Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Your Ultimate Guide to a Sweet Treat

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the convenience of air frying. These donuts are light, fluffy, and coated in a sweet, spiced mixture that’s perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a snack to share with friends, or a creative dessert idea, these donuts are a fantastic choice.

Made with simple ingredients and requiring minimal effort, air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts are a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. They’re quick to prepare, mess-free, and deliver the same delicious taste and texture you’d expect from your favorite bakery. Plus, with no need for deep frying, they’re a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any time.

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

To make the perfect donuts, you’ll need a mix of common pantry items. Here’s what to gather before getting started:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – For soft and fluffy donuts.
• Sugar (½ cup) – Adds sweetness to the batter.
• Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Helps the donuts rise beautifully.
• Milk (½ cup) – Creates a moist texture in the dough.
• Egg (1 large) – For binding everything together.
• Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Adds richness to the dough.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: A blend of 1 cup sugar + 2 tsp ground cinnamon for that sweet, aromatic finish.

Optional ingredients like vanilla extract or nutmeg can elevate the flavor further.

Easy Steps to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts from Scratch

Prefer making your donuts completely from scratch? Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to wow your family or guests!

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

1. Combine dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt) in a large bowl.
2. Whisk wet ingredients (milk, egg, melted butter, and a splash of vanilla extract) in another bowl.
3. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

Roll the dough onto a floured surface, flattening it to around ½ inch thick. Use a round cutter to shape the donuts, and a smaller cutter for the holes.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the donuts in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
• Fry for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm, brush the donuts with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated.

Pro tip: Serve these warm for ultimate deliciousness!

How to Make 3-Ingredient Air Fryer Donuts at Home

Craving the sweet delight of donuts without the hassle of deep frying? Look no further! With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious air fryer donuts right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough
• 1/4 cup of melted butter
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F.
2. While the air fryer is heating up, carefully remove the biscuit dough from the can and separate the individual biscuits.
3. Use a small round cutter or your hands to create a hole in the center of each biscuit, forming the classic donut shape.
4. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
5. Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer, making sure to leave enough space between them for even cooking.
6. Air fry the donuts at 350°F for 4–5 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
7. While the donuts are still warm, brush each one with melted butter, ensuring they are fully coated.
8. In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are fully coated.
9. Serve your homemade air fryer donuts warm and enjoy these irresistibly fluffy treats!

Now you can indulge in the sweet satisfaction of freshly made donuts without the need for a deep fryer. These air fryer donuts are the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time you’re craving a little something sweet. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: A Bite-Sized Delight

Craving bite-sized treats that are quick and easy to make? Look no further than these irresistible air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes! With their fluffy texture and delightful cinnamon sugar coating, they are the perfect indulgence for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you want a little something sweet.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into small balls and place them in the preheated air fryer basket.
5. Cook the donut holes in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. While the donut holes are cooking, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl.
7. Once the donut holes are cooked, transfer them to a wire rack or plate to cool slightly.
8. While still warm, roll each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
9. Serve these homemade air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes warm and enjoy every delightful bite!

With this easy no-yeast recipe and the convenience of your air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these delectable donut holes in no time. So go ahead, treat yourself and savor the sweet satisfaction of these bite-sized delights.

No-Yeast Air Fryer Donut Holes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into the preheated air fryer basket. Leave some space between each donut hole to allow for expansion.
5. Air fry the donut holes for 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
6. While the donut holes are cooking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
7. Once the donut holes are cooked, transfer them to a wire rack or plate to cool slightly.
8. While still warm, roll each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
9. Serve these homemade air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes warm and enjoy every delightful bite!

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Donuts

Using an air fryer for making cinnamon sugar donuts comes with several perks:

• Healthier Alternative: Air frying requires little to no oil, reducing calorie and fat content compared to deep-fried donuts.
• Consistent Results: The air fryer’s even heat ensures every donut comes out perfectly golden and cooked.
• Quick & Convenient: No need to heat up oil or wait for the oven to preheat—air fryers are speedy and mess-free!

Now you can indulge in these delectable donut holes without the guilt, thanks to the convenience and health benefits of using an air fryer.

Popular Air Fryer Donut Recipes from Allrecipes

Looking for more mouthwatering air fryer donut recipes? Allrecipes has got you covered with some of the most popular and beloved options. Here’s a step-by-step guide for two irresistible air fryer donut recipes:

1. Classic Glazed Donuts

• In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for a few minutes until the yeast activates.
• Add flour, melted butter, egg, salt, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise until doubled in size.
• Roll out the dough and cut it into donut shapes using a donut cutter or two different-sized round cookie cutters.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease the air fryer basket and place the donuts inside, leaving room for them to expand.
• Air fry the donuts for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Dip each donut into the glaze while they’re still warm, allowing the excess glaze to drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to set.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
• Gradually add milk and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
• Roll the dough into small balls to create donut holes.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the donut holes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
• Air fry the donut holes for about 6 to 8 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
• In a separate bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
• While the donut holes are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Try these delectable recipes and experience the joy of homemade, air-fried donuts right in your own kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!

