Can Donuts Be Made in an Air Fryer Discover the Easy Method

Yes, you can make delicious, fluffy donuts in an air fryer—no deep frying required! This easy method delivers golden, bakery-style donuts in minutes with minimal oil and effort, making it a game-changer for home bakers. Perfect for quick treats or creative toppings, air fryer donuts are a healthier, hassle-free twist on the classic favorite.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryer donuts work: Achieve crispy, fluffy results with less oil than frying.
• Prep store-bought dough: Use canned biscuit dough for quick, no-fuss donuts in minutes.
• Light spray of oil: Coat dough lightly for even browning and a golden finish.
• Adjust time and temp: Cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Customize with toppings: Glaze, sugar, or cinnamon after cooking for personalized flavors.
• Batch-friendly method: Cook multiple donuts at once, perfect for quick snacks or treats.

Can Donuts Be Made in an Air Fryer? Discover the Easy Method

Have you ever stood in front of your air fryer, staring at it like it holds some secret culinary superpower? Maybe you’ve used it for crispy chicken wings or roasted veggies, but what about donuts? Yes, those fluffy, sugary, melt-in-your-mouth treats that usually come from a deep fryer or bakery. The idea of making them at home—without the mess, oil, or guilt—might sound too good to be true. But here’s the fun part: it’s not. You can, in fact, make donuts in an air fryer. And no, they’re not a sad, dry imitation. With the right method, they can be golden, tender, and just as satisfying as their fried counterparts.

I remember the first time I tried this. I was skeptical. “Air fryer donuts? Really?” I thought. But after one bite—slightly crisp on the outside, soft and airy inside, dusted with cinnamon sugar—I was hooked. It felt like a little kitchen miracle. No hot oil splattering on the counter, no lingering fry smell in my tiny apartment, and best of all, no deep-frying guilt. If you’ve been wondering, “Can donuts be made in an air fryer?” the answer is a resounding yes. And the process? Surprisingly simple. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious baker, or just someone who loves donuts but hates the mess, this method might just become your new favorite weekend ritual.

Why Air Fryer Donuts Are a Game-Changer

Healthier Without Sacrificing Flavor

Let’s be honest: traditional deep-fried donuts are delicious, but they’re also loaded with oil and calories. Air frying cuts down on that significantly. Instead of submerging your donuts in hot oil, the air fryer circulates hot air around them, creating that golden crust with just a light spray or brush of oil—usually less than a teaspoon per donut. That means fewer calories, less fat, and a much lighter texture overall.

Now, does that mean air fryer donuts are “health food”? Not exactly. But compared to their deep-fried cousins, they’re a smarter choice. Think of it as a healthier indulgence. You’re still getting the sweetness, the soft crumb, the joy—but without the oil overload. And for anyone watching their intake or managing dietary concerns, that’s a win.

Less Mess, Less Stress

Deep frying is messy. Hot oil splatters, the kitchen smells like a diner for days, and cleanup takes forever. Air frying? Not so much. Most models have removable baskets that go straight into the dishwasher. No oil to strain, no grease to wipe down. Just pop in a batch, wait 8–10 minutes, and boom—you’re done. I once made donuts while my toddler napped, and the only evidence left was the sweet smell of cinnamon and a single sugar-coated plate.

Plus, air fryers heat up fast and don’t require preheating for most donut recipes. That means less waiting and more enjoying. If you’ve ever been deterred by the hassle of making donuts at home, the air fryer removes most of those barriers. It’s the kind of convenience that makes baking feel fun again.

Perfect for Small Batches

Ever made a full batch of donuts only to realize you’ve created a sugar mountain you can’t possibly finish? With an air fryer, you can make just 2–4 donuts at a time. No need to commit to a dozen. This is ideal for solo bakers, couples, or anyone who wants a fresh, warm treat without leftovers going stale. It’s also great for experimenting with flavors—try one batch with chocolate glaze, another with powdered sugar, and see which you prefer—all in one afternoon.

How Air Fryers Work Their Magic on Donuts

The Science of Air Frying: Crisp Without the Oil

Air fryers use rapid air technology—basically a high-powered fan and heating element—to circulate hot air around food at high speeds. This creates a convection effect similar to a convection oven, but in a smaller, more efficient space. For donuts, this means the outside gets lightly browned and crisp, while the inside stays soft and fluffy.

The key? Moisture control. Donuts need to rise and cook evenly without drying out. Air fryers strike a balance by heating the surface quickly while allowing the center to cook through gradually. Unlike deep frying, where the donut absorbs oil and can become greasy, air frying relies on surface browning (the Maillard reaction) to develop flavor and texture. A light mist of oil helps this process, but it’s minimal—usually just enough to help sugar or cinnamon stick and promote browning.

