Pin It The smell of cinnamon drifting through my apartment at 9pm on a Tuesday stopped me mid Netflix binge. I had grabbed a can of biscuits on impulse earlier that day, something my college self would have considered ingredients for breakfast casserole or nothing at all. But there I was, cutting holes in the center of each dough circle like I was running a professional donut shop. The air fryer hummed quietly, and suddenly my kitchen felt warmer than the TV screen ever could.
My roommate wandered in, following the cinnamon trail like a cartoon character. She watched me toss the first batch in sugar and immediately reached for one, burning her fingers slightly but not caring. That was the night we learned warm donuts solve everything from bad days to deadline stress. We ate four each standing at the counter, sugar coating our lips, air fryer ping ponging between batches.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret shortcut that makes this recipe accessible to everyone. Any standard 16 ounce can works perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brushing the donuts with butter right out of the air fryer helps the cinnamon sugar stick like magic.
- Granulated sugar: Creates that classic crunch and sweetness. The coarse texture really shines here.
- Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that transforms simple dough into something nostalgic and comforting.
Instructions
- Preheat and prep:
- Get your air fryer heating to 350°F while you open the biscuit can and find something round to cut the donut holes. A shot glass works in a pinch.
- Shape the donuts:
- Press your cutter through the center of each biscuit. Save those little dough rounds for mini donut holes later.
- Air fry to golden:
- Arrange the donuts in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping halfway until they are puffed and beautifully browned.
- Coat immediately:
- Mix your cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. Brush each hot donut with melted butter then toss in the mixture until fully covered.
Pin It 
Pin It I made these for a Sunday morning brunch once and watched my sister eat three before saying a single word. The way she closed her eyes at first bite told me everything. These are the recipes that turn ordinary mornings into small celebrations without anyone trying too hard.
Getting The coating Just Right
After years of making these, I have learned the timing matters more than I expected. Have your cinnamon sugar mixed and ready before you even start the air fryer. The window for perfect coating is brief, maybe thirty seconds while the donuts are hot enough to melt the butter but not so hot that the sugar slides right off.
Batch Cooking Wisdom
Do not crowd your air fryer basket thinking you will save time. The donuts need space to puff up and brown evenly. I usually cook four at a time and keep the coated ones warm in a low oven. This way everyone gets to eat them together instead of one person watching everyone else eat.
Beyond The Basic Recipe
Once you have mastered the classic version, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to your sugar mixture. It adds such warmth. A drop of vanilla extract mixed into the melted butter creates another layer of flavor entirely.
- Swap half the white sugar for brown sugar for deeper caramel notes
- Add a tiny pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon if you like heat with your sweet
- These are best eaten within an hour but can be reheated for 30 seconds
Pin It 
Pin It Some recipes are about technique and precision, but this one is about joy and simplicity and the magic that happens when warm dough meets cinnamon sugar.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuit dough?
Yes, you can use your favorite yeast donut dough recipe, though refrigerated biscuit dough offers the quickest and most convenient option for this air fryer method.
- → How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray before arranging the donut shapes. This ensures easy removal without damaging the golden exterior.
- → Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the melted unsalted butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version that still delivers excellent coating and flavor.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftover donuts?
Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This helps restore some of the freshly made texture and warmth.
- → Can I freeze the donut holes?
Yes, cook the donut holes as directed, let cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes.
- → How long should I let the donuts cool before serving?
These donuts are best served warm while the cinnamon sugar coating is fresh. Let them cool for just 2-3 minutes after coating—the sugar needs a moment to set but they should still be warm.