Easy Canned Biscuit Donuts

If you’ve ever woken up craving donuts but didn’t feel like running to the store or tackling a complicated yeast recipe, canned biscuit donuts are your new best friend. They’re ridiculously easy, super quick, and taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Honestly, the first time I tried making them, I couldn’t believe how simple it was. A can of biscuit dough, some oil, and a little creativity with toppings, and you’ve got a batch of warm, fluffy donuts that rival anything from your favorite donut shop.

Of course, my first attempt wasn’t perfect. I overheated the oil, burned the first batch, and nearly smoked out my kitchen. But once I got the hang of it, I realized this was one of the easiest ways to make donuts at home. Here’s everything you need to know to nail it on your first try (and avoid the mistakes I made).

What Are Canned Biscuit Donuts?

Canned biscuit donuts are exactly what they sound like—donuts made from canned biscuit dough. Instead of going through the long process of making yeast dough, you can skip straight to the fun part: frying and decorating. The dough is already prepped and perfectly portioned, making this hack a lifesaver for busy mornings or spontaneous dessert cravings.

These donuts are a fantastic alternative to traditional recipes. Unlike yeast donuts, there’s no need to let the dough rise. Instead, you get instant gratification with minimal effort. And the taste? Absolutely delicious!

Ingredients Needed for Canned Biscuit Donuts

The ingredient list is as simple as it gets. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already.

• Canned biscuit dough: Grand’s Biscuits work great, but any brand will do.
• Vegetable oil: For frying.
• Cinnamon and sugar: For a classic coating.
• Powdered sugar: If you want a lighter, dusted finish.

• Chocolate glaze: Melt chocolate chips with a splash of cream.
• Sprinkles: Because who doesn’t love a colorful topping?
• Fruit fillings or custards: Use a piping bag to fill donuts for a bakery-style treat.

Pro Tip: If you want to elevate the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to your cinnamon-sugar mixture or drizzle your finished donuts with caramel sauce.

Equipment You’ll Need

One of the best things about making canned biscuit donuts is that you don’t need any fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A deep skillet or saucepan for frying.
• Tongs or a slotted spoon to flip and remove donuts.
• A cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
• A biscuit cutter (or even a small bottle cap) to create donut holes.

If you’re nervous about frying, a kitchen thermometer can be a lifesaver. It ensures your oil stays at the ideal temperature—around 350°F—for perfectly cooked donuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by opening the can of biscuits and separating the pieces. Lay them flat on a clean surface and use a biscuit cutter or bottle cap to cut out the centers. Save the cutouts to fry as donut holes—they’re just as delicious and fun to snack on.

Heat about 2 inches of oil in your skillet to 350°F. Test the oil with a small piece of dough—it should sizzle immediately but not burn. Fry the donuts in batches, cooking for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’ll lower the oil temperature and make the donuts greasy.

While the donuts are still warm, coat them in cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar. If you’re going for a glazed finish, let the donuts cool slightly before dipping them into the glaze. For ideas on creative toppings, this guide is a great resource.

Tips for Perfect Canned Biscuit Donuts

Making donuts is easy, but a few small tweaks can make a big difference.

• Keep the oil temperature consistent: Too hot, and your donuts will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
• Don’t overcook: Fry until just golden brown for a soft, fluffy interior.
• Get creative with toppings: From classic glazes to wild combinations like crushed Oreos, the possibilities are endless.

Once, I tried rolling my donuts in crushed graham crackers and drizzling them with marshmallow sauce. It was like a s’mores donut dream come true!

Fun Variations to Try

One of the best things about canned biscuit donuts is how easy it is to customize them. Here are a few fun ideas to get you started:

I once made a batch of Boston Cream-style donuts using instant vanilla pudding and melted chocolate for the topping. They disappeared in seconds at our family brunch.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are best served warm, but they’re delicious at any temperature. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• For breakfast: Pair with coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting start to the day.
• As a dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
• For brunch: Include them in a spread with eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I bake canned biscuit donuts instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. They won’t have the same crispy exterior but will still be delicious.

How do I store leftover donuts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make them soggy.

What’s the best oil for frying donuts?

Vegetable or canola oil works best because they have a neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Can I freeze fried donuts?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-from-the-fryer taste.

Final Thoughts

Canned biscuit donuts are proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something amazing. They’re quick, versatile, and endlessly customizable—perfect for everything from a lazy Sunday breakfast to a last-minute dessert. Have you tried making these at home? What’s your favorite topping or variation? Share your ideas in the comments—I’d love to hear them!