8 Best Deep Fryers for Donuts 2026

The Cuisinart CDF-200P1 is a donut-deploying dynamo, engineered for home bakers who demand precision and consistency. With its 1800-watt immersion heating element, this fryer ramps up to temperature in under 8 minutes and recovers heat swiftly between batches—critical when frying a dozen glazed rings in succession. The 4-quart oil capacity comfortably handles up to 2.3 pounds of food, making it ideal for medium-sized donut runs without overcrowding, which can lead to greasy, uneven results. Its stainless steel construction and enamel-coated removable pot not only ensure durability but also make post-fry cleanup far less of a chore than stovetop alternatives.

In real-world testing, the Cuisinart maintained remarkably stable oil temperatures even when adding cold, batter-dipped donuts, thanks to the high-wattage heater submerged directly in the oil. The cool-touch handle on the included basket allows safe, controlled lowering and lifting—essential when working with hot oil and delicate, puffed dough. While it lacks a digital timer or viewing window, the fryer performs exceptionally on core tasks: heating evenly across the tank and minimizing hot spots. That said, it’s best suited for intermittent use; continuous high-volume frying (like for a pop-up donut stand) will push its limits.

Compared to the budget-focused Amazon Basics model, the Cuisinart delivers superior heat control and build quality, making it a smarter investment for donut enthusiasts. While the Presto Big Kettle offers more versatility, it doesn’t match the Cuisinart’s precision frying environment. This unit is perfect for home bakers who prioritize consistent, golden-brown results over multi-functionality. It outperforms similarly sized models with faster recovery and better temperature stability, punching above its weight in donut-specific performance.

The Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt fryer is a no-frills entry point into home deep frying that doesn’t skimp on essential functionality. Its 1500-watt heating system delivers solid performance for small to medium batches, bringing oil to 350°F in about 10 minutes—perfect for a weekend donut experiment without the commitment of a premium model. The adjustable thermostat (265°F–375°F) gives users control over browning, crucial when frying cake or yeast donuts that demand precise heat. Add in the transparent viewing window, and you’ve got a fryer that lets you monitor donut expansion and color without lifting the lid and losing heat.

During testing, the fryer handled two to three donuts at a time with consistent results, though larger batches caused noticeable temperature drops that extended cook time and led to slightly oilier outcomes. The mesh basket with draining hooks efficiently sheds excess oil, contributing to crispier exteriors. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and wipes clean easily, while the compact footprint fits neatly on most countertops. However, the 3.0L oil capacity limits its usefulness for big gatherings, and the plastic lid feels less robust than competitors’.

When stacked against the Cuisinart CDF-200P1, this model trades raw power and build quality for affordability and simplicity. It’s not built for marathon frying sessions, but for occasional donut makers or families craving fries and wings, it’s a sensible, space-saving solution. It lacks advanced features like oil filtration or a removable pot, but for beginners or infrequent users, it delivers solid value without complexity. It’s less powerful than the Chefman or T-fal, but holds its own in basic performance at a lower cost.

The Presto 8-Quart Big Kettle is a kitchen workhorse reborn, transforming from a classic fryer into a multi-role cooking powerhouse that excels beyond donuts. With a massive 8-quart nonstick-coated cavity, it can deep fry a full dozen donuts in one go without crowding—something few dedicated fryers can match. The 60% larger capacity than standard models makes it ideal for holiday batches or family-sized meals, and the included fry/steam basket lifts cleanly for draining or doubles as a steamer insert. Its Control Master heat control isn’t digitally precise, but it maintains a stable frying zone when set correctly, making it surprisingly effective for donuts despite not being a specialty unit.

In practice, the Presto heats more slowly than immersion-element fryers, taking nearly 15 minutes to reach frying temps, and temperature recovery lags after adding food. However, the cast aluminum base ensures even heat distribution, minimizing cold spots that can lead to soggy centers. The nonstick interior is a game-changer for cleanup—just wipe or toss it in the dishwasher (once the control is removed). While it lacks a viewing window or safety lock, the basket’s side-hook design allows safe draining without lifting hot oil. It’s not the fastest or safest donut fryer, but its versatility is unmatched in this lineup.

