Save The smell of cinnamon sugar hitting warm dough still reminds me of that Tuesday night when my sister announced she needed dessert in ten minutes or she would lose her mind. I had a can of biscuits and an air fryer, and somehow we ended up with something that made us forget whatever stress we were under.
My niece walked into the kitchen mid bite and asked if I had been secretly making donuts for years. The way these puff up and turn golden you would never guess they started as biscuits from a can.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: The soft flaky layers become tender donuts that honestly taste better than most bakery versions
- Nonstick cooking spray: A light mist keeps everything from sticking without adding greasy heaviness
- Granulated sugar: Fine grain creates that classic crunch coating we all want on a warm donut
- Ground cinnamon: Fresh is best here since it is the main flavor shining through the sugar
- Unsalted butter: The glue that makes cinnamon sugar actually stick to every surface
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Get it to 350°F so donuts start cooking immediately rather than slowly warming up while the dough sits
- Shape the donuts:
- Press a cutter through the center of each biscuit those little holes become incredible bite sized treats
- Spray and arrange:
- Give the basket a quick coat of spray and lay donuts in one layer without crowding
- Air fry:
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes flipping halfway when they look puffed and golden they are done
- Mix the coating:
- Whisk sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl while donuts cook
- Coat immediately:
- Brush hot donuts with butter then toss in cinnamon sugar while still warm so it adheres perfectly
Save Now these are my go to when I need something sweet but do not want to commit to a full baking project. Friends always assume they took way more effort than they actually did.
Getting The Perfect Shape
I learned that a shot glass works perfectly if you cannot find a round cutter. Just press firmly and twist slightly to cut through the dough cleanly.
Making Them Your Own
After making these dozens of times I have realized the coating possibilities are endless. Powdered sugar cocoa powder or even a vanilla glaze changes the entire vibe.
Serving And Storage
These really shine right after they are made but I have learned a few tricks over time. The texture is never quite the same after sitting but they still disappear quickly.
- Keep the donut holes they are the best part
- Make extra cinnamon sugar because you will want it
- Warm leftovers for 10 seconds to bring back that fresh texture
Save Sometimes the fastest recipes become the ones we keep coming back to. These donuts have saved more last minute dessert emergencies than I care to admit.
Recipe Q&A Section
- → Can I use homemade dough instead of biscuit dough?
Yes, homemade dough works well as long as it's slightly leavened and pliable. Adjust cooking time based on thickness and dough type.
- → How do I prevent donuts from sticking in the air fryer?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray before placing the donuts to ensure easy removal after cooking.
- → Can I add glaze instead of cinnamon sugar?
Absolutely, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla gives a sweet finish. Drizzle over cooled donuts for variation.
- → Are donut holes cooked the same way?
Yes, donut holes can be air-fried alongside or separately, just reduce cooking time slightly as they are smaller.
- → How long can I store these donuts?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm.