands Biscuits. Their large size and flaky layers create perfectly puffy donuts.
- Granulated Sugar: This forms the delightful sweet coating for our donuts. While granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon is classic, feel free to experiment with powdered sugar for a softer, more traditional glazed donut texture.
- Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice is what gives our donuts that irresistible aroma and classic flavor. It’s essential for that cozy, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon sugar experience. Mmm, pure comfort!
- Butter (Melted): Melted butter acts as the crucial adhesive for our cinnamon sugar coating, ensuring every inch of your warm donut is perfectly covered. It also adds a rich, luxurious flavor that enhances the overall taste.
As you continue reading, you’ll discover a wealth of valuable tips and clever tricks, creative substitutions, and answers to frequently asked questions that will help you master these incredible air fryer donuts. We’re here to guide you every step of the way to ensure your homemade treats are nothing short of perfection.
Effortless Steps: How to Make Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Preparing these delightful donuts is surprisingly quick and straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have warm, homemade donuts ready to enjoy in no time.
First, begin by preheating your air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 180 degrees Celsius). While your air fryer warms up, grab a small mixing bowl and combine your granulated sugar with ground cinnamon, stirring until well blended. Set this aromatic cinnamon sugar mixture aside; it will be used for coating your freshly air-fried donuts.
Next, carefully open your can of refrigerated biscuits. Lay each biscuit flat on a clean cutting board. Using a small biscuit cutter, a round cookie cutter, or even a shot glass (approximately 1 inch in diameter), gently cut a hole in the center of each biscuit. Don’t discard these smaller pieces; they make fantastic donut holes!
Once your air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with a non-aerosol olive oil spray or coconut oil spray. It’s crucial to avoid traditional non-stick sprays (like Pam) as they can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer over time. Arrange your biscuit donuts in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch to allow for even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for approximately 5 minutes, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown hue.
As soon as the donuts are done and still warm from the air fryer, gently brush them all over with melted butter using a pastry brush. Immediately roll each buttered donut in your prepared cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure they are fully coated. The warmth of the donut will help the butter and sugar adhere perfectly. For the donut holes, simply air fry them for about 3 minutes until golden, then coat them in the same way. Serve these delightful treats immediately for the best warm, fresh-baked experience.
Any leftover air fryer biscuit donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. While they are undoubtedly best enjoyed warm and fresh, you can easily revive their tender, fluffy texture. Simply pop them back into your air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 300°F (150°C) until gently warmed through. This quick reheating method will bring back much of their original charm, making them a delicious treat even on the second day.
Love it? Pin it! Share the Joy!
If this incredibly easy and delicious air fryer biscuit donut recipe has captured your heart (and your taste buds!), don’t let it disappear into the digital abyss! Make sure to save it for future reference and share the joy with your friends and family. Pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest recipe board right now so you can easily find it whenever a donut craving strikes. Sharing is caring, and we know everyone will adore this simple, no-fuss way to make homemade donuts!
Creative Substitutions and Delicious Variations
One of the most exciting aspects of cooking and baking is the freedom to customize recipes to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. When it comes to these air fryer biscuit donuts, don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity and make them truly your own! Here are some fantastic ideas to get you started:
- Beyond Cinnamon Sugar: While cinnamon sugar is a classic for a reason, consider a decadent chocolate glaze made with melted chocolate chips and a touch of milk, or a simple yet elegant vanilla glaze for a different flavor profile.
- Simple Glazed Perfection: For a quick and easy glazed biscuit donut, whisk together powdered sugar with a splash of milk (or water) and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Dip your warm donuts into this mixture for a classic, sweet coating.
- Experiment with Coatings: The possibilities are endless! Try a dusting of plain powdered sugar for a minimalist approach, or mix cocoa powder with powdered sugar for a chocolatey coating. A blend of sugar and finely chopped nuts could also add a delightful crunch.
- Seasonal Flavors: Adapt the spices! In the fall, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to your cinnamon sugar. For a citrusy twist, mix lemon or orange zest into your granulated sugar.
Remember, cooking should be fun and expressive. These suggestions are just starting points; feel free to experiment and discover your new favorite donut variation!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Donuts
We understand you might have a few questions about making these easy air fryer biscuit donuts. Here are some common queries and their helpful answers to ensure your donut-making experience is smooth and successful:
- Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time? While these air fryer biscuit donuts are truly at their peak when served warm and fresh, you can certainly prepare them a little in advance. Store any cooked and cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them briefly in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
- What if I don’t have a donut cutter? No problem at all! You don’t need a specialized donut cutter to make these. A small round cookie cutter (around 1-inch diameter) works perfectly for creating the center holes. In a pinch, even the rim of a shot glass or a clean bottle cap can do the trick!
