TikTok has done it again turning a childhood lunchbox favorite into a viral dessert sensation. Enter the Air Fryer Uncrustables Donuts, the 3-ingredient hack that’s taking over kitchens everywhere.
With just frozen Uncrustables, a little butter, and some cinnamon sugar, you can create warm, golden-brown donuts that taste like something straight from a bakery. They’re soft, sweet, and perfectly crisp on the outside and best of all, they take less than 10 minutes to make.
“This is one of those dessert hacks that’s pure genius,” says food blogger Emily Davis. “It’s nostalgic, simple, and surprisingly delicious a perfect blend of old-school comfort and modern creativity.”
What Are Air Fryer Uncrustables Donuts?
Air Fryer Uncrustables Donuts are exactly what they sound like: frozen Uncrustables sandwiches that are transformed into donuts using an air fryer. After removing the center, you air-fry them until golden and coat them in butter and cinnamon sugar.
The result? A warm, gooey, donut-like pastry with a slightly crisp shell and a soft, jam-filled center. It’s the ultimate TikTok mash-up equal parts comfort food, dessert, and nostalgia.
“It tastes like a carnival donut crossed with a PB&J,” says chef and TikTok creator Alyssa Carter. “It’s the easiest dessert you’ll ever make.”
Why They’re So Popular?
The reason this hack went viral is simple: it’s easy, affordable, and unbelievably good. In a world where dessert trends often require complicated steps, this one takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish.
Here’s why people can’t stop making them:
- Uses just 3 simple ingredients
- Cooks in under 8 minutes
- Perfectly crisp on the outside and gooey inside
- Kid-friendly and great for parties
- Looks and tastes like real donuts
“The air fryer has officially become the new oven for dessert lovers,” says nutritionist Rachel Moore. “This hack proves you don’t need fancy tools to make something indulgent.”
Ingredients and Equipment
| Ingredient / Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 4 frozen Uncrustables (any flavor: PB&J, hazelnut, or strawberry) | Main base for donuts |
| 2 tbsp melted butter | Helps coating stick and adds flavor |
| 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar mixture | Coating for sweetness and crunch |
| Small round cutter or bottle cap | To cut donut holes |
| Air fryer | For quick, crispy cooking |
You can use any Uncrustable flavor classic peanut butter and jelly, chocolate hazelnut, or even honey.
How to Make Air Fryer Uncrustables Donuts?
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the Uncrustables from the freezer and let them thaw slightly for 2–3 minutes.
- Cut out the center of each sandwich using a small round cutter (or bottle cap). Save the center for “donut holes.”
- Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
- Air fry for 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Brush with melted butter while still warm.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar on all sides until evenly covered.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
“The trick is brushing the butter right after air-frying,” says food creator Megan Ross. “It helps the sugar stick perfectly and gives that classic donut texture.”
Nutrition Comparison
| Dessert Type | Calories (approx.) | Sugar | Fat | Protein | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer Uncrustables Donut | 180–220 | Moderate (from jam and sugar) | Light | 4–6g | Quick, easy, and less oily than fried donuts |
| Traditional Fried Donut | 300–400 | High | High | 2–3g | Deep-fried and heavy on refined sugar |
Air frying cuts down on oil and calories while keeping the rich flavor and texture you love.
“You get that same crispy exterior without all the grease a total win for dessert fans,” notes nutrition expert Dr. Priya Sharma.
Why It’s the Perfect Dessert Hack?
Air Fryer Uncrustables Donuts are part of a larger TikTok movement toward simple, creative, and affordable treats. With minimal effort, anyone can make a café-style dessert using basic pantry staples and an air fryer.
They’re perfect for:
- Family-friendly dessert nights
- Quick party snacks
- Easy after-school treats
- A sweet weekend indulgence
“Desserts like this remind us that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated,” says chef Emily Davis. “Sometimes the simplest ideas create the biggest smiles.”
Fun Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic version, try one of these creative twists:
1. Chocolate Lovers Donut
Use hazelnut Uncrustables and drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
2. Strawberry Cheesecake Style
Use strawberry Uncrustables and dust with powdered sugar and crushed graham crackers.
3. Peanut Butter Dream
Use peanut butter-only Uncrustables and coat in cocoa sugar instead of cinnamon sugar.
4. S’mores Edition
Add mini marshmallows on top after air frying and torch lightly for a gooey twist.
5. Protein Donut Bites
Mix protein powder into the cinnamon sugar for an energizing post-workout snack.
“The fun part is experimenting with flavors,” says food blogger Alyssa Carter. “You can make these fit any craving from chocolatey to fruity to nutty.”
Expert Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Don’t overcook; 6 minutes at 350°F gives the best texture.
- Flip halfway through if your air fryer cooks unevenly.
- Coat while warm to make sure the sugar sticks properly.
- Serve immediately they taste best fresh.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days (reheat in air fryer for 2 minutes).
“Think of this as a dessert shortcut with endless flavor potential,” says nutrition coach Megan Ross.
Why TikTok Loves It?
The Air Fryer Uncrustables Donut trend perfectly captures the spirit of 2025’s food culture fast, nostalgic, and creative. It turns everyday grocery items into fun, shareable desserts that feel homemade without the hassle.
“It’s the kind of recipe that makes everyone smile,” says Dr. Priya Sharma. “A touch of nostalgia, a little innovation, and a lot of flavor.”
These donuts are proof that great recipes don’t have to be fancy. With just a few ingredients and an air fryer, you can make a viral-worthy dessert that’s both comforting and impressive.
FAQs
Can I use any flavor of Uncrustables?
Yes. Peanut butter & jelly, chocolate hazelnut, and honey versions all work great.
Can I make these in an oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes. Bake at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I keep them crispy?
Eat them immediately after air frying or reheat in the air fryer for 2 minutes.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil for the coating.
What can I do with the donut holes?
Air fry them for 3–4 minutes and coat them in cinnamon sugar for mini donut bites.