There’s nothing quite like a warm cinnamon sugar donut — soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and coated in sweet, buttery cinnamon goodness. The best part? You don’t need deep frying to make them.
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts deliver that classic bakery-style texture with far less oil and mess. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat with coffee.
If you love sweet air fryer treats like Air Fryer Italian Zeppole or Air Fryer Chocolate Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies, these cinnamon sugar donuts are another must-make favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Donuts
- No deep frying required
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Soft, fluffy texture
- Perfect cinnamon sugar coating
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/3 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
1. Make the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
2. Shape the Donuts
Lightly flour your surface and roll dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Cut into donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small).
You can also shape into donut holes if preferred.
3. Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place donuts in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.
Air fry for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through.
4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While still warm, brush donuts with melted butter.
In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
Roll donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Serve warm for best texture.
Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Don’t overcrowd the basket
- Keep dough slightly soft for fluffier texture
- Coat while warm so sugar sticks well
- Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness
Flavor Variations
Maple Cinnamon
Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the dough.
Apple Pie Donuts
Add 1 tablespoon finely grated apple and a pinch of nutmeg.
Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle melted chocolate over coated donuts.
Stuffed Donut Holes
Fill with Nutella or jam after cooking.
If you love creative dessert ideas, you might also enjoy Air Fryer Pistachio Cream Cheese Rolls for another sweet air fryer treat.
Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Air fry at 300°F for 2–3 minutes to restore softness.
Freezing: Freeze without coating for up to 1 month. Reheat and coat fresh before serving.
FAQs
Can I use biscuit dough?
Yes. Store-bought biscuit dough works well for a quick shortcut version.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
Why are my donuts dense?
Overmixing the dough can make them dense. Mix just until combined.
Can I bake these instead?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
Can I make donut holes instead of full donuts?
Absolutely. Reduce cooking time slightly to 4–5 minutes.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts prove that you don’t need deep frying to enjoy soft, fluffy, bakery-style donuts at home. With a golden exterior, tender interior, and that irresistible cinnamon sugar coating, these donuts are simple yet incredibly satisfying. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy weekend treat, they’re quick to make and guaranteed to disappear fast. The air fryer keeps them light, less greasy, and perfectly cooked every time — making this recipe a go-to for sweet cravings.
