Air Fryer Donut Recipe With Biscuits

So you’re craving something warm, sweet, and totally decadent, but the idea of pulling out a deep fryer and dealing with hot oil makes you want to just, like, order pizza instead? Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt. But what if I told you there’s a shortcut to donut nirvana that involves your trusty air fryer and those humble canned biscuits lurking in your fridge? Mind. Blown. Get ready, because we’re about to make some magic happen, no chef hat required.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Okay, let’s be real. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a life hack. First off, it’s incredibly fast. We’re talking fresh, warm donuts in under 10 minutes. Yeah, you heard that right. It’s also **idiot-proof**, and trust me, if I can’t mess it up, you definitely won’t. No yeast, no proofing, no sticky dough hands for hours. Plus, minimal cleanup compared to traditional frying, which, **IMO**, is a win in itself. It’s basically instant gratification in donut form. You’re welcome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather ’round, my lazy-gourmet friends! Here’s your super simple shopping list:

• **1 can refrigerated biscuits** (the flaky kind work best, obvi, but any will do if you’re in a pinch)
• **2 tablespoons unsalted butter**, melted (because everything is better with butter)
• **1/2 cup granulated sugar** (for that classic donut coating)
• **1 teaspoon ground cinnamon** (the sugar’s best friend)
• **Optional:** powdered sugar for a simple glaze, sprinkles for fun, or chocolate for pure indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Pop open those biscuits** like you’re unearthing a culinary treasure. Lay them out on a clean surface.
2. **Make the holes.** Grab a small round cookie cutter, a bottle cap, or even a shot glass (no judgment here, we’re making donuts!). Cut a hole in the center of each biscuit. Don’t toss those donut holes – they cook up into adorable mini-donuts!
3. **Prepare your coating.** In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. In another small bowl, melt your butter.
4. **Time to air fry!** Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place a few biscuit donuts (and maybe some holes!) in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. **Do not overcrowd the basket.**
5. **Cook ’em up.** Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 4-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown on both sides. Cook the donut holes for about 2-3 minutes.
6. **Coat ’em good.** Immediately after they come out of the air fryer, while still warm, dunk each donut (and hole!) into the melted butter, letting any excess drip off. Then, roll it generously in your cinnamon sugar mixture.
7. **Serve and devour.** Seriously, eat these bad boys warm. They’re absolutely heavenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We’ve all been there, making rookie errors. Let’s make sure you don’t fall into these common donut traps:

• **Overcrowding the basket:** Thinking you can squeeze all ten biscuits in at once? Rookie mistake! They need air circulation to cook evenly and get that lovely golden crisp. Cook in batches, friend.
• **Skipping the butter bath:** “Do I really need the butter?” Yes. Yes, you do. It’s not just for flavor; it helps the cinnamon sugar stick and gives the donut that satisfying richness.
• **Forgetting the holes:** Don’t discard those precious donut holes! They cook even faster and are perfect little bite-sized treats. It’s like a two-for-one deal.
• **Not eating them immediately:** While they’re still delicious later, air-fried donuts are at their absolute peak right after being made. **Warm and fresh is key!**

Alternatives & Substitutions

Feeling a little adventurous? Here are some ways to switch things up:

• **Glaze it up:** Instead of cinnamon sugar, whisk together powdered sugar with a tiny bit of milk or water and a splash of vanilla extract for a simple glaze. Dip the warm donuts in for a classic look. A dash of lemon juice in there? Divine!
• **Chocolate craze:** Melt some chocolate chips and dip your warm donuts for an instant chocolate fix. A sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates it to gourmet levels.
• **Maple magic:** Use maple syrup instead of butter for dipping, then coat in cinnamon sugar. Or better yet, make a maple glaze (powdered sugar + maple syrup + a touch of milk).
• **Sprinkle party:** Seriously, who doesn’t love sprinkles? Dip in glaze, then shower with your favorite colorful tiny bits. Instant mood booster!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Got questions? I’ve got (casual) answers!

• **Can I use any brand of biscuits?** Yep, mostly. Flaky layers are generally preferred for a better donut texture, but any refrigerated biscuit will get the job done. Just make sure they’re not the “grands” size unless you want truly gargantuan donuts.
• **My donuts came out a bit dry. What gives?** Did you overcook them? Air fryers are powerful! Keep an eye on them, especially on your first batch. Also, ensure you dipped them generously in butter; that helps keep them moist and delicious.
• **Can I make these ahead of time?** You *can*, but they’re seriously best fresh. The texture changes as they cool. If you must, a quick reheat in the air fryer for a minute or two can revive them a bit.
• **What if I don’t have a cookie cutter for the holes?** A clean bottle cap, a small round piping tip, or even just carefully pinching and tearing a hole will work. Embrace the rustic look!
• **Can I add other spices to the sugar coating?** Absolutely! A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom would be fantastic. Get creative!
• **Are these healthier than fried donuts?** Well, they’re certainly not deep-fried in oil, so there’s that. Less oil, less mess, probably fewer calories. But let’s not pretend it’s a health food, okay? It’s a treat!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, folks! Your new go-to recipe for when a donut craving strikes but your motivation is, shall we say, “minimal.” This air fryer biscuit donut recipe is quick, easy, and dangerously delicious. It’s perfect for a weekend treat, a fun breakfast, or just because you deserve something sweet right now. So go forth, my friend, and impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it!