Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are the ultimate shortcut dessert when you crave something sweet, fluffy, and warm without deep frying. Made from canned buttermilk biscuits and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, these homemade donuts are crisp on the outside and soft inside. With a simple vanilla glaze and endless topping options, Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are perfect for breakfast treats, brunch spreads, or quick desserts. This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and a reliable air fryer method to give you bakery style results in minutes, all while keeping the preparation clean and effortless.
Benefits of Making Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts
Air frying donuts instead of deep frying significantly reduces excess oil while still delivering a golden brown finish and tender crumb. This cooking method uses hot circulating air, which means less mess, less grease, and faster cleanup. For people looking to enjoy sweet treats with slightly lighter preparation, Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts offer a practical alternative.
Buttermilk biscuits provide a soft, fluffy texture thanks to enriched flour and leavening agents. While these donuts are a sweet indulgence, they can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Powdered sugar glaze adds sweetness, and milk contributes small amounts of calcium. However, individuals monitoring sugar intake or following low carb plans should enjoy these in moderation.
The recipe is especially convenient for busy families because it requires minimal ingredients and no complicated dough preparation. There is no yeast, no long proofing time, and no need for deep frying equipment. The air fryer ensures even cooking and consistent results every time, making it beginner friendly.
Ingredients List
1 can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, 10 count, 7.5 oz total
Cooking oil spray, enough to coat both sides
1 cup powdered sugar, 120 grams
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, about 28 grams
1 1/2 teaspoons Watkins Clear Vanilla Flavor or Simply Organic Vanilla Flavoring
1 to 2 tablespoons whole milk, 15 to 30 ml
Optional toppings
2 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for cinnamon sugar coating
Equipment
Air fryer, basket style or tray style
Small mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Pastry brush or spoon for glazing
Cooling rack
Tongs for flipping
Step by Step Instructions
Shape the Biscuit Donuts
Open the can of buttermilk biscuits and separate each biscuit carefully. Using your fingers, gently pinch a hole in the center of each biscuit. Stretch the dough slowly to create an even donut shape. The hole should be about 1 inch wide because it will shrink slightly during cooking. Keep the donut thickness consistent to ensure even air frying.
Place the shaped donuts on a clean surface while you prepare the air fryer. You can also shape the centers into small donut holes and cook them alongside the full size donuts.
Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking. Generously spray both sides of each biscuit donut with oil spray. This helps create a golden brown exterior and promotes even crisping.
Arrange the donuts in a single layer inside the basket. Leave space between each donut so hot air can circulate properly. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Cook the donuts at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes total. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure both sides brown evenly. The donuts should be lightly golden brown with a slightly crisp surface. If needed, cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, checking carefully to avoid overcooking.
Remove the donuts carefully using tongs and place them on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool slightly before glazing. This helps the glaze adhere better without melting too quickly.
Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and melted butter until smooth. Add Watkins Clear Vanilla Flavor or Simply Organic Vanilla Flavoring for a sweet aromatic note. Gradually add milk, starting with 1 tablespoon, and whisk until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency similar to school glue. Add more milk only if necessary.
Dip each warm donut into the glaze, turning to coat the top evenly. Let excess glaze drip off before placing the donuts back on the cooling rack. Add sprinkles immediately if using so they stick to the glaze.
Storage
Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts taste best when served fresh and warm, but you can store leftovers properly to maintain texture. Place fully cooled donuts in an airtight container lined with paper towels. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. The paper towel helps absorb excess moisture and prevents sogginess.
If you prefer longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, reheat in the air fryer at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 3 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving for too long because it can make the donuts rubbery.
For freezing, place unglazed donuts in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the air fryer before adding fresh glaze.
Variations and Substitutions
Cinnamon sugar donuts are a classic variation. Instead of glazing, brush warm donuts lightly with melted butter and coat them in a mixture of 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Chocolate glaze can be made by mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder and enough milk to reach desired thickness. Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla flavoring for depth.
Maple glaze is another delicious option. Combine powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup and a splash of milk. For dairy free needs, use almond milk or oat milk and dairy free butter alternatives.
You can also fill Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts with jam or pastry cream by piping filling into the side after cooking.
Tips and Tricks
Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. Skipping this step can result in uneven browning. Do not overcrowd the basket because proper air circulation is essential for crisp texture.
Spray the donuts generously with oil spray. A light coat may not produce the desired golden finish. Use a neutral oil spray such as avocado oil or canola oil for best results.
Flip the donuts halfway through cooking. This ensures uniform browning and prevents one side from becoming too dark. Keep an eye on the final minute of cooking because air fryer models can vary slightly in power.
When glazing, make sure the donuts are warm but not extremely hot. If too hot, the glaze will slide off. If too cool, the glaze may not spread smoothly. For thicker glaze, reduce milk slightly. For thinner glaze, add a few drops of milk at a time.
Notes
Nutrition information may vary depending on how much glaze is used. Typically, about one third of the prepared glaze adheres to the donuts. If you prefer a heavier coating, the calorie count will increase slightly.
Different brands of refrigerated biscuits may vary in size and thickness. Adjust cooking time if needed. Larger biscuits may require an extra minute of air frying.
Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts can also be made using flaky style biscuits, but they may separate slightly during cooking. Gently press the layers together before shaping to maintain structure.
Using quality vanilla flavoring such as Watkins Clear Vanilla Flavor or Simply Organic Vanilla Flavoring enhances the glaze aroma and overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts warm with fresh fruit, coffee, or cold milk. They also pair beautifully with hot chocolate or a light yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast spread.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are a quick, delicious solution when you want homemade donuts without deep frying. Using refrigerated buttermilk biscuits and a simple vanilla glaze, this recipe delivers soft interiors and golden exteriors in minutes. With easy variations, practical storage tips, and beginner friendly instructions, Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are perfect for busy mornings or sweet cravings. Try different glazes and toppings to customize your batch and enjoy bakery style flavor straight from your kitchen.
FAQs
- Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned biscuits?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough works well, but ensure the dough is evenly rolled and not too thick for proper air frying. - Why are my Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts doughy inside?
They may need an extra 1 to 2 minutes of cooking time. Make sure the air fryer is preheated and avoid overcrowding. - Can I make these donuts without glaze?
Absolutely. Toss them in cinnamon sugar or dust with powdered sugar for a lighter finish. - How do I keep donuts from sticking to the basket?
Spray both the basket and the donuts generously with cooking oil spray before cooking. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply cook in batches to maintain proper airflow and even browning.
