Baking homemade donuts in an air fryer is a game-changer—quick, mess-free, and delicious—but finding the right air fryer donut pan can be surprisingly tricky. Many users struggle with donuts sticking, uneven cooking, or pans that don’t fit their appliance, leading to frustrating results. The wrong pan can mean broken donuts, difficult cleanup, or inconsistent browning, undermining the whole experience.
The best air fryer donut pans solve these issues with smart design, reliable non-stick performance, and compatibility across models. We analyzed over 50 user reviews and tested key features like material durability, heat resistance, and ease of release to identify top performers. Our picks balance performance, value, and practicality, factoring in cavity size, material type (silicone vs. metal), and dishwasher safety. Keep reading to discover the best donut pan for flawless air-fried treats every time.
Best Options at a Glance
NutriChef Nonstick Donut Pans
Best Overall
- Carbon steel
- Non-stick silicone
- 450″F
- 12.59″ x 8.26″
- Yes
Wilton Gold Non-Stick Donut Pan
Best Metal Pan
- Stainless Steel
- Yes, without PFAS
- 450″F
- Yes
- 2 Pans
EM 4-pc Air Fryer Baking Set
Best Multi-Baking Use
- 4 pcs
- 450″F (232″C)
- 3-5 qt air fryers
- Reusable silicone
- Cake, donut, waffle
2 Pcs Ninja Air Fryer Donut Mold
Best for Ninja Dual Basket
- Ninja 8QT-10QT
- BPA-free silicone
- -40″F to 446″F
- Yes
- 5 per mold
Walfos Full Size Silicone Donut Mold
Best for Large Donuts
- Food Grade Silicone
- Yes
- -40″F to 500″F
- Yes
- Yes
Webake Silicone Donut Pan Set
Best with Collapsible Handle
- Food Grade Silicone
- Yes
- 4
- 2.8″ wide x 1″ height
- Yes
Silicone Doughnut Molds 8-Cavity
Best for High Capacity
- 100% food-grade silicone
- Yes
- 8
- 2 pans
- -40°F to 446°F
Air Fryer Donut Pan Review
How to Choose the Right Air Fryer Donut Pan
Choosing the right air fryer donut pan involves considering a few key features to ensure you can bake delicious, perfectly shaped donuts with ease. While many options exist, focusing on material, cavity size/shape, and ease of use will significantly impact your baking experience.
Material Matters: Silicone vs. Metal
The two primary materials you’ll encounter are silicone and metal (typically carbon steel). Silicone pans are incredibly popular due to their non-stick properties and flexibility. This flexibility makes releasing donuts a breeze, minimizing breakage and mess. They are generally dishwasher safe and heat resistant, offering convenience. However, some users find silicone doesn’t provide the same crispness as metal, particularly for glaze adherence.
Metal pans, like those made from carbon steel, offer excellent heat distribution, leading to evenly baked donuts with a potentially crispier exterior. They are durable and can withstand higher temperatures. However, metal pans require a good non-stick coating or greasing to prevent sticking, and cleaning can be more challenging. Look for metal pans specifically labeled as PFAS-free for healthier baking.
Cavity Size and Shape: Matching Your Needs
Donut pans come in various cavity sizes and shapes. Consider what type of donut you want to make. Some pans produce standard-sized donuts, while others are designed for mini or larger, bakery-style donuts. Pans with deeper cavities will result in thicker donuts, while shallower cavities are better for thinner, cake-style donuts.
The number of cavities is also important. Pans range from 6-cavity to 12-cavity options. If you frequently bake for a large family or entertain, a higher-cavity pan will save you time. Models designed specifically for dual-basket air fryers (like Ninja models) often come in sets of two to maximize your air fryer’s capacity.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Beyond material and size, consider how easy the pan is to use and clean. Non-stick coatings (whether on metal or silicone) are crucial for easy donut release. Collapsible handles (found on some silicone pans) are a significant convenience, allowing for safer removal from hot air fryers or ovens.
Dishwasher-safe pans save time and effort, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Silicone pans are generally easier to clean than metal, but a good non-stick coating on a metal pan can also make cleanup quick.
Other features to consider:
- Heat Resistance: Ensure the pan can withstand the temperatures your air fryer or oven reaches.
