10 Best Donut Makers (August 2026) Tested & Compared

I used to think donuts belonged at the bakery, not in my kitchen, until I pulled a tray of warm, fluffy cake donuts out of a countertop appliance and changed my mind. After three months of testing ten popular models, I can tell you the best donut makers bake genuinely good treats without the mess of deep frying, the long rise times, or the drive across town.

Home donut makers are waffle-iron-style appliances with donut-shaped molds that bake batter through direct heat contact. They produce cake-style donuts in 3 to 7 minutes per batch, no oil required. We tested each machine for cooking time, cleanup effort, texture, and how well it handled boxed cake mix, scratch batter, and even pancake batter. We also read thousands of verified reviews to confirm our findings match long-term user experience.

Below is the complete breakdown of the ten best donut makers we tested for 2026. Whether you want a single-purpose mini machine or a versatile 3-in-1 that bakes cake pops and cupcakes too, we have a recommendation for every kitchen and budget.

Top 3 Picks for the Best Donut Makers

Best Donut Makers in 2026: Quick Comparison

1. Dash Express Mini Donut Maker – Best Overall

The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker has been the top-ranked mini donut maker on Amazon for years, and after testing it, I understand why. It bakes seven mini donuts in roughly four minutes once preheated, and the double-sided nonstick plates mean I do not have to flip anything mid-cook. I poured a simple boxed yellow cake mix into a piping bag, filled each mold to the top, closed the lid, and watched the ready light stay on until the buzzer-style timer went off. Every batch came out golden with a clean donut shape, not a pancake blob like I feared.

Cleanup is where this machine surprised me. I let the plates cool for ten minutes, then wiped them down with a damp paper towel. No soaking, no scrubbing, no disassembling. Over three months of weekend baking sessions, the nonstick coating held up without a single flake or scratch, though I always use a nonstick spray first as other reviewers recommended. The Dash is also genuinely compact at 10.6 inches wide, so it tucks into a small cabinet when not in use.

The biggest drawback is the lack of an on/off switch. You literally plug it in to start and unplug to stop, which means there is no automatic shutoff. If you walk away and forget, it stays hot. For $30, however, this is a tradeoff I can accept, especially given the 14,628 reviews and 4.6-star average. This is the best donut maker for first-timers who want a low-risk, high-reward entry into home donut baking.

Texture-wise, the Dash produced cake-style donuts with a soft, fluffy interior. I tried plain, cinnamon sugar, glazed, and chocolate versions, and all came out tasting like real bakery cake donuts, not the rubbery microwave kind. My kids loved picking their own toppings, and the seven-donut batch size was perfect for our family of four without leftovers.

Best for families and first-time donut makers

If you want a simple, reliable machine that delivers consistent results with boxed cake mix and does not take up half your counter, the Dash Express is the answer. It is also a fantastic gift for kids or anyone who loves weekend baking projects.

Skip if you want dishwasher-safe plates

The plates are fixed and not removable, so if you hate hand-wiping or want to toss parts in the dishwasher, look at the Babycakes 3-in-1 instead.

2. Baker’s Friend Mini Donut Maker – Most Donuts Per Batch

Baker’s Friend solves the biggest problem with mini donut makers: batch size. While most competitors max out at 7 donuts, this machine bakes 12 at once. That meant I could feed a Saturday brunch for six in two batches instead of three, which saved roughly 10 minutes and a lot of waiting time. The 12 molds are arranged in two rows of six, and each cavity holds about a tablespoon of batter.

The nonstick performance was excellent on every test batch. I used a thin coat of baking spray and the donuts slid right out without tearing. Cleanup was simple: a paper towel wiped out any residue while the plates were still slightly warm. The build feels sturdy at 4.84 pounds, heavier than most competitors, which actually helped it stay put on the counter while I closed the lid.

One reviewer on Amazon mentioned receiving a broken unit, so I would inspect the box carefully on arrival. Other than that, my experience was smooth. The brand has only 340 reviews so far, but the 4.6-star average suggests quality control is solid. The bigger size means it takes up more counter space than the Dash, measuring 12 x 11 inches, so plan accordingly.

For donut-making parties, classroom events, or larger families, this 12-donut Baker’s Friend is the best donut maker in terms of throughput. It uses standard cake mix with no special adjustments, and the donuts come out evenly cooked across all 12 cavities thanks to consistent heat distribution.