Why Dough Texture Matters

Not all donut doughs behave the same in an air fryer. Yeast-raised donuts (like classic glazed) work beautifully because they’re designed to rise in heat. The air fryer’s consistent temperature helps them puff up evenly. But you’ll need to let the dough rise first—just like with traditional methods. Skip this step, and your donuts will be dense and chewy.

For quicker options, baking powder-based donuts (like cake donuts) are ideal. These don’t require rising time and can go straight from mixing to air frying. They’re denser than yeast donuts but still tender, with a crumb that’s slightly more like a muffin. I love using this style for flavored donuts—add lemon zest, blueberries, or even pumpkin spice for a fall twist.

Pro tip: If your dough is too sticky to handle, chill it for 15–20 minutes before shaping. This makes it easier to cut into rounds without tearing, and it helps the donuts hold their shape during cooking.

Temperature and Timing: The Sweet Spot

Most air fryer donuts cook at 325°F to 350°F (160°C–175°C) for 8 to 12 minutes. The exact time depends on your air fryer model and the size of the donuts. Smaller donuts cook faster; larger ones may need a few extra minutes.

Here’s a real-world example: I use a 5.8-quart Ninja air fryer. My yeast donuts (2 inches in diameter) cook at 330°F for 9 minutes. They come out golden, puffed, and perfectly tender. But when I tried the same recipe in a smaller 3-quart model, I needed to reduce the temp to 320°F and cook for 11 minutes to avoid over-browning. So always start checking at 8 minutes—don’t assume one setting fits all.

Also, don’t overcrowd. Air fryers need space for air to circulate. If you stack donuts or pack them too tightly, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Most standard baskets fit 4–6 small donuts. Cook in batches if needed.

Step-by-Step: Making Air Fryer Donuts at Home

Ingredients You’ll Need (Yeast Donut Version)

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Oil spray (or 1–2 tsp oil for brushing)

For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2–3 tbsp milk, ½ tsp vanilla.

The Process: From Dough to Delicious

1. Activate the yeast: In a bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. This means your yeast is alive and ready.
2. Mix the dough: Add flour, sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead by hand or with a mixer for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. (Pro tip: I put mine in the oven with the light on—it’s the perfect warm, draft-free spot.)
4. Shape the donuts: Roll dough to ½-inch thickness. Use a 2.5-inch round cutter for the body and a 1-inch cutter for the hole. Save the holes—they make perfect mini donuts!
5. Second rise: Place shaped donuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise another 20–30 minutes. They should look puffy.
6. Prep the air fryer: Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil. Place donuts in a single layer, leaving space between them.
7. Cook: Air fry at 330°F for 9 minutes. Flip halfway through if your model doesn’t have even browning. They’re done when golden and springy to the touch.
8. Glaze or coat: While warm, dip in glaze, roll in cinnamon sugar, or dust with powdered sugar. Eat immediately for the best texture.

Total time? About 2 hours, but only 15–20 minutes of active work. Most of that is waiting for the dough to rise—perfect for multitasking.

Quick Cake Donut Alternative (No Yeast, No Wait)

If you’re short on time, try this no-rise version:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla

Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine. Roll and cut as above. No rising needed. Air fry at 330°F for 8 minutes. These are ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for a last-minute treat.

Creative Flavor Ideas and Customizations

Glazes, Coatings, and Toppings

The fun part? Making them your own. Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:

• Cinnamon sugar: ½ cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon. Roll warm donuts in it—classic and addictive.
• Chocolate glaze: Melt ½ cup chocolate chips with 2 tbsp milk. Drizzle or dip.
• Maple glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp maple syrup + 1 tsp milk. Adds a cozy, fall vibe.
• Sprinkles: Add right after glazing so they stick.
• Crushed cookies or nuts: Roll in crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or pecans for texture.
• Lemon zest + powdered sugar: Bright, fresh, and perfect for summer.

I once made a “breakfast donut” with a cream cheese glaze and a sprinkle of bacon bits (yes, really). It was weirdly delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Stir these into the dough before shaping:

• 1 tbsp lemon or orange zest
• ½ cup mashed banana or pumpkin puree (adds moisture and flavor)
• ½ cup blueberries or chopped strawberries (pat dry first to avoid sogginess)
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice or cardamom
• ¼ cup cocoa powder (for chocolate donuts)

Just remember: wet add-ins (like fruit) may require a slight adjustment in flour or cooking time. Add an extra tablespoon of flour if the dough feels too soft.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

Yes, you can make air fryer donuts for special diets:

• Vegan: Replace egg with 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water. Use plant-based milk and butter. Most glazes are naturally vegan.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add ½ tsp xanthan gum if it’s not included. The texture will be a bit more tender, so handle gently.

