You know those mornings when you need something sweet and special but don’t have time for a baking project? That’s where these air fryer biscuit donuts come in—my absolute go-to for a quick breakfast treat or last-minute brunch magic. I discovered this trick one hectic Saturday when my niece begged for donuts, and all I had was a can of biscuits in the fridge. Ten minutes later, we were dusting golden, crispy-edged donuts with cinnamon sugar, giggling as we nibbled the warm, fluffy centers. The best part? Just three simple ingredients (plus whatever toppings you love) and no messy deep-frying. Now it’s our little weekend tradition—almost too easy to be real, but trust me, they disappear faster than you can say “second batch!”
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
There’s a reason these donuts have become my secret weapon—here’s why you’ll get hooked too:
- No oily mess: Skip the deep-fryer splatter (and the lingering smell). Your air fryer gives that golden crunch without the hassle.
- Kid-approved magic: Little hands love cutting the centers and dunking the warm donuts in toppings—it’s edible playtime!
- Swap toppings like socks: Torn between cinnamon sugar and glaze? Do both! Add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of peanut butter.
- Brunch hero: Whip up a batch in minutes when surprise guests arrive. Add to your meal planning routine for sweet mornings made easy.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Gather these simple staples – you probably have most in your pantry already! I always use the classic 8-count canned biscuits (Grands! flaky layers work great), but any brand will do in a pinch. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count, not the tiny ones)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (pack it lightly – no need to crush the crystals!)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (the good stuff – I prefer Saigon cinnamon for extra warmth)
For the optional glaze that makes them bakery-worthy:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted if you’re fancy)
- 1 tablespoon milk (whole milk is dreamy, but almond milk works for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (the real kind – it makes all the difference)
See? Told you it was simple! Now let’s turn these basics into something magical.
How to Make Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Ready to turn those humble canned biscuits into golden, fluffy donuts? Here’s my foolproof method—I’ve made these so many times I could do it in my sleep (and some groggy Saturday mornings, I practically have). The key is working quickly so everything stays chilled, and resisting the urge to peek constantly while they cook—trust the process!
Step 1: Prep the Biscuits
Pop open that can (that little “thwop” sound never gets old). Separate the biscuits on a clean surface. No fancy cutter? Use a shot glass or small bottle cap to punch out centers—save those little circles to make donut holes! Pro tip: dip your cutter in flour first to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F—just 2 minutes does the trick. Arrange donuts in a single layer with breathing room (I do 4 at a time in my 6-quart model). Cook for 3 minutes, flip with tongs, then go 2-3 more minutes until they’re gorgeously golden. Watch closely after the flip—some air fryers run hot!
Step 3: Add Toppings
While still warm, toss donuts in your cinnamon-sugar mix (shake them in a paper bag for even coating) or dip in glaze. For extra magic, do both—dip in glaze first, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before it sets. The warmth helps toppings cling perfectly.
Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
After making these donuts more times than I can count (and eating way too many “test batches”), here are my foolproof secrets for donut perfection every time:
- Spritz that basket! A quick spray of oil prevents sticking—just avoid aerosol sprays that can damage your air fryer. I use a little mister with avocado oil.
- Timing is everything: Like cookies, they keep cooking after you pull them out. Take them out when they’re just golden—they’ll firm up as they cool. Overdo it and they turn into hockey pucks!
- Parchment is your pal: Cut a round of parchment with slits for airflow if your donuts keep sticking. Bonus? Zero cleanup afterwards.
- Brighten up: Add lemon or orange zest to your glaze for a sunny twist. My kids call these our “sunshine donuts” when I make them this way.
Variations to Try
Never get bored with these donuts—half the fun is playing with flavors! Here are my favorite twists:
- Chocolate lovers’ dream: Melt some chocolate chips with a splash of cream for a rich glaze, or just dust with cocoa powder mixed into the sugar.
- Fall favorite: Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in your sugar mix—especially divine with a drizzle of caramel.
- Savory surprise: Skip the sugar and brush warm donuts with garlic butter, then sprinkle with parmesan. Perfect with soup!
- Gluten-free? Many meal delivery services offer gluten-free biscuit dough now—just adjust cooking time since they often brown faster.
Psst… my nephew likes crushing cereal (Fruity Pebbles!) over glaze for crunch. No rules here!
How to Store and Reheat
These donuts are best devoured fresh (no judgement if they disappear in one sitting!), but if you’ve got leftovers, here’s how to keep them happy:
- Room temp magic: Pop cooled donuts in an airtight container with parchment between layers. They’ll stay tender for up to 2 days—though the glaze might dull. Just give them a quick refresh before serving!
- Crisp revival: My air fryer trick? Reheat at 300°F for just 60-90 seconds. They’ll come out warm and crispy like they’re fresh—no sad, soggy donuts here!
- Freeze for later: Brilliant meal planning hack: freeze the uncooked biscuit rounds on a sheet pan, then transfer to a bag. When donut cravings strike, air fry straight from frozen—just add 1 extra minute to the cook time.
Pro tip: Freeze glazed donuts uncovered first so the topping sets, then wrap. Otherwise you’ll have one sticky mess—learned that the hard way!
Common Questions About Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
I get asked about these donuts all the time—here are the top questions from my kitchen to yours:
- Can I use homemade dough? Absolutely! My great-grandma’s buttermilk biscuit dough works beautifully—just roll it slightly thinner than canned biscuits and add a minute to the cook time. The key is keeping the dough cold until it hits the hot air fryer.
- Why are my donuts dry? Oh honey, you’ve overcooked them! Air fryers vary, so start checking a minute early. They should be springy when pressed—think “golden tan” not “deep bronze.” Left them in too long? A quick glaze dip can help rescue them.
- Gluten-free options? Yes! Many stores now carry gluten-free biscuit dough (look in the frozen section too). Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 flour works for homemade dough. Pro tip for gluten-free meal delivery fans: some services offer ready-made GF dough that’s perfect for this recipe!
Still have questions? Slide into my DMs—I’ve probably burned enough batches to troubleshoot any issue!
Nutrition Information
Keep in mind these are estimates—your exact nutrition will vary based on ingredients. Per donut (with glaze): about 150 calories and 12g sugar. For lighter options, try using sugar substitutes or check out some great weight loss programs that offer balanced treat ideas. Remember, everything’s better in moderation—especially when it’s this delicious!
PrintAir Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Quick and easy donuts made with canned biscuits in the air fryer, perfect for a fast breakfast or snack.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 6 min
- Total Time: 11 min
- Yield: 8 donuts 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Separate biscuits and use a small cutter to remove centers, creating donut shapes.
- Place donuts in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
- Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for glaze.
- Dip warm donuts in cinnamon sugar or glaze. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg