Effortless Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts: A Speedy Recipe for Homemade Glazed Perfection
Imagine warm, fluffy doughnuts, perfectly golden and melt-in-your-mouth soft, ready in just minutes. With this incredible, quick-fix recipe for Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts (and delightful doughnut holes!), you can transform humble canned biscuit dough into a top-rated breakfast favorite, complete with a decadent DIY chocolate glaze or a classic cinnamon-sugar coating. Forget the mess and fuss of deep-frying; your air fryer is about to become your secret weapon for creating bakery-quality treats right in your own kitchen.
Got a mere 20 minutes? That’s all it takes to become the most popular person in your household! You’ll be dishing out batch after batch of these delightful glazed or cinnamon-sugar-coated doughnuts and their adorable smaller counterparts. This recipe brilliantly sidesteps the need for a pot of boiling oil or a hot oven, instead relying on the magic of an air fryer to deliver consistently perfect doughnuts every single time. Get ready for Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts to claim their title as the undisputed breakfast and brunch MVP. Read on to discover all my essential tips, techniques, and the full recipe to achieve doughnut perfection with minimal effort.
Why Air Fry Your Doughnuts? The Ultimate Convenience and Health Benefits
The air fryer has truly revolutionized quick and easy cooking, and homemade doughnuts are undoubtedly among its most impressive achievements. Opting for the air fryer over traditional deep-frying offers a multitude of benefits that make this recipe a true game-changer in your kitchen. First and foremost, it drastically reduces the amount of oil needed, making for a significantly lighter and less greasy doughnut without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or that satisfyingly indulgent texture. You get the best of both worlds: that appealingly crisp exterior and a wonderfully tender, fluffy interior characteristic of a freshly made doughnut, all with substantially less fat.
Beyond the health aspect, the air fryer eliminates the common inconveniences associated with deep-frying. Say goodbye to messy oil splatters, the tricky art of maintaining consistent oil temperatures, and the persistent smell of fried food that can linger in your home for hours. Furthermore, cleanup becomes an absolute breeze, saving you precious time and effort. The air fryer also cooks incredibly fast and efficiently. Its powerful circulating hot air ensures remarkably even cooking and browning, guaranteeing that your doughnuts are perfectly done in just minutes. This rapid cooking time means you can whip up a fresh batch for an impromptu brunch, a last-minute treat for guests, or simply to satisfy a sudden sweet craving without a lengthy wait. It’s truly the ideal appliance for transforming simple canned biscuits into a gourmet-like breakfast experience with unparalleled ease and superior results.
Crafting Doughnuts from Canned Biscuits: A Simple Approach to Perfect Shapes
The foundation of these incredible doughnuts lies in a can of store-bought refrigerated biscuits. A standard can typically contains eight biscuit rounds, which perfectly translate into eight individual doughnuts, each ready to be transformed. The key to giving them that classic doughnut shape is to create the iconic hole in the middle. I find that a 1-inch circular cookie cutter works best for this purpose, providing just the right size opening that is proportionate to the biscuit. If you don’t happen to have a cookie cutter on hand, don’t fret! You can easily improvise by using a small bottle cap, the wide end of a piping tip, or even a shot glass to cut out the centers. Simply press it gently into the middle of each biscuit, twisting slightly to ensure a clean and neat cut.
Once your biscuit rounds are shaped, the air fryer takes over, handling all the hard work to ensure a perfectly cooked result every single time. For optimal performance and to prevent sticking, generously spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking oil before you even think about placing the biscuit dough inside. Additionally, it’s crucial to lightly coat the tops of the doughnuts themselves with cooking spray. This two-pronged approach not only keeps the dough from adhering to the basket but also plays a vital role in achieving that desirable crispy, beautifully golden-brown exterior that truly elevates these air-fried treats from good to absolutely irresistible. The light oil coating helps the biscuit dough “fry” in the air, mimicking the texture of traditional doughnuts.
And here’s a little secret from me: the doughnut holes, often considered a mere byproduct, are actually my absolute favorite part! Seriously, do not let that spare dough go to waste. Those delightful little rounds can be air-fried right alongside your main doughnuts, often in the same batch if space allows, or in a quick second batch. Once cooked, toss them in a simple cinnamon-sugar mixture for an instant, crave-worthy snack. They make the perfect bite-sized companion to your larger, chocolate-glazed doughnuts, offering a delightful contrast in flavor and texture that everyone, from kids to adults, will adore. They’re excellent for sharing, or for indulging in a quick sweet bite all by yourself!
Selecting the Best Canned Biscuits for Your Doughnuts
The true genius of this recipe truly lies in its incredible simplicity and accessibility, starting with those humble cans of buttery, refrigerated biscuits readily available at any grocery store. These unassuming dough rounds are absolutely prime for transforming into amazing homemade doughnuts because of their fantastic leavening properties and consistently soft texture. As they cook in the air fryer, they undergo a magical transformation, rising beautifully to create a light and airy crumb while simultaneously achieving that coveted perfectly golden exterior that signals a delicious, well-cooked doughnut.
While virtually any brand or variety of canned biscuit will work wonderfully for this recipe, I personally gravitate towards the extra-flaky or rich buttermilk varieties. These specific types tend to yield an even more tender and profoundly flavorful doughnut, adding an extra layer of deliciousness and a more authentic, bakery-like experience to your homemade treats. The flaky layers become incredibly soft, while buttermilk adds a subtle tang that complements sweet glazes beautifully. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your personal favorite brands or try a new one; the beauty is in the versatility and consistent results this method provides.
Mastering the Art of a Homemade Chocolate Glaze and Other Toppings
A truly sensational homemade doughnut isn’t quite complete without the perfect topping, and our DIY chocolate glaze is both incredibly simple to prepare and utterly delicious. To prepare this decadent glaze, begin by sifting together confectioners’ sugar (also known as powdered sugar) and unsweetened cocoa powder in a small bowl. Sifting is a surprisingly important step here, as it ensures that your glaze will be wonderfully smooth and completely lump-free, providing that professional, glossy finish. Once the dry ingredients are combined, gradually whisk in whole milk until the mixture reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. The ideal consistency should easily coat the back of a spoon and drip off slowly without being too watery or too stiff. Don’t hesitate to add a tiny bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time, if you find the glaze initially too thick, or a bit more powdered sugar if it’s too thin. The full, precise measurements are detailed in the recipe card below!
A critical tip for glazing success, regardless of your chosen topping, is to ensure your air-fried doughnuts are completely cool before you even think about dipping them. Dipping warm doughnuts into glaze will cause the glaze to melt instantly and slide right off, resulting in a soggy, sticky mess rather than a perfectly set, beautiful coating. Once dipped, and if you plan on adding any festive toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or cocoa nibs, make sure to sprinkle them on immediately while the glaze is still wet and pliable. This ensures that your decorative elements adhere beautifully before the glaze begins to set. Finally, allow the glazed doughnuts to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes until the glaze has fully firmed up, becoming delightfully set and ready for serving. This small waiting period makes a big difference in presentation and enjoyment.
Beyond the classic chocolate glaze, the possibilities for customization are endless! As mentioned, a simple toss in melted butter followed by a generous coating of cinnamon sugar is always a crowd-pleaser, especially for the doughnut holes. For a simpler approach, a dusting of powdered sugar is elegant and quick. You could also create a basic vanilla glaze using confectioners’ sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract. For those who love a nutty flavor, dipping in melted butter and then rolling in finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a fantastic crunch. Get creative and customize your batch to suit everyone’s preferences!
Air Fryer vs. Oven: Can You Bake Doughnuts Instead?
Absolutely! If you don’t yet own an air fryer, or if you simply prefer to use your conventional oven, you certainly don’t have to miss out on all the delicious homemade doughnut fun. Baking is a perfectly viable alternative, offering a slightly different but equally delightful texture. Instead of pre-heating your air fryer, you’ll simply pre-heat your oven to a steady 375°F (190°C). After shaping your doughnuts and doughnut holes using the method described earlier, arrange them neatly on a lightly greased baking sheet, ensuring there’s a little space between each one for even baking. To help them achieve a lovely golden finish and prevent sticking, spray them generously with cooking spray or brush them with a bit of melted butter before baking.
Bake the doughnuts for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are thoroughly cooked through. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. While baked doughnuts might not achieve the exact same crispiness and slightly ‘fried’ exterior as their air-fried counterparts, they will still be wonderfully soft, fluffy, and incredibly tender. They will absorb glazes and toppings beautifully, making for a delicious homemade treat. It’s a fantastic, less hands-on option that still delivers a satisfying homemade doughnut experience for anyone who prefers baking!
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips for Optimal Enjoyment
These Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts are truly at their absolute best when served fresh and warm, straight from the air fryer and generously coated with your chosen topping. There’s nothing quite like the experience of biting into a warm, soft doughnut with a freshly set glaze. They make an exceptional centerpiece for a festive weekend brunch spread, a delightful and unexpected addition to a special breakfast, or simply a comforting treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or a glass of cold milk. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve them alongside fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The cinnamon-sugar doughnut holes are particularly popular for casual snacking and are perfect for little hands at any gathering. If you happen to have any leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you, as they tend to disappear quickly!), it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will retain their quality for up to 2 days. While they are certainly best fresh, they can be gently reheated if desired. A quick zap in the microwave for just a few seconds will warm them through, or you can pop them back into the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 300°F (150°C) to regain some of their warmth and a touch of crispness. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the cold air can quickly make them dense and dry. Prepare to enjoy these homemade delights quickly, as they won’t last long!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Doughnuts
Q: Can I use different types of canned biscuit dough for this recipe?
A: Yes, absolutely! While traditional flaky or buttermilk refrigerated biscuits generally yield the best and most classic doughnut texture, you are welcome to experiment with other varieties. Homestyle biscuits, for instance, will produce a denser, more bread-like doughnut, while jumbo biscuits will result in larger, more substantial treats. Just keep in mind that using larger biscuits might require a slightly longer cooking time in the air fryer. Always adjust your cooking duration accordingly, ensuring they are beautifully golden brown and thoroughly cooked through before removing them.
Q: How do I prevent my doughnuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?
A: The secret to preventing sticking and achieving a perfectly golden crust is ample cooking spray! It is crucial to thoroughly spray the air fryer basket before you even place any biscuit dough inside. Additionally, lightly coat the tops of the doughnuts themselves with a layer of cooking spray. This dual application creates a reliable non-stick surface and significantly contributes to that desirable crispy, golden exterior. Another important tip: do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook your doughnuts in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation around each piece, which is essential for even cooking and preventing them from sticking together.
Q: Can I make these Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts ahead of time?
A: While these Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts are undeniably at their peak perfection when served fresh and warm, still slightly crisp from the air fryer, you can certainly do some prep work in advance. The canned biscuit dough itself cannot be prepared too far ahead once opened, as it’s designed to cook quickly. However, you can easily prepare your chosen glazes (like the chocolate glaze) or the cinnamon-sugar mixture ahead of time and store them. Then, simply cook the doughnuts just before serving to ensure the freshest taste and optimal texture. If you have leftovers, they can be stored as described in the “Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips” section.
Q: What other toppings or glazes can I use besides chocolate and cinnamon-sugar?
A: The possibilities for customizing your Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts are virtually endless! Beyond the delicious chocolate glaze and classic cinnamon sugar, there are many creative options to explore. You can opt for a simple and elegant dusting of powdered sugar for a quick finish. A basic vanilla glaze, made from confectioners’ sugar, a splash of milk, and a hint of vanilla extract, is always a crowd-plepleaser. For a unique twist, try a maple glaze by incorporating a bit of maple syrup into your basic glaze. You can also dip them in melted butter and then roll them in various additions like colorful sprinkles, finely chopped toasted nuts (such as pecans, almonds, or walnuts), or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Feel free to get creative and tailor your homemade doughnuts to your personal preferences and any special occasion!
Craving more? Subscribe to Just a Taste to get new recipes, meal plans and a newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! And stay in touch on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for all of the latest updates.
Air Fryer Biscuit Doughnuts
Equipment
- Air fryer
Ingredients
For the doughnuts:
- Cooking Spray
- 1 (16.3-oz.) can refrigerated biscuits
For the cinnamon-sugar topping:
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 3 Tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the chocolate glaze:
- 1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons whole milk
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Make the doughnuts:
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Carefully separate the biscuits onto your clean work surface. A standard can should provide 8 perfect biscuit rounds.
- Using a 1-inch circular cookie cutter (or a small bottle cap), cut out the centers of each biscuit to form 8 classic doughnuts and 8 adorable doughnut holes.
- Generously grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange a single layer of doughnuts and doughnut holes inside the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Lightly coat the tops of the doughnuts with cooking spray. Air-fry them for 4 to 5 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and puffed up.
- Carefully transfer the air-fried doughnuts to a wire rack to cool. Repeat the air-frying process with any remaining uncooked doughnuts and doughnut holes until all are done. Allow them to cool completely on the rack before proceeding to the glazes and toppings.
Make the cinnamon-sugar topping:
- In a small, shallow bowl, combine and stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well mixed.
- Brush a few of the cooled doughnuts (and/or doughnut holes) with melted unsalted butter, then immediately dredge them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Ensure they are fully coated, gently shaking off any excess. Serve these delicious cinnamon-sugar doughnuts warm or at room temperature.
Make the chocolate glaze:
- In a separate small bowl, sift together the confectioners’ sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder to remove any lumps. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is completely smooth and reaches your desired drizzling or dipping consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add an additional 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until perfect.
- Dip the completely cooled doughnuts (and/or doughnut holes) into the prepared chocolate glaze, coating one side. If using sprinkles or other toppings, apply them immediately after dipping while the glaze is still wet. Return the glazed doughnuts to the wire rack and allow the glaze to set, which typically takes about 5 minutes, before serving.
- ★ Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!
Nutrition
Did you try this recipe?
Leave a comment below with your star rating!