Air Fryer Donuts (Easy Biscuit + Cake Donut Recipes That Actually Work)
If your air fryer donuts turn out dry, hard, or uneven, you’re not alone. Donuts are a bit tricky because they need the right balance of heat and moisture to stay soft inside.
The good news, once you use the right method, air fryer donuts can come out light, fluffy, and surprisingly close to fried donuts without the oil.
In this guide, you’ll learn two easy ways, biscuit donuts for quick results and cake donuts for a more homemade feel, plus simple glaze ideas and tips to keep them soft every time.
Can You Make Donuts in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can make donuts in an air fryer, and they cook faster than traditional frying while using much less oil.
Air fryers circulate hot air around the dough, which creates a lightly crisp outside while keeping the inside soft, as long as the temperature is controlled properly.
What You Need to Make Air Fryer Donuts
You can keep this simple or go fully homemade depending on your preference.
Ingredients:
- Biscuit dough (for quick donuts)
- OR basic cake donut batter
- Sugar, cinnamon, or glaze ingredients
Tools:
- Air fryer
- Donut cutter or small glass
- Parchment paper
If you’re just starting out, understanding how to preheat an air fryer helps prevent uneven cooking.
Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Donuts (Biscuit Method)
This is the easiest and fastest method.
- Cut the donuts
Use a biscuit cutter and remove the center. - Preheat air fryer
Set to 350°F for 3 minutes. - Place donuts in basket
Leave space between each one. - Cook donuts
Air fry at 350°F for 5–6 minutes. - Coat immediately
Brush with butter and roll in sugar or glaze.
Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Donuts (Cake Donut Method)
This gives you a more traditional donut texture.
Basic batter:
- Flour, sugar, baking powder
- Milk, egg, butter
Steps:
- Mix batter until smooth
- Pipe or shape into donut rings
- Cook at 350°F for 6–8 minutes
Keep shapes even so they cook uniformly.
Best Temperature and Time for Air Fryer Donuts
The best setting is 350°F for 5–8 minutes, depending on thickness.
Thicker donuts need more time, while smaller ones cook faster.
If you’re adjusting from oven recipes, this air fryer conversion guide helps you avoid overcooking.
How to Keep Donuts Soft (Not Dry)
Dry donuts are the most common issue.
To keep them soft:
- Don’t overcook
- Use slightly lower temperature if needed
- Brush with butter after cooking
- Avoid overcrowding
If texture feels off, these tips for crispy air fryer results explain how airflow affects moisture too.
Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Donuts turn out dry
Reduce cooking time and brush with butter.
Donuts are raw inside
Cook slightly longer at a lower temperature.
Donuts cook unevenly
Space them out and keep sizes consistent.
Donuts lose shape
Handle dough gently and avoid overmixing.
Donut Glazes and Toppings You Can Try
This is where things get fun.
Sugar Coating
Roll warm donuts in sugar or cinnamon sugar.
Chocolate Glaze
Dip donuts in melted chocolate and let set.
Cinnamon Sugar
Mix sugar with cinnamon and coat donuts while warm.
If you want more dessert ideas, check these easy air fryer desserts you can make in minutes.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Donuts
To store:
- Keep in airtight container for up to 2 days
To reheat:
- Air fry at 300°F for 2–3 minutes
This brings back softness without drying them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought dough for air fryer donuts?
Yes, biscuit dough works great and is the easiest option.
Why are my donuts dry in the air fryer?
This usually happens from overcooking or too high temperature.
Do I need oil for air fryer donuts?
No, but brushing with butter improves flavor and texture.
Can I make filled donuts in an air fryer?
Yes, but fill them after cooking for best results.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer donuts are one of the easiest ways to enjoy a sweet treat without deep frying. Start with the biscuit method for quick results, then try the cake version once you’re comfortable.
Keep the temperature steady, avoid overcooking, and add your favorite toppings to make them your own.
