Proper doughnuts usually mean deep frying, but the air fryer makes fluffy, sugar-dusted rings with none of the oil or mess. The quickest version uses ready-made dough. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How long do doughnuts take in an air fryer?
A: Air fry doughnuts at 180°C (360°F) for 5–6 minutes, until golden and risen, then toss in cinnamon sugar.
Q: Can you use ready-made dough?
A: Yes — tinned biscuit or pizza dough shaped into rings is the fastest route to air fryer doughnuts.
Times & temperatures
| Type | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ring doughnuts | 180°C / 360°F | 5–6 min |
| Doughnut holes | 180°C / 360°F | 4–5 min |
| Filled (after cooking) | 180°C / 360°F | 6–7 min |
The recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Doughnuts
Ingredients
- 1 tin biscuit/pizza dough (or homemade)
- 1 tsp oil spray
- 30g caster sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Method
- Shape dough into rings; spray lightly with oil.
- Air fry at 180°C (360°F) for 5–6 minutes.
- Toss warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar.
- Serve straight away.
Tips
- Sugar while warm so it sticks.
- Don't overcrowd — they puff as they cook.
- Fill after cooking with jam or custard for filled doughnuts.
Frequently asked questions
Can you make doughnuts in an air fryer?
Yes — shape dough into rings and air fry at 180°C for 5–6 minutes, then toss in cinnamon sugar. No deep frying needed.
Can you use tinned dough for air fryer doughnuts?
Yes — tinned biscuit or pizza dough shaped into rings is the quickest method and puffs up beautifully.
Are air fryer doughnuts healthier?
They use far less oil than deep-fried doughnuts, so they're lighter, though still a sweet treat to enjoy in moderation.