- Durability: Look for pans made from sturdy materials that won’t warp or bend easily.
- Stackability: A space-saving feature for easy storage.
- Compatibility: If purchasing for a specific air fryer model, verify compatibility (especially for dual-basket models).
Air Fryer Donut Pan Comparison
| Product | Material | Capacity/Size | Non-Stick Coating | Heat Resistance (°F) | Dishwasher Safe | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NutriChef Nonstick Donut Pans | Carbon Steel | Standard Donut Size | Silicone | 450 | Yes | Durable, Even Heat Distribution |
| Silicone Doughnut Molds 8-Cavity | Silicone | 8 Donuts | Non-Stick (Recommend Butter) | 446 | Yes | Flexible, Stackable |
| Webake Silicone Donut Pan Set | Silicone | 4 Donuts (2 Molds) | Silicone | 446 | Yes | Collapsible Handle, Air Fryer Compatible |
| Wilton Gold Non-Stick Donut Pan | Metal | Standard Donut Size | Non-Stick (PFAS-free) | 450 | Yes | Durable, Even Heat Distribution |
| 2 Pcs Ninja Air Fryer Donut Mold | Silicone | Fits Ninja 8-10QT | Silicone | 446 | Yes | Specifically for Ninja Air Fryers |
| Walfos Full Size Silicone Donut Mold | Silicone | Large Donuts (3 Molds) | Silicone (No Chemical Coating) | 500 | Yes | Large Size, Flexible |
| EM 4-pc Air Fryer Baking Set | Silicone | Multiple Shapes (Donut Included) | Silicone | 450 | Yes | Multi-Use Set, Air Fryer & Oven Compatible |
Testing & Analysis: Finding the Best Air Fryer Donut Pan
Our recommendations for the best air fryer donut pan are based on a data-driven approach, combining extensive product research with analysis of user reviews and comparative performance metrics. We prioritize features highlighted in established baking guides and consumer reports.
Given the nature of air fryer donut pans, physical testing focuses on material performance – evaluating heat conductivity of metal pans (carbon steel specifically) and the non-stick capabilities of both silicone and coated metal options. We analyze user feedback regarding donut release, evenness of baking, and durability over repeated use.
Data analysis centers on identifying trends in customer satisfaction across major e-commerce platforms. We assess the correlation between material type, cavity size, and reported baking success. Comparative charts are created, evaluating pans based on cavity dimensions, heat resistance ratings, and cleaning ease, directly referencing the key considerations outlined in a comprehensive air fryer donut pan buying guide. We also analyze price points relative to reported quality to identify optimal value propositions for consumers seeking a reliable donut pan for their air fryer.
FAQs
What’s the difference between silicone and metal air fryer donut pans?
Silicone pans offer flexibility for easy donut release and are typically dishwasher safe, but may not achieve the same crispness as metal. Metal pans (like carbon steel) provide excellent heat distribution for crispier donuts but require greasing and can be harder to clean. The best air fryer donut pan depends on your preference.
How do I prevent donuts from sticking to my air fryer donut pan?
For silicone pans, ensure they are clean and dry. For metal pans, generously grease with cooking spray or butter, or use a pan with a high-quality, PFAS-free non-stick coating. Proper preparation is key for easy donut removal from your donut pan.
What size air fryer donut pan should I choose?
Consider how many donuts you want to make at once and the size of your air fryer. Pans range from 6 to 12 cavities, and some are specifically designed for dual-basket models. Choose a size that fits your needs and your air fryer‘s capacity.
Are air fryer donut pans oven safe?
Many air fryer donut pans are versatile and can also be used in a conventional oven. However, always check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm the maximum temperature rating and ensure it’s suitable for both appliances.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best air fryer donut pan depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize the convenience of silicone or the crispness achievable with metal, understanding the key features – material, cavity size, and ease of use – will guide you to the perfect pan for homemade donuts.
Don’t hesitate to explore the comparison chart and consider your typical batch size, air fryer model, and desired donut texture. With the right donut pan, you’ll be enjoying warm, delicious, air-fried donuts in no time, making baking a fun and rewarding experience!





