Oh my gosh, you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up these festive glazed air fryer doughnuts! I discovered this trick last Christmas when I desperately needed a quick treat for unexpected guests. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have warm, fluffy doughnuts that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. The best part? That sweet vanilla glaze dripping down the sides makes them look like they came from a fancy bakery. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them every time you need a little holiday cheer!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Doughnuts
Seriously, these little circles of joy check ALL the boxes. I make them when I need a quick win in the kitchen – and when I want to impress people without actually trying too hard. Here’s why they’re my secret weapon:
Fluffy and Light Texture
That air fryer magic gives these doughnuts the most amazing texture – crisp golden outside, pillowy soft inside. No heavy, greasy feeling like traditional fried doughnuts. Just perfect little clouds that practically melt in your mouth. I swear, the first bite will make your eyes roll back in happiness!
Simple Ingredients
You probably have everything in your pantry right now. The secret? Plain ol’ refrigerated biscuit dough (shhh, no one needs to know). It transforms magically in the air fryer – like when you were a kid playing with playdough, except this version tastes a million times better. Five ingredients total. That’s it. Even my sleep-deprived mom-friends can handle this recipe.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Doughnuts
Okay, gather round because I’m about to let you in on my favorite kitchen shortcut. Here’s all you’ll need for these magical doughnuts:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough – go for the flaky kind, not biscuits!
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (salted works in a pinch)
- 1 cup powdered sugar – packed gently in the measuring cup
- 2 tbsp milk – whole milk makes the creamiest glaze
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – the good stuff if you’ve got it
- Sprinkles (optional but HIGHLY recommended for maximum festive joy)
See? I told you it was simple! Now let’s make some magic happen.
How to Make Air Fryer Doughnuts
Alright, let’s get to the fun part! I promise this is so easy you’ll laugh. Just follow these simple steps, and in no time, you’ll be biting into warm, glazed happiness.
Preparing the Dough
First, pop open that biscuit can – you know that satisfying “whomp” sound means good things are coming! Separate the biscuits and lay them out on a clean surface. Now, for the holes – I use the cap from my vanilla extract bottle (about 1-inch wide), but a small cookie cutter or even the mouth of a shot glass works too. Press straight down – no twisting! – to get clean cuts. Save those little centers because guess what? You’re making doughnut holes too!
Air Frying to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F – this is crucial for that perfect golden color. While it heats, brush both sides of each doughnut with melted butter (hello, flavor town!). Arrange them in a single layer – don’t let them touch or they’ll stick together. Cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch closely after 3 minutes – all air fryers run a bit different. You want them lightly golden, not tan! They’ll puff up beautifully as they cook.
Making the Festive Glaze
While those beauties cook, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more drop by drop until it’s thin enough to dip but thick enough to cling. Pro tip: Let the doughnuts cool just slightly before dipping – too hot and the glaze slides off, too cold and it won’t stick. Dunk, twirl, then lift and let the excess drip off before transferring to a rack. Now’s the time for sprinkles if you’re feeling fancy – toss them on quick before the glaze sets!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Doughnuts
Listen, I’ve made enough batches of these to know all the tricks! Here’s how to guarantee doughnut perfection every single time:
Always use parchment paper in your air fryer basket – it keeps those precious doughnuts from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Dip them in glaze while they’re still warm (not piping hot) for that perfect clingy coating. And don’t skip the butter brush before frying – it’s the secret to that gorgeous golden color. Oh, and if your glaze sets too fast? Just pop ’em back in the air fryer for 15 seconds to get that glossy finish again. Trust me, these little details make all the difference!
Variations for Air Fryer Doughnuts
Who says you have to stop at vanilla glaze? I love playing dress-up with these doughnuts! Try rolling warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar for a cozy twist, or drizzle with melted chocolate for serious decadence. Feeling adventurous? Add orange zest to the glaze or swap sprinkles for crushed candy canes during the holidays. The possibilities are endless!
Serving and Storing Air Fryer Doughnuts
Here’s the hardest part – waiting those agonizing 5 minutes for the glaze to set before devouring them! I usually sneak one anyway (shhh). Leftovers keep surprisingly well in an airtight container for about 2 days – if they last that long. Just pop ’em back in the air fryer for 30 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-fryer magic.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s be real – we’re not eating doughnuts for their health benefits! But if you’re curious, these sweet treats are actually lighter than traditional fried doughnuts thanks to the air fryer magic. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the exact ingredients you use – like whether you go heavy on the sprinkles (no judgment here!). The biscuit dough and glaze do their thing, but hey, everything in moderation, right? Enjoy them guilt-free as an occasional treat – that’s my philosophy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use homemade dough instead of biscuit dough?
Absolutely! While refrigerated biscuit dough is my go-to for speed, homemade dough works beautifully. Just roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness before cutting. The cooking time might vary slightly – start checking at 3 minutes. My grandma’s yeast dough recipe makes incredible air fryer doughnuts if you’ve got the extra time!
Q2. How do I reheat leftover glazed doughnuts?
Easy peasy! Pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 30-45 seconds. The glaze might get a bit melty again (which is actually delicious). Microwave works in a pinch but can make them rubbery – 10 second bursts are key if you go that route.
Q3. Why are my doughnuts sticking to the air fryer basket?
Oh no! Been there. Always use parchment paper or a light spray of oil – that’s my golden rule. If they still stick, your air fryer might be running hot. Try reducing the temperature by 25 degrees next time. And never skip that butter brush – it’s like edible non-stick magic!
Q4. Can I make these ahead for a party?
You bet! Bake the doughnuts up to a day in advance and store unglazed in an airtight container. Right before serving, warm them slightly in the air fryer, then dip in freshly made glaze. They’ll taste just-made and you’ll look like a kitchen rockstar!
Q5. My glaze is too thick/thin – help!
No stress! Too thick? Add milk a teaspoon at a time until it’s dippable. Too thin? Mix in more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time. Remember – it should coat the back of a spoon but still drip off slowly. Pro tip: Make extra glaze because someone (me) always ends up eating it by the spoonful!
Final Thoughts
Go make these doughnuts right now – I promise they’ll become your new favorite trick! Don’t forget to snap a pic and tag me when you do. Happy air frying!
Print
15-Minute Festive Glazed Air Fryer Doughnuts Perfection
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 8 doughnuts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make festive glazed doughnuts quickly with your air fryer. These doughnuts are light, fluffy, and coated in a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Separate biscuit dough and use a small round cutter to make holes in the center.
- Air fry doughnuts in batches for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
- Dip warm doughnuts in glaze and add sprinkles if desired.
- Let glaze set before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use parchment paper in the air fryer for easy cleanup.
- Adjust glaze thickness with more milk or sugar.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American