Air Fryer Donuts Quick Dessert Recipe

Give it up, my sweet friend! You cannot resist the temptation of this recipe. I’m talking about the magic of Air Fryer Donuts Quick Dessert. They are the answer to every single one of your “I need something sweet NOW” emergencies. If you’re looking for a savory main course that’s just as quick, you have to try this juicy Mediterranean stuffed chicken.

We’re talking hot, fluffy, sugar-dusted pillows of joy. And they are ready in under 15 minutes. Yes, you read that right. Your breakfast, brunch, or midnight snack game is about to be changed forever. Come to Mama!

Forget the hassle of deep frying. Your air fryer is about to become your new best friend. It gives us that perfect golden exterior without the vat of oil. Let’s make some magic happen together.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Category: Dessert / Breakfast
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Servings: 8 donuts

Do You Love This Recipe Too?

I am completely obsessed. My love for these started on a lazy Sunday morning. I had a serious donut craving but zero desire to put on real pants and leave the house.

I stared at a can of biscuit dough in my fridge like it held the secrets of the universe. Spoiler alert: it kind of does! Five minutes later, they were sizzling in the air fryer.

The smell alone was heavenly. When I took that first bite? Pure bliss. It was a total “why have I been buying donuts?!” moment. I’ve made them almost every weekend since.

My Shopping List for This Recipe

This is the beautiful part. You likely have 90% of this already. It’s the ultimate pantry raid recipe. Here’s what I always grab.

Let’s Get Your Ingredients Ready

Gather these simple things. That’s it! The simplicity is what makes this so brilliant.

• 1 (16.3 oz) can of refrigerated flaky biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Grands!)
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Non-stick cooking spray

Bringing This Recipe to Life (Step-by-Step)

Are you ready? This is where the fun begins. Put on some happy music and let’s do this! This appliance is so versatile—it’s perfect for a quick and delicious dinner on busy nights, too.

1. First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is key for that instant cook!
2. Open that can of biscuits. You know the sound – it’s the sound of happiness.
3. Separate the biscuits and lay them on a cutting board. Use a small bottle cap or a 1-inch cutter to punch holes in the centers. Save those little middles! They are your donut holes.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Place 3-4 donuts (and a few holes) in the basket. Do not crowd them! They need space to puff up and get gorgeous.
5. Air fry for 4-5 minutes. Then, carefully flip them. They should be starting to turn a beautiful golden brown.
6. Air fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are deeply golden and puffed. Keep a close eye here – all air fryers run a little different.
7. While they cook, mix your sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Have your melted butter ready in another bowl.
8. The moment the donuts come out, brush them all over with the melted butter. Then, immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar. Coat every single nook and cranny. Do this while they are hot – the sugar will stick perfectly.
9. Repeat with the remaining dough. Then, try not to eat them all in one go. I believe in you!

Fun Variations to Try Next Time

Once you master the classic, the world is your donut shop! Here are my favorite twists.

Glazed Heaven: Skip the cinnamon sugar. Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Dunk your warm donuts right in.

Chocolate Dream: After buttering, roll them in plain sugar. Then, drizzle with melted chocolate or a simple chocolate glaze. Sprinkles are mandatory for maximum joy.

Apple Pie Spice: Swap the cinnamon for apple pie spice in your sugar mix. It tastes like fall in the best way possible.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat

These are best eaten fresh, but I get it – sometimes you have leftovers (a miracle!).

Store any cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 320°F for 1-2 minutes to wake them right up.

To freeze, let them cool completely after cooking but before adding toppings. Freeze on a parchment-lined sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 320°F for 3-4 minutes, then coat with your toppings.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g

A Quick Q&A on This Recipe

Can I use homemade dough?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite simple biscuit or roll dough, go for it. The canned dough is just our super-quick, weeknight hero. It’s all about that instant gratification.

My air fryer is tiny. Can I still make these?

Yes! Just work in smaller batches. Maybe do two donuts at a time. It might take a few more minutes, but the result is 100% worth it. No donut left behind!

Why do I have to brush them with butter?

This step is non-negotiable, my friend! The butter acts like a delicious glue. It helps the cinnamon sugar create that perfect, crackly, sweet crust. It also adds an incredible rich flavor. Don’t skip it!

And there you have it! Your new secret weapon for instant happiness. I’m telling you, these little rings of joy never fail to make everyone smile. They’re the perfect sweet treat to serve before a savory appetizer like these crispy air fryer shrimp scampi bites.

They are perfect for a quick treat, a fun breakfast with kids, or impressing your friends with your “pastry chef” skills. The best part is how incredibly easy they are. You have no excuses now!

I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know what you think! Did you go classic cinnamon sugar or try a fun variation? Tell me everything!