Sometimes I want dessert, but I don’t want a whole baking project. These air fryer donut holes are my shortcut: they’re warm, fluffy, and coated in that classic cinnamon-sugar “donut shop” finish—without deep frying and without waiting forever.
Using refrigerated biscuit dough keeps everything simple. The air fryer gives them a golden outside in minutes, and the butter-cinnamon sugar coating sticks perfectly while they’re warm. It’s the kind of treat I can make on a random night when the craving hits.
Why you’ll love it
- Done fast—perfect for last-minute dessert
- No deep frying, no messy oil
- Kid-friendly and great for sharing
- Easy base recipe with lots of flavor options
Ingredients tips
- I use standard refrigerated biscuits (not flaky layers) for the most donut-like texture.
- Cutting pieces evenly helps them cook at the same speed.
- I don’t overcrowd the basket—air flow is what makes them golden.
- Melted butter helps cinnamon sugar stick better than spraying oil.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, I use a fresh cinnamon jar (it really matters here).
- If I want a “glazed” version, I swap cinnamon sugar for a quick powdered sugar glaze.
How to make it (method — step-by-step)
- I preheat the air fryer and lightly grease the basket.
- I cut each biscuit into 4 pieces (donut hole size).
- I air fry in a single layer until puffed and golden, shaking once.
- I melt butter in a bowl while they cook.
- I mix cinnamon and sugar in a second bowl.
- I toss hot donut holes in butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
- I serve immediately while warm and fluffy.
Easy upgrades (choose 1–2)
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for extra “donut shop” flavor.
- Make a chocolate dip with melted chocolate chips.
- Dust with powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar for a classic finish.
- Add a vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla).
What to serve with it
- Hot coffee or a latte
- A glass of cold milk
- Fresh berries on the side
- A little chocolate or caramel dipping sauce
Meal prep + leftovers
They’re best fresh, but leftovers still work. I store them airtight for 1 day and reheat for 20–30 seconds so they soften again. If needed, I re-toss in a tiny bit of cinnamon sugar.
10-Minute Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and lightly grease the basket.
- Cut each biscuit into 4 equal pieces.
- Air fry the dough pieces in a single layer for 3–5 minutes, shaking once, until puffed and golden.
- While they cook, melt the butter in one bowl and mix sugar with cinnamon (and salt) in a second bowl.
- Toss the hot donut holes in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar until well coated.
- Serve warm for the softest, fluffiest texture.