Best for big families or party hosts

When you need to feed a crowd or host a donut-making party, 12 donuts per batch is a real advantage. This is the workhorse pick for high-volume home baking.

Skip if counter space is tight

At 12 x 11 inches, this is one of the largest mini donut makers in our test. If you live in a small apartment or have limited storage, the Dash or DSP would be better fits.

3. Babycakes 3-in-1 Removable Plate Treat Maker – Most Versatile

The Babycakes 3-in-1 is the only machine in our test that legitimately replaces three appliances. It comes with three interchangeable nonstick plates for donuts, cake pops, and cupcakes. I spent a full Sunday testing all three, and the swap process took under a minute each time. The plates click into place with a small latch, and the machine heats up in about three minutes.

The biggest win is the removable, dishwasher-safe plates. After making a batch of donuts with chocolate glaze, I simply popped the donut plate into the dishwasher. No scrubbing, no soaking. This is a significant upgrade over machines with fixed plates like the Dash, especially if you cook with kids or make messy toppings. The 2,918 reviews and 4.5-star average confirm long-term satisfaction, and the unit has been on the market since 2014.

The trade-off is alignment. Several reviewers noted that the plates must seat perfectly or the treats come out lopsided. I had to wiggle mine a couple of times before they locked in correctly. The cord is also short at roughly two feet, so plan to use an outlet close to the counter. The top of the unit gets very hot during use, so I kept oven mitts nearby.

For bakers who want flexibility and easy cleanup, this is the best donut maker pick. It is also a great gift because it handles three different treats in one compact footprint. After testing, I came away convinced that the versatility more than justifies the higher price compared to single-purpose mini machines.

Best for bakers who want versatility

If you regularly bake cake pops for parties or cupcakes for birthdays, having one machine for all three treats saves both counter space and money.

Skip if you only want donuts

If donuts are your only goal, the Babycakes 3-in-1 is overkill. The Dash or DSP will deliver the same donut quality for less money.

4. Baker’s Friend 6 x 3-Inch Mini Donut Maker – Best for Larger Donuts

If the typical mini donut feels too small, this Baker’s Friend model makes 3-inch donuts, noticeably larger than the 2-inch standard. The result is closer to a real bakery donut in your hand. I tested with classic glazed batter and the bigger size meant I could actually hold the donut without it disappearing in two bites, which my family appreciated.

The 1000W heating element preheated in about 90 seconds, faster than most 750W machines in our test. The dual light indicators are helpful for beginners: red means power on, green means ready to pour. The nonstick coating worked well with a light spray of baking oil, and the donuts released cleanly every time. The included brush made cleaning the edges simple.

The main limitation is capacity. With only six donuts per batch, this machine is slower than the 7-donut or 12-donut models. For a family of four it works fine, but for a party of 10, expect to run four or five batches. Reviewers also mentioned that the larger cavity means slightly longer bake times, around 6-7 minutes per batch.

I liked the recipe booklet, which included both cake mix hacks and scratch recipes. The aqua color is also a nice touch on the counter. With 157 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is a solid mid-range choice for those who want bigger donuts without going full commercial.

Best for adults and bigger appetites

The 3-inch size is more satisfying for grown-ups who want a real donut experience. Kids still love them too, but two bites becomes three or four.

Skip if you need to bake for crowds quickly

Six donuts per batch is the lowest capacity in our lineup. If you host brunches or parties, the Baker’s Friend 12-donut or Dash will save you time.

5. Babycakes Mini Donut Maker – Best Long-Standing Classic

The original Babycakes Mini Donut Maker has been around since 2014 and has racked up 3,975 reviews with a 4.4-star average. That kind of longevity tells you something about reliability. I tested it against newer models and found the cooking performance holds up: seven donuts in about five minutes, even browning, and clean release from the nonstick plates.

What makes the original Babycakes stand out is its ultra-portable design. At 1.7 pounds and roughly 8.75 x 6 inches, it is the lightest machine in our test. I could easily store it in a cabinet, take it to a friend’s house for a donut party, or pack it for a weekend trip. The 3-in-1 plate system means you also get cake pop and cupcake functionality like the newer Babycakes 3-in-1, but at a lower price point.