Making Krispy Kreme-Style Donuts in Your Air Fryer

Creating delectable Krispy Kreme-style donuts in your air fryer is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for mouthwatering results:

• Prepare the Dough:
• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and warm milk. Mix until a soft dough forms.
• Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
• Shape the Donuts:
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a ¼-inch thickness.
• Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out individual donuts. Then use a smaller round cutter to create the donut holes.
• Let the Donuts Rise and Preheat the Air Fryer:
• Place the donuts and donut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 15-20 minutes.
• Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Air Fry the Donuts:
• Place the donuts in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
• Air fry the donuts for about 6 to 8 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Flip them halfway through for even browning.
• Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
• In a separate bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
• While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy irresistibly delicious Krispy Kreme-style donuts right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge your taste buds and experience the joy of homemade, air-fried goodness!

Perfecting the Cinnamon Sugar Coating for Air Fryer Donuts

To achieve the perfect cinnamon sugar coating for your air fryer donuts, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. The ratio of sugar to cinnamon can vary depending on your preference, but a common ratio is 1/2 cup of sugar to 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Adjust the amounts according to your taste.
2. Coat the Donuts while Warm: Once the donuts are cooked and still warm, carefully transfer them to a wire rack or a plate. It’s important to coat the donuts while they are still warm to ensure that the cinnamon sugar adheres properly.
3. Roll the Donuts in the Cinnamon Sugar: Roll each warm donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. You can gently press the donut into the mixture to ensure a good coating.
4. Shake off Excess Coating: After coating each donut, gently shake off any excess cinnamon sugar. This will prevent the coating from becoming too thick and overpowering the flavor of the donuts.

By following these steps, you’ll create a delightful cinnamon sugar coating that adds a sweet and aromatic touch to your air fryer donuts. Enjoy the irresistible combination of fluffy donuts and the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Having trouble with your donuts? Here’s how to fix common problems:

• Dry Donuts: Check cooking time and brush with extra butter before coating.
• Underbaked Centers: Ensure your air fryer is preheated and don’t overcrowd the basket.
• Uneven Coating: Always coat while warm and use fresh cinnamon sugar for better adherence.

Air Fryer Donuts Without Yeast: A Healthier Twist

Enjoy the deliciousness of donuts with a healthier twist by making them without yeast. Here’s how you can create these delectable treats:

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cinnamon sugar mixture for coating
• Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
5. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out donut shapes.
6. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
7. Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other.
8. Air fry the donuts for 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown.
9. Remove the donuts from the air fryer and immediately coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
10. Serve and enjoy your homemade, healthier air fryer donuts without yeast!

These delightful donuts offer a lighter alternative without compromising on flavor. Experiment with different toppings or fillings to personalize your creations and indulge guilt-free.

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If (somehow!) you have leftovers, follow these tips to keep them fresh:

• Storage: Place donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.
• Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 300°F for 1–2 minutes to restore the perfect texture.

Avoid microwaving, as it can make the donuts soggy.

Fun Variations to Try with Air Fryer Donuts

Feeling experimental? Try these variations to spice up your air fryer donut game:

• Chocolate-Coated Donuts: Dip in melted chocolate and top with sprinkles.
• Apple Cinnamon Donuts: Add diced apples to the dough.
• Savory Donuts: Skip cinnamon sugar and sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs for a unique snack!

Conclusion

Indulging in homemade air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. With their crispy exterior, soft and fluffy interior, and irresistible cinnamon sugar coating, these donuts are a crowd-pleaser. The air fryer simplifies the cooking process, resulting in a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried donuts. Whether you’re a first-time donut maker or a seasoned pro, these air fryer donuts are sure to satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these irresistible treats. Happy air frying!

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular donut dough in the air fryer?

• A: Absolutely! You can use your favorite donut dough recipe in the air fryer. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions and adjust the timing accordingly.

Q: Can I use pre-made biscuit dough to make donuts in the air fryer?

• A: Yes! Using pre-made biscuit dough is a quick and easy way to whip up delicious donuts in the air fryer. Simply shape the biscuit dough into donut shapes and follow the cooking instructions.

Q: How should I store leftover air fryer donuts?

• A: To keep your air fryer donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat them in the air fryer or oven before enjoying.

Q: Can I make gluten-free donuts in the air fryer?

• A: Absolutely! There are many gluten-free donut recipes available that are specifically designed for the air fryer. Simply look for gluten-free donut recipes or adapt your favorite recipe using gluten-free flour.

Q: Can I make vegan donuts in the air fryer?

• A: Yes, you can make vegan donuts in the air fryer! There are plenty of vegan donut recipes available that use plant-based ingredients and can be easily adapted for the air fryer. Look for vegan donut recipes or substitute dairy and eggs with suitable alternatives in your favorite recipe.

Q: Can I make mini donuts in the air fryer?

• A: Absolutely! Mini donuts are perfect for the air fryer. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly, as mini donuts will cook faster than regular-sized ones. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to assist you!