Let me tell you, the scent of warm, golden donuts crisping up in the air fryer is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I made these crispy air fryer donuts made with biscuit dough, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma’s kitchen was always filled with the smell of freshly fried treats, but honestly, these donuts bring that nostalgic comfort with way less mess and fuss.
I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy weekend while craving something sweet but not wanting to fire up the oven or oil a deep fryer. To say my family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack would be an understatement (and I can’t really blame them). They’re dangerously easy and come out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—pure, nostalgic comfort with a modern twist. You know what? These donuts are perfect for potlucks, a sweet treat for your kids’ lunchboxes, or just brightening up your Pinterest cookie board with something a little different.
After testing this recipe multiple times (in the name of research, of course), it’s become a staple for family gatherings and gifting. Honestly, it feels like a warm hug in donut form, and you’re going to want to bookmark this one.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Donuts Recipe
As someone who’s spent years experimenting with quick, delightful treats, I can confidently say this recipe stands out for many reasons. Here’s why you’ll fall for these crispy air fryer donuts made with biscuit dough:
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen pantry.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, casual get-togethers, or a cozy weekend snack.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike—trust me, they disappear fast!
- Unbelievably Delicious: The combo of crispy edges and pillowy biscuit dough inside is next-level comfort food.
What sets this recipe apart is the clever use of biscuit dough, which means no yeast waiting around or complicated frying. The air fryer crisps them perfectly while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Plus, you can customize your toppings from cinnamon sugar to glaze or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This isn’t just another donut recipe—it’s the best shortcut to that bakery-style satisfaction right at home.
Honestly, these donuts make you close your eyes after the first bite, savoring that balance of crunch and softness. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this recipe delivers without the usual stress.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, so you probably don’t have to run to the store.
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: 1 can (16 ounces or about 450 grams) of your favorite flaky biscuit dough (I recommend Pillsbury flaky layers for best texture)
- Vegetable Oil or Cooking Spray: For air fryer basket greasing (keeps donuts crispy without sticking)
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup (100 grams) for coating
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 tablespoon (adds that classic cinnamon-sugar magic)
- Butter: 3 tablespoons (about 45 grams), melted, for coating the donuts before rolling in cinnamon sugar
- Optional Glaze Ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (if you want to switch up the coating)
Ingredient Tips: Look for biscuit dough with flaky, buttery layers for that light texture. If you want a gluten-free option, some stores carry gluten-free biscuit dough, or you could try a homemade gluten-free version. For dairy-free, swap butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
Equipment Needed
- Air Fryer: A standard 5 to 6-quart air fryer works great. I’ve used both basket and oven-style air fryers with success.
- Mixing Bowls: For mixing cinnamon sugar and optional glaze.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Pastry Brush: To brush melted butter on donuts before coating.
- Cooling Rack: To let donuts crisp up and cool slightly after cooking.
If you don’t have a pastry brush, no worries—a spoon or even your fingers work fine for butter application. For budget-friendly air fryer options, many affordable models deliver great crisping results without breaking the bank. Just make sure your air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded; this helps keep donuts crispy all around.
Preparation Method
- Prep Your Dough: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough (16 ounces or 450 grams). Gently separate the dough into individual biscuits. Using a small round cutter (about 1 inch or 2.5 cm), cut out the centers to form donut shapes. Save the centers for mini donut holes or a quick snack. (Time estimate: 5 minutes)
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. This step helps the donuts cook evenly and get that perfect crispy crust.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While the air fryer heats, mix ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Air Fry the Donuts: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the donut shapes in a single layer in the basket with some space between them. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. (Keep an eye on them—the timing may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.)
- Butter and Coat: Immediately after air frying, brush the donuts with melted butter, then toss them gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Repeat for all donuts.
Pro Tips: Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed. The donuts should feel firm but still soft when pressed lightly. If you want a glaze instead of cinnamon sugar, wait for the donuts to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here’s the scoop from my kitchen trials to help you nail these crispy air fryer donuts every time. First, don’t skip the preheating step—it really helps get that crispy exterior without drying out the biscuit dough inside. When cutting out the donut holes, keep your cutter slightly smaller than the biscuit size so the donuts don’t break apart.
One mistake I made early on was stacking donuts in the air fryer basket to save time. Let me tell you, that leads to uneven cooking and soggy spots (lesson learned). Cook in single layers for best results. Also, brushing on melted butter right after frying locks in flavor and helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly. If you skip this, the sugar won’t cling as well, and you’ll miss out on that signature sweet crust.