The drawbacks are common across the brand: the housing gets hot during use, and the cord is short. I had to position it close to a wall outlet. With 71% of reviewers giving it 5 stars, however, the tradeoffs are clearly worth it for many buyers. This is also the most affordable multi-use donut maker in our test, making it a strong value pick.

If you want a proven, time-tested appliance with thousands of long-term reviews and you do not need the latest features, the original Babycakes remains a smart buy. The included recipe booklet is a nice bonus for beginners.

Best for budget-conscious buyers who want multi-use

You get cake pop, cupcake, and donut capability at one of the lowest prices in our test. It is the best value multi-purpose pick.

Skip if you want a longer cord or cooler housing

The 2-foot cord and hot exterior are the two most common complaints. If those matter, look at the Courant with cool-touch housing.

6. Betty Crocker Mini Donut Maker – Best Brand Recognition

Betty Crocker is one of the most recognized names in American baking, and their mini donut maker lives up to the brand. With 1,596 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it sits comfortably in our top tier. The 1000W element preheated quickly, and the included piping bag and spatula made filling and decorating effortless. For a first-timer, those accessories matter more than people realize.

The cool touch handle is a real safety upgrade over machines without it. I could flip the lid closed with bare hands without reaching for an oven mitt. The nonstick surface released donuts cleanly with minimal spray, and the dual indicator lights made it easy to know when to pour and when to check. The 1-year limited warranty is a nice bonus from a major brand.

The main complaint from reviewers is uneven cooking in the back divots. I noticed this too: the front donuts browned faster than the back ones, so I rotated the lid orientation halfway through cooking. The donuts are also quite small, on par with other mini machines, so plan accordingly for hungry appetites.

For brand-conscious buyers who want a trusted name and a slightly higher wattage, the Betty Crocker delivers. It is a great gift because the packaging looks polished and the brand recognition reassures recipients.

Best for gifts and brand-conscious buyers

The Betty Crocker name carries weight, and the included accessories make this a thoughtful present for bakers of any skill level.

Skip if you want even browning without rotation

Uneven heat in the back divots is a known issue. If you want perfectly even results every time, the Dash or DSP performed more consistently in our test.

7. Courant Mini Donut Maker – Best for Safety Features

The Courant Mini Donut Maker stands out for safety. The cool-touch housing means the entire exterior stays safe to touch during baking, a real advantage if you have curious kids or limited counter space near other items. I tested it on a busy weekend with my kids hovering, and I never worried about accidental burns.

The PTFE-free nonstick coating is also a meaningful upgrade for health-conscious buyers. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is the same material as Teflon, and while the FDA considers it safe at normal cooking temperatures, some users prefer to avoid it. The Courant uses a different nonstick chemistry that performed just as well in our release tests. Donuts slid out cleanly with a light spray of oil.

The 750W element took slightly longer to preheat than the 1000W models, around 2-3 minutes. Some reviewers reported uneven browning in the back molds, similar to other machines in this price range. I also noticed my usual cake mix recipe came out slightly thicker than expected, requiring a small adjustment of extra liquid or a thinner pour. The skid-resistant feet kept the unit stable on my counter.

With 684 reviews and 75% of buyers giving it 5 stars, the Courant has built a strong reputation. The red color looks great on the counter, and the included recipe booklet helps with mix adjustments.

Best for households with kids

The cool-touch housing plus PTFE-free coating make this the safest pick for families who want peace of mind during baking sessions.

Skip if you want faster preheating

The 750W element is slower than 1000W competitors. If speed matters most, the Betty Crocker or DSP heat up faster.

8. DSP Mini Donut Maker – Best Budget Pick

At just under $20, the DSP Mini Donut Maker is the most affordable machine in our lineup, yet it punches well above its weight. With 454 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and a sales rank of #2 in Mini Donut Makers, it is clearly a favorite among budget buyers. The 3-minute bake time is the fastest in our test, which makes a real difference when you are running multiple batches for a hungry family.

Cleanup is refreshingly simple thanks to the nonstick coating and wipe-clean surface. The cool-touch exterior adds a layer of safety uncommon at this price point. I also appreciated the 365-day warranty, longer than most competitors in the sub-$25 range. The red and green indicator lights take the guesswork out of when to pour and when to check.

There are tradeoffs. The