Get ready to indulge in a treat that’s easy and fun! These air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts are a hit for breakfast or dessert. With just a can of biscuit dough and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up soft, warm, and sweet donuts in no time. In this post, I’ll share my easy recipe, along with tips to make your donuts perfect every time. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, making it perfect for a last-minute treat!
- Air Fryer Magic: Enjoy all the deliciousness of donuts without the guilt, thanks to the air fryer method!
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or dips, like chocolate or caramel, to personalize your donuts.
- Fun for All: Making these donuts is a fun activity for kids and adults alike—perfect for family bonding!
Ingredients
Required Ingredients
– 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
To make air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts, you need just a few simple ingredients. First, grab a can of refrigerated biscuit dough. This is the base of your donuts. Next, you’ll need granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. These two will bring the sweet and spicy flavor. Then, unsalted butter adds richness and helps the sugar stick. If you want a little extra sweetness, powdered sugar is perfect for dusting at the end.
Using these ingredients allows you to create warm, fluffy donuts with a crunchy, sweet coating. The combination of cinnamon and sugar gives you a classic taste that everyone loves. Plus, these ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store.
Get ready to whip up these tasty treats!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Air Fryer
First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is important. It helps the donuts cook evenly.
Preparing the Donuts
Next, open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Place them on a clean surface. Use a small round cookie cutter or a bottle cap to punch holes in the center. This creates your donut shapes. Don’t forget to keep the small pieces. Those are your donut holes!
Coating the Donuts
Now, let’s make the cinnamon sugar mix. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until well mixed. Set this aside. Dip each donut and donut hole in 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. Make sure they are fully coated. After that, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix. This gives them a tasty crust.
Air Frying the Donuts
Carefully arrange the coated donuts in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer. They should not touch each other. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to fry them in batches. Air fry the donuts for 5-7 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should turn golden brown when done.
Serving the Donuts
Once the donuts are done, take them out of the air fryer. Let them cool on a wire rack. If you want, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a nice touch!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfect Donut Texture
To get the best donuts, watch for even browning while they fry. This means checking them halfway through cooking. Flip them over to ensure they brown nicely. Also, use a single layer in the air fryer. If you stack them, they won’t cook evenly. This simple trick helps keep your donuts light and fluffy.
Enhancing Flavor
You can make your donuts even tastier by adding flavors. A splash of vanilla extract can bring out sweetness. If you like spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar. These little changes can make a big difference in flavor. Get creative and find what you like best!
Avoiding Common Mistakes
When you open the biscuit dough, be careful when separating the biscuits. If you pull too hard, they might tear. Take your time and gently separate each biscuit. This will help keep their shape during frying. Perfectly shaped donuts will look and taste better.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the expiration date on your biscuit dough for the best flavor and texture in your donuts.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a unique twist on traditional donuts.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning of each donut.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste, serve the donuts warm right after cooking; they are at their peak deliciousness fresh out of the air fryer!
Variations
Alternate Coatings
You can switch up the flavor of your donuts with fun toppings. Try a rich chocolate glaze or a sweet maple syrup. These add a unique twist to the classic cinnamon sugar. You can also sprinkle on nuts or colorful sprinkles. This makes your donuts look festive and fun!
Different Dough Options
If you want to experiment, use different dough. You can make homemade biscuit dough for a fresh taste. Cake batter is another great option. Each choice gives you a new texture and flavor. This lets you find your perfect donut style.
Seasonal Variations
Seasonal flavors can make your donuts even more special. In the fall, add pumpkin spice to the dough. This gives a warm, cozy taste that feels like autumn. You can also try adding peppermint for winter-themed donuts. This way, you can enjoy these treats all year long!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Donuts
To store leftover donuts, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. If you want the best taste, let them cool first. When you are ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer. Set it to 300°F (150°C) for about two minutes. This brings back their warmth and crispness.
Freezing Donuts
You can freeze donuts before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, shape your donuts and place them on a baking sheet. Make sure they do not touch. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months. To freeze after cooking, let the donuts cool completely. Then, follow the same process. Just remember to reheat them in the air fryer when you are ready to enjoy.
Duration and Signs of Spoilage
For the best taste, eat the donuts within three days. If they sit longer, they may dry out. Signs of spoilage include a hard texture or a strange smell. If you see any mold, throw them away. Always check for freshness before eating. Enjoy your donuts while they are still delicious!
FAQs
Can I use other types of dough?
Yes, you can use other types of dough. Here are some great options:
– Homemade biscuit dough for a fresh taste.
– Cake batter for a softer, sweeter donut.
– Puff pastry for a flaky texture.
Experiment with what you have on hand!
How do I know when the donuts are done?
To check if the donuts are done, look for these signs:
– The donuts should be golden brown.
– A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
– They should feel firm to the touch.
If they need more time, air fry for an extra minute.
Can these donuts be made in advance?
Yes, you can make these donuts in advance. Here’s how:
– Prepare the donuts and fry them.
– Let them cool completely.
– Store them in an airtight container for up to two days.
You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.
What can I serve with these donuts?
These donuts pair well with various drinks and sides:
– Coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy feel.
– Milk or almond milk for a classic touch.
– Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples.
Add a small bowl of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping!
You can make delicious air fryer donuts with just a few simple steps. We covered the key ingredients, like refrigerated biscuit dough and cinnamon sugar, and gave you clear instructions for making them perfectly. I shared tips to enhance flavors and prevent mistakes. You can also try fun variations and learn how to store leftovers. Enjoy creating these tasty treats with ease and impress friends and family with your skills. Happy fryin