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This air fryer Nutella donut recipe transforms store-bought biscuit dough into decadent homemade treats in just minutes. The contrast between the golden crispy exterior and warm chocolate hazelnut filling creates an irresistible dessert that tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery.
I discovered this recipe during a late night craving when my kids were begging for donuts but all the shops were closed. The first batch disappeared so quickly that I had to immediately make more. Now its our favorite weekend morning tradition.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: preferably Pillsbury Grands for the fluffiest texture and perfect size
- Melted butter: creates that authentic donut flavor and helps the sugar coating stick
- Nutella: the star of the show providing rich chocolatey hazelnut filling that gets wonderfully melty
- Granulated sugar: for that classic sweet donut coating
- Ground cinnamon: optional but adds wonderful warmth to the sugar coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Place your air fryer at 350°F and allow it to heat for a full 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the moment you add the donuts resulting in that perfect golden exterior.
- Prepare the biscuit dough:
- Take each refrigerated biscuit and gently flatten it with your palms until it forms a disc about 3 inches in diameter. The dough should be thin enough to fold but not so thin it tears when handling.
- Add the Nutella filling:
- Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of Nutella directly into the center of each flattened biscuit. Resist the urge to add more as it will leak during cooking and create a mess in your air fryer.
- Seal the donuts:
- Carefully fold the edges of each biscuit over the Nutella bringing them together at the top. Pinch firmly along the seam to create a tight seal then gently roll between your palms to form a ball shape.
- Brush with butter:
- Using a pastry brush coat each sealed donut ball with a light layer of melted butter. This helps achieve that beautiful golden color and provides something for the sugar to stick to later.
- Air fry to perfection:
- Arrange the prepared donut balls in your air fryer basket making sure they dont touch each other. Cook at 350°F for 7 to 8 minutes checking at the 6 minute mark for doneness as air fryer temperatures can vary.
- Add the sugar coating:
- While the donuts are still warm but safe to handle roll each one in your cinnamon sugar mixture until completely coated. The residual heat helps the sugar adhere perfectly.
- Cool slightly before serving:
- Allow the donuts to rest for 2 to 3 minutes before biting into them. The Nutella inside will be extremely hot and needs time to cool slightly to avoid burning your mouth.
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The real secret to these donuts is the temperature of the Nutella when you add it. I keep mine in the pantry rather than the refrigerator for the perfect consistency. My daughter actually calls these Cloud Bombs because of how light and airy they are compared to regular donuts.
Storage Solutions
These air fryer Nutella donuts taste best when enjoyed fresh while the exterior is still crispy and the filling warm and gooey. However if you need to store leftovers place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh simply pop them back in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 300°F to restore some of the original crispiness.
Flavor Variations
While classic Nutella filling is hard to beat this versatile recipe welcomes creative variations. Try filling with peanut butter cookie butter or jam for different flavor profiles. For a festive touch add colored sprinkles to the sugar coating or drizzle with white chocolate after cooking. My personal favorite twist is adding a tiny spoonful of marshmallow fluff alongside the Nutella for a smores inspired treat.
Perfect Pairings
These warm Nutella donuts pair beautifully with a variety of beverages that balance their sweetness. Serve with a strong cup of coffee for a delightful contrast or alongside cold milk for a classic combination. For an elevated dessert experience try them with a small glass of dessert wine or hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. During summer months these donuts alongside vanilla ice cream create an unforgettable sundae experience.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuits?
Yes, you can use homemade dough, but it will require more preparation time. Ensure the dough is thoroughly sealed around the Nutella to prevent leaking during cooking.
- → What can I substitute for Nutella?
Any chocolate spread works well as a substitute. You can also use peanut butter, cookie butter, jam, or fruit preserves for different flavor variations.
- → How do I prevent the Nutella from leaking during cooking?
Make sure to thoroughly pinch and seal the edges of the dough after adding the Nutella. Avoid overfilling, using only about 1 teaspoon per donut, and shape into a tight ball.
- → Can these donuts be made in a conventional oven?
Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. They won't be quite as crispy as the air fryer version but will still taste delicious.
- → How should I store leftover donuts?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes to restore the crispy exterior.
- → Can I freeze these Nutella donuts?
Yes, freeze fully cooled donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer for best results.