Compared to the ROVSUN commercial models, the Presto is less powerful but far more flexible, serving as a steamer, roaster, and fryer. It’s a smarter pick than the Cuisinart for users who fry donuts occasionally but cook more often. While it doesn’t offer restaurant-grade speed, it delivers exceptional value for multi-use kitchens. It outshines single-function fryers when space and budget are tight, trading precision for adaptability in a way no other model here does.

The ROVSUN 22.8QT double fryer is a commercial-grade beast built for high-volume output, making it the ultimate choice for serious donut makers or small food businesses. Its dual 3400-watt heating system powers two independent tanks, each with separate temperature controls (140°F–392°F), allowing you to fry donuts in one vat while crisping chicken in the other—no flavor transfer, no downtime. The total 21.6L capacity and removable stainless steel tanks make it easy to switch oils or clean between batches, while the U-shaped heating tubes ensure even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots that ruin delicate dough.

Real-world use confirms this fryer’s industrial reliability: it maintains temperature under heavy loads, recovers quickly, and handles continuous frying with ease. Each 4.2QT basket is large enough for 6–8 standard donuts, and the plastic-handled design prevents burns during repeated use. The splash-resistant lids enhance safety, and the thickened steel construction resists dents and warping. However, it demands a 16-amp outlet, so standard kitchen circuits may not support it—this isn’t a plug-and-play home appliance. It’s overkill for small families but perfect for catering, pop-ups, or bakeries.

Against the single-tank ROVSUN 11.4QT model, this dual version doubles productivity with only a modest footprint increase. While the All-Clad offers better oil management for home users, this model dominates in throughput and control. It’s the clear leader for commercial donut production, offering unmatched power and flexibility. It costs more and needs special electrical support, but for those frying at scale, it delivers pro-level performance without a pro-only price tag.

The Chefman 4.5L fryer is a budget-savvy performer that punches above its price with restaurant-inspired features in a compact design. Its 1700-watt heating element delivers rapid heat-up and solid recovery, rivaling more expensive models, while the XL 4.5-liter capacity can handle a full batch of 8–10 donuts—ideal for family breakfasts or weekend treats. The adjustable temperature dial and built-in timer give precise control, eliminating guesswork, and the removable oil container simplifies storage and cleanup. Add in the magnetic breakaway cord, and you’ve got a surprisingly safe, thoughtful design for its class.

Testing revealed consistent frying results across multiple donut batches, with minimal oil absorption thanks to the clip-on basket strainer that drains excess efficiently. The viewing window with lid lets you monitor donuts without releasing heat, maintaining stable oil temps. While the stainless steel body feels lightweight compared to premium models, it’s durable enough for regular home use. The air filter helps reduce odors—rare at this price—but doesn’t eliminate them entirely. It’s not built for all-day use, but for weekly frying, it’s remarkably capable.

Next to the Amazon Basics, the Chefman offers more capacity, a timer, and better safety features, making it the smarter budget buy. It lacks the oil filtration of the T-fal or All-Clad, but for cost-conscious donut lovers, it delivers the essentials with confidence. It’s the best value for frequent home frying, blending performance and practicality in a way few budget fryers manage. It doesn’t match the Cuisinart’s refinement, but it offers more features for less, making it a standout in the entry-to-mid tier.

The ROVSUN 11.4QT fryer is a mid-tier commercial performer that brings pro-level frying within reach of serious home cooks and small vendors. Its 2500-watt heating system delivers fast heat-up and strong recovery, maintaining stable temps between 140°F and 392°F, perfect for delicate donuts that need precise, even frying. The 10.8L tank holds enough oil for multiple batches without refilling, and the 4.2QT basket accommodates up to 8 donuts per fry—ideal for weekend markets or family events. The stainless steel construction and detachable tank make cleaning straightforward, while the integrated handles on the oil pot simplify removal and pouring.