Timing is everything: 8-9 minutes total air frying usually does the trick, but every air fryer is a bit different. Set a timer, but keep an eye on the first batch to adjust. Multitasking tip? While the first batch cooks, prep your cinnamon sugar or glaze so you’re ready to roll donuts in as soon as they come out.
Variations & Adaptations
- Glazed Donuts: Instead of cinnamon sugar, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a simple glaze. Drizzle over warm donuts for a classic look and flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip warm donuts halfway into melted chocolate chips or chocolate spread, then sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles.
- Fruit-Filled: Before cooking, gently press a spoonful of jam or Nutella onto the biscuit dough, then cover with another piece of dough to seal. Air fry carefully to avoid leaks.
- Allergen-Friendly: Use dairy-free biscuit dough and swap butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free treat. For gluten-free, experiment with gluten-free biscuit dough brands, but watch cooking times.
I once tried adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon sugar mix and wow—it was a cozy fall twist that disappeared fast at our house.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These crispy air fryer donuts are best served warm, straight from the air fryer, but let’s face it, they still taste pretty great at room temperature. For serving, arrange on a pretty plate or basket lined with parchment paper. Pair them with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even a cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort combo.
To store, let donuts cool completely, then place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes to refresh that crispy exterior.
Flavors actually develop and mellow a bit after a day, so if you don’t eat them all immediately, the next day they’re still quite tasty—though I’d be surprised if any last that long!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Each donut (based on 1 can biscuit dough yielding about 8 donuts) is estimated to have around 180-220 calories, with 7-10 grams of fat, 25 grams of carbs, and about 3 grams of protein. Using biscuit dough means a richer, buttery flavor but also more calories compared to yeast-based donuts.
Biscuit dough brings in some calcium and protein from the dairy content, while cinnamon adds a touch of antioxidants. This recipe isn’t low-calorie but making them in an air fryer means less oil than traditional frying. For a lighter twist, consider smaller donuts or skipping the butter coating and opting for a light glaze.
Allergy note: Contains gluten and dairy unless substituted. Always check ingredient labels if you have sensitivities.
Conclusion
There you have it—crispy air fryer donuts made with biscuit dough that are fast, fuss-free, and downright delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a quick treat, this recipe hits all the right notes. I love how simple ingredients transform into something special with minimal effort.
Feel free to customize the toppings or fillings to suit your tastes—there’s room for creativity here. I’d love to hear your spin on this recipe, so don’t hesitate to share your versions or ask questions in the comments below. Now go ahead, treat yourself to these crisp, tender donuts—you deserve it!
FAQs about Crispy Air Fryer Donuts Made with Biscuit Dough
Can I use homemade biscuit dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade biscuit dough works wonderfully and lets you control ingredients. Just make sure the dough is sturdy enough to hold shape when air frying.
How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil before placing the donuts. Also, avoid overcrowding so air circulates properly and donuts crisp evenly.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
You can prep and cut the dough ahead and store covered in the fridge for a few hours. Cook fresh for best texture, but leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer.
What’s the best way to reheat these donuts?
Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes to refresh crispiness without drying them out.
Are these donuts suitable for a vegan diet?
Not as written, since biscuit dough and butter contain dairy. However, you can try vegan biscuit dough and substitute butter with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.
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Crispy Air Fryer Donuts Recipe
- Total Time: 18-19 minutes
- Yield: 8 donuts 1x
Description
These crispy air fryer donuts made with biscuit dough are quick, easy, and deliver a perfect balance of a crispy exterior and tender, fluffy inside. Ideal for a nostalgic treat with less mess and fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 can (16 ounces or about 450 grams) refrigerated biscuit dough (recommend Pillsbury flaky layers)
- Vegetable oil or cooking spray for air fryer basket greasing
- ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar for coating
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons (about 45 grams) butter, melted, for coating
- Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and gently separate into individual biscuits. Using a small round cutter (about 1 inch), cut out the centers to form donut shapes. Save the centers for mini donut holes or a snack.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Mix ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange donut shapes in a single layer with space between them.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Immediately brush donuts with melted butter, then toss in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Repeat for all donuts.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Preheat the air fryer for best results. Brush melted butter immediately after frying to help cinnamon sugar stick. For glaze, wait for donuts to cool slightly before drizzling. Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in air fryer at 320°F for 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: air fryer donuts, biscuit dough donuts, crispy donuts, quick donuts, easy dessert, cinnamon sugar donuts
