Sure! Here’s a full, detailed, and engaging long-form recipe for Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts using refrigerated biscuits. This version includes an introduction, a bit of history, step-by-step instructions, and a sweet conclusion — perfect for donut lovers everywhere!
Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Made with Refrigerated Biscuits)
Introduction: A Sweet Shortcut to Homemade Donuts
Few things compare to the warm, sugary comfort of a freshly made donut. But what if we told you that you could whip up a batch in just five minutes — without deep frying, without dough from scratch, and with only four simple ingredients? Welcome to the magic of Air Fryer Donuts made from refrigerated biscuits! This clever kitchen hack transforms store-bought biscuit dough into golden, fluffy donuts coated in cinnamon sugar goodness — no oil splatters, no mess, and a whole lot of joy.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a spontaneous dessert, these donuts are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious details.
A Brief History of Donuts
Donuts (or doughnuts) have a rich and round history. It’s believed they originated from Dutch settlers in early America, who made “olykoeks” or “oil cakes.” These early treats evolved over time, gaining popularity throughout the U.S., especially after World War I when American soldiers brought back tales of the “doughnut girls” who served them overseas.
Today, donuts are an international symbol of indulgence and creativity, available in endless flavors and styles — from classic glazed to maple bacon to these easy Air Fryer cinnamon sugar versions!
Ingredients: Simple and Sweet
For this quick and easy recipe, you’ll only need:
- 1 can of Jumbo Flaky Biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional:
- Coconut oil spray or olive oil spray (for air fryer basket)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Air fryer
- 1-inch round cutter (for donut holes)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Pastry brush (silicone preferred)
- Small spoon
- Tongs (optional, for flipping donuts)
Method: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Turn on your air fryer to 360°F and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, simply set it to 360°F and let it run empty.
2. Prep the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Stir well until evenly mixed. Set this aside — it’ll be your donut coating!
3. Prepare the Donuts
Open your can of jumbo flaky biscuits and gently separate them. Using a 1-inch round cutter, cut out the centers to form traditional donut shapes. Save the centers — those become adorable mini donut holes!
4. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly coat your air fryer basket with coconut oil spray or olive oil spray. Avoid non-stick sprays like PAM as they can damage your air fryer’s coating.
5. Air Fry the Donuts
Place as many donuts as will fit in a single layer (without touching) in the basket. Air fry at 360°F for 5 minutes, flipping halfway through if your air fryer requires it. Repeat in batches as needed.
Tip: While the donuts are cooking, melt your butter in the microwave or stovetop.
6. Coat in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Once the donuts are golden and cooked through:
- Brush each donut generously with the melted butter using a pastry brush.
- Immediately dip and roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Use a spoon to sprinkle the top and sides.
- Gently shake off excess sugar.
7. Repeat with Donut Holes
Don’t forget the centers! Air fry your donut holes for 2–3 minutes (they cook faster), then coat in the same butter and cinnamon sugar combo.
Donut Lovers Rejoice!
These air fryer donuts are light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet with that classic cinnamon sugar crunch. They taste like they came straight from a bakery — but took a fraction of the time and none of the mess. Perfect for:
- Breakfast parties
- Lazy weekend treats
- Brunch with friends
- Late-night cravings
- Or just because you deserve something sweet
Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, cold milk, or a warm latte — pure comfort.
Conclusion: A Love Letter to Easy Donuts
Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner in the kitchen, or just a donut lover with five minutes to spare, this recipe proves that magic can happen in your air fryer. With just a handful of ingredients and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, you can create a treat that warms hearts and brings smiles.
So next time that donut craving hits, skip the drive-thru and let your air fryer do the work.
From our kitchen to yours — happy donut-making, and may every bite be blissfully sweet.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version or to turn this into a visual recipe card!