In use, this fryer handles sustained frying better than home models, recovering temperature quickly after loading and minimizing oil degradation over time. The plastic-handled basket and splash lid enhance safety, reducing burn risks during repetitive use. While it lacks a viewing window or digital controls, the simple knob interface is reliable and intuitive. It’s quieter than expected and fits comfortably on most countertops, though it still requires significant space. It’s not as powerful as the dual-tank ROVSUN, but for single-vat performance, it’s one of the most balanced options here.

Compared to the Presto Big Kettle, this model heats faster, recovers better, and is built for repeated use, though it lacks multi-cooking functions. Against the Chefman, it offers greater durability and heat output for frequent frying. It’s the ideal bridge between home and commercial, delivering pro-style results without the footprint or cost of larger units. It outperforms similarly priced models in consistency and build, making it the top pick for those who fry donuts regularly but don’t need dual tanks.

The All-Clad Electric Deep Fryer is the pinnacle of home frying refinement, combining precision engineering with luxury materials for a donut-frying experience that feels almost professional. Its patented oil filtration system is a game-changer: after frying, you can filter and store oil inside the unit, reducing waste, cost, and kitchen odor—a rare feature even in high-end models. The 3.5-liter capacity handles 2.65 pounds of food, enough for a family-sized donut batch, while the 300°F–375°F temp range ensures golden, non-greasy results every time. The cool-touch handles, locking lid, and auto shut-off make it one of the safest options here, ideal for households with kids.

In real-world testing, the temperature stability was exceptional, with minimal fluctuation even when adding cold dough. The dishwasher-safe components—basket, bowl, lid, oil box—make cleanup effortless, a major win for sticky donut glaze sessions. While it lacks a timer or viewing window, the build quality is unmatched: every hinge, knob, and surface feels solid and well-engineered. It heats slightly slower than 1700W immersion models but maintains consistency superbly. It’s best for precision-focused home chefs who value cleanliness and longevity over raw speed.

Versus the T-fal, the All-Clad offers similar filtration but superior materials and fit/finish, justifying its premium positioning. It’s not as large as the ROVSUN models, but it excels in ease of use and maintenance. For home users who fry donuts occasionally but demand perfection, it’s the ultimate choice. It delivers restaurant-quality results with domestic convenience, outperforming others in oil management and safety while commanding respect through sheer craftsmanship.

The T-fal 3.5L Deep Fryer is a smartly engineered home companion that balances performance, safety, and convenience for the everyday donut maker. Its advanced oil filtration system automatically channels used oil into a sealed container, reducing mess and extending oil life—a standout feature for health-conscious or budget-aware users. The digital timer and adjustable thermostat (300°F–375°F) allow precise control, ensuring donuts fry to perfection without overcooking. With a 3.5L capacity and 2.65 lb food load, it’s sized perfectly for family meals or small gatherings, and the large viewing window lets you monitor donuts in real time without lifting the lid.

During testing, the T-fal maintained excellent temperature consistency and recovered quickly after adding food, thanks to its 1700-watt power and insulated design. The locking lid and cool-touch handles enhance safety, while the dishwasher-safe components make post-fry cleanup a breeze. It’s slightly heavier than basic models but feels solid and well-built. While it doesn’t match the All-Clad’s premium feel, it delivers nearly identical functionality at a more accessible price point. It’s optimized for home use, where convenience and safety matter most.

Compared to the Chefman, the T-fal offers superior oil management and a digital timer, making it a better long-term investment. Against the Cuisinart, it adds filtration and a viewing window—features serious home fryers will appreciate. It’s the best all-around pick for regular home donut frying, blending innovation, safety, and ease of use in one cohesive package. It doesn’t have the power of commercial units, but for household frying, it strikes the ideal balance of features and performance.