I’ve made both versions, and while they’re not identical to the original, they’re still tasty and satisfying. The key is managing expectations—these are delicious alternatives, not perfect replicas.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When donuts are packed too close, they steam instead of crisp. The result? Pale, soft donuts that look like sad pancakes. Always leave at least a half-inch between each donut. If your basket is small, cook in batches. It’s worth the extra few minutes.

Skipping the Rise

Yeast donuts need time to rise. If you rush this step, your donuts will be dense and chewy. The first rise (1–1.5 hours) is critical for flavor and texture. The second rise (20–30 minutes) helps them puff up in the air fryer. Don’t skip either.

Not Using Enough (or Any) Oil

Air fryers don’t need much oil, but they need some. A light spray or brush helps with browning and prevents sticking. Without it, donuts can dry out or look pale. Use a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil. Avoid olive oil—it can leave a bitter taste.

Overcooking

Air fryers vary in power. What works in one model might overcook in another. Set a timer, but start checking at 8 minutes. Donuts are done when golden and springy. If the outside is brown but the inside feels doughy, reduce the temp next time and cook a minute or two less.

Glazing Too Early (or Too Late)

Glaze when the donuts are warm but not hot. If they’re too hot, the glaze melts and runs off. If they’re too cold, it won’t absorb properly. I like to let them cool for 2–3 minutes before dipping. For coatings like sugar, roll them right after they come out of the air fryer—the warmth helps it stick.

Air Fryer Donut Comparison: What to Expect

To give you a clear picture, here’s a quick comparison of air fryer donuts vs. traditional methods:

Aspect	Air Fryer Donuts	Deep-Fried Donuts
Oil Used	1–2 tsp total (spray or brush)	1–2 cups for frying
Cooking Time	8–12 minutes (plus rise time for yeast)	3–5 minutes per batch (plus oil heating)
Texture	Lightly crisp outside, soft inside	Very crisp, slightly chewy, oil-absorbed
Calories (per donut)	~180–220	~250–300
Cleanup	Dishwasher-safe basket, minimal mess	Oil disposal, splatter, lingering odor
Best For	Small batches, healthier option, quick treats	Classic taste, large batches, traditional texture

As you can see, air fryer donuts aren’t a perfect clone of deep-fried ones—but they’re close enough to satisfy a craving, with big wins in convenience and health.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Should Try It

So, can donuts be made in an air fryer? Absolutely. And they’re not just a novelty—they’re a practical, fun, and delicious way to enjoy a classic treat at home. Whether you’re making a batch for a weekend breakfast, a birthday surprise, or just because you deserve something sweet, the air fryer method delivers.

What I love most is how accessible it makes donut-making. No special skills, no fancy equipment, no deep-frying fear. Just simple ingredients, a little patience (mostly waiting for the dough to rise), and a few minutes of air frying. The result? Golden, fluffy, customizable donuts that taste like a hug from your favorite bakery.

And the best part? You can tweak the recipe endlessly. Want chocolate donuts? Go for it. Cinnamon sugar with a hint of nutmeg? Why not? Gluten-free for a friend? Totally doable. The air fryer doesn’t judge—it just helps you create.

So go ahead. Dust off that air fryer, grab some flour, and give it a try. You might just find that your new favorite donut is the one you made yourself—without the oil, the mess, or the guilt. After all, the best treats are the ones that make your kitchen smell like joy. And with air fryer donuts, that joy is only 10 minutes away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can donuts be made in an air fryer?

Yes, donuts can absolutely be made in an air fryer! This method yields a lighter, less greasy texture compared to deep-frying while still delivering a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

What’s the best way to make air fryer donuts?

The easiest method is using canned biscuit dough—shape it into a ring, air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, and finish with glaze or cinnamon sugar. Homemade dough works too, but pre-made saves time.

Do air fryer donuts taste like traditional fried donuts?

While not identical, air fryer donuts come close with a crisp outside and soft inside. The air fryer’s circulation mimics frying, but with less oil, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

How long do air fryer donuts take to cook?

Most air fryer donuts cook in 5-8 minutes at 350°F. Thicker dough may need an extra minute or two. Always check for a golden-brown exterior and a fully risen texture.

Can I make gluten-free or vegan donuts in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free or vegan dough recipes and adjust cook time slightly if needed. The air fryer’s versatility makes it perfect for accommodating dietary preferences.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for donuts?

Preheating ensures even cooking and a better rise. Run the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F before adding the donuts for optimal results.