5-Minute Air Fryer Doughnuts – Easy, Fluffy & Delicious

There’s something so nostalgic about the smell of warm, sugary doughnuts—especially when they’re golden brown, flaky, and ready in under 15 minutes. And if you’re anything like me, a busy mum in her Soft Girl CEO era, you know that homemade joy tastes even sweeter when it’s this easy. This is perfect for you – my 5-Minute Air Fryer Doughnuts.

As a full-time blogger and mum of three, I live for recipes that bring smiles without turning my kitchen into a war zone of hot oil and flour clouds. This air fryer donut recipe skips the deep fryer completely and delivers those classic donut shapes, soft insides, and perfectly crisp edges—all thanks to hot air and a preheated air fryer.

You can use yeasted dough or a can of biscuit dough or make a vegan doughnut twist with plant-based milk and melted vegan butter. However you roll (literally—with a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface), these easy air fryer donuts will become a new family favourite. Let’s make a batch, shall we?

Before we dive in—yes, I use my beloved Ninja Air Fryer for this recipe. I’ve tested a few, and this one has honestly changed how I cook dinner with three kids running around. If you don’t already have one, I highly recommend it. If you love a plant-based milk alternative why not check out MYOM? Use Code: ADORECHARLOTTE for free shipping!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost.
All opinions remain my own.

this for later

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Doughnuts Recipe

• Healthier twist – Way less oil, same dreamy texture.
• Fluffy perfection – Golden outside, pillowy-soft inside.
• Customisable – Glaze it, dip it, or cinnamon sugar it!
• Kid-friendly – Hayden and Hudson give it 10/10.
• Minimal cleanup – No oil splatter stress here!

Ingredients

Whether you’re using homemade donuts or canned biscuit dough, the process is simple:

For Biscuit Dough Version (super quick & beginner-friendly):

• 1 can of biscuit dough (like Grands or supermarket brand)
• Oil spray or non-stick spray
• Caster sugar or icing sugar for coating

For Homemade Yeasted Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (Oat milk works too)
• 1 tbsp plant-based milk or regular
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup sugar
• 3 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil/vegan butter)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• Vanilla glaze, chocolate glaze, or cocoa powder for topping

Charlotte Tip: Let your dough rise in a greased bowl in a warmer spot to get that fluffy texture. I usually stick mine near the kettle after school drop-off.

Optional Toppings for Air Fryer Doughnuts:

Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar:

• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make or Shape the Dough

If you’re using yeast dough, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Add egg, butter, salt, and flour. Mix using a dough hook on low speed until a smooth dough ball forms. Let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

For biscuit dough, just pop open the can and get ready to cut!

Roll dough to ½ inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a donut cutter or biscuit cutters to create donut shapes and donut holes.

2. Air Fry the Donuts

Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or canola oil. Place donuts in a single layer (don’t overcrowd!). Air fry at 350°F (about 175°C) for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Charlotte Tip: Add parchment paper under the donuts if your basket sticks.

3. Add the Glaze

While still warm, dip your fluffy doughnuts in vanilla glaze, roll in icing sugar, or drizzle with a rich chocolate glaze. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.

4. Top Like a Queen

• Classic Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Dip doughnuts and let them set.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Brush with melted butter, roll in cinnamon-sugar mix.
• Chocolate Lovers: Melt ½ cup chocolate chips with 1 tbsp butter and dip away!

Variations We’re Obsessed With

• Jam-Filled: Use a piping bag to sneak in your favourite jam post-air fry.
• Maple Moment: Swap glaze vanilla for maple syrup—autumn in a bite!
• Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or almonds after glazing (not a personal fav but for anyone who doesnt have a nut allergy)
• Savoury Vibes: Reduce sugar in the dough, top with garlic butter & cheese.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Doughnuts

• Always use warm milk, not hot.
• Air fryer times may vary—check at 5 mins.
• Best served fresh, but leftovers? Pop back in the air fryer for 1–2 mins.
• Let them cool slightly before glazing so it sticks beautifully.

Let me know next time you try a new glaze, and don’t forget to tag me @adore.charlotte on Instagram or Pinterest with your best air fryer donuts!

Before You Go

These air fryer doughnuts prove that the best treats don’t need a pot of hot oil or a professional bakery setup. Just a great size air fryer, a little time, and a pinch of fun. Whether you’re baking with the kids or just want something sweet after the school run, this is one of those favorite things you’ll come back to again and again.

And if you loved this recipe, join my VIP Freebies Club for more baking inspo, meal templates, and Soft Girl CEO-style slow living. Thank you for supporting my content, my cosy blog, and my mission to romanticise every recipe, one sweet bite at a time.