- Can I use the air fryer tray instead of the basket? Yes, you can definitely use an air fryer tray if your model has one. The key is to ensure the donuts are arranged in a single layer, allowing for optimal air circulation. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as trays can sometimes cook a bit differently than baskets. Keep a close eye on your first batch.
- How do I prevent my donuts from sticking to the air fryer? Always ensure your air fryer basket or tray is lightly greased with a non-aerosol cooking spray (like olive oil or coconut oil) before placing the biscuits. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Can I use different types of refrigerated biscuits? While Pillsbury Grands Biscuits are recommended for their size and texture, you can experiment with other brands or types of jumbo refrigerated biscuits. Just be aware that cooking times might vary slightly.
Top Tips & Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Achieving perfectly golden, fluffy air fryer biscuit donuts is easy when you keep a few key tips in mind. These insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your homemade treats turn out flawlessly every time:
- Choose the Right Spray: Always spray your air fryer basket or tray with an olive oil spray or coconut oil spray that comes in a non-aerosol bottle. Traditional aerosol non-stick sprays (like Pam) contain ingredients that can degrade the non-stick coating of your air fryer over time, making it sticky.
- Avoid Overcrowding: For even cooking and consistent results, it’s crucial not to overcrowd your air fryer basket. Cook the donuts in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each one for the hot air to circulate. Work in batches if necessary.
- Monitor the First Batch: Air fryers can vary significantly in temperature and cooking performance. Always watch your first batch of donuts carefully. This will help you determine the exact cooking time needed for your specific air fryer model, ensuring subsequent batches are cooked to perfection.
- Cooling Rack is Key: Once your donuts are coated and ready, place them on a wire cooling rack immediately. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy and maintaining their delightful crispness.
- Don’t Waste the Centers: Those little biscuit cut-outs aren’t waste—they’re delicious donut holes! Air fry them for about 3 minutes until golden brown, then brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar for a delightful bite-sized treat.
More Irresistible Donut Recipes to Love
If you share my passion for all things donuts, then you’re in the right place! Beyond these fantastic air fryer biscuit donuts, I have a treasure trove of other donut recipes that are sure to delight your palate. As Mardi Gras approaches, consider adding a festive flair to your Fat Tuesday celebrations with my vibrant King Cake Donuts or indulge in the rich, traditional flavors of my Pączki (Polish Donuts). These are perfect for making your festivities even sweeter!
Our readers consistently rave about several other baked donut favorites, including the romantic Chocolate Covered Strawberry Donuts, the bright and tangy Lemon Glazed Donuts, and the surprisingly delightful Baked Banana Donuts. For those seeking unique and exciting flavors, you won’t want to miss my refreshing Cherry Limeade Donuts, the comforting Glazed Pumpkin Donuts, or the classic simplicity of my Powdered Sugar Doughnuts! Each recipe is crafted to bring joy and deliciousness to your home.
Discover all of our incredibly convenient Air Fryer Recipes Here.
In conclusion, these easy air fryer biscuit donuts stand as a testament to how simple and rewarding homemade baking can be. They offer a perfect solution for enjoying fresh, warm donuts without the mess, health concerns, and extensive prep time associated with traditional deep frying. Whether you serve them alongside your morning coffee, as a delightful dessert, or a comforting after-school treat, they are guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of quick, delicious, and perfectly air-fried donuts!
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Print Recipe
Easy Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Equipment
- Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Oven Digital and Programmable, Nonstick (35050), 2.5 Liters, Black
- COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo, 5.8QT
- Biscuit Cutters Set, Stainless Steel Circle, 5 Pieces
Ingredients
- 1 (16.3 ounce) can of Refrigerated Canned Biscuits
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ Tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 5 Tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 360 degrees F (180°C).
- In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Place each biscuit from the can onto a cutting board. Using a small cookie cutter or biscuit cutter (approximately 1 inch in diameter), carefully cut a hole in the center of each biscuit to form your donut shapes.
- Lightly coat the inside of your air fryer basket or tray with an olive oil spray or coconut oil spray. It’s important to refrain from using traditional non-stick sprays (like Pam) as they can damage your air fryer’s coating.
- Begin air frying the donuts. You will likely need to cook these in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer basket. Arrange the donuts in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other, for even cooking.
- Air fry the donuts for approximately 5 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown on both sides.
- Once cooked, immediately remove the hot donuts from the air fryer. Using a pastry brush, coat the outside of each donut generously with melted butter. Then, promptly roll each buttered donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully covered.
- To air fry the donut holes, follow the same cooking process, but air fry them for a shorter duration, typically about 3 minutes, until golden. Coat them with butter and cinnamon sugar as well.
- Serve these delicious air fryer biscuit donuts immediately while they are still warm for the best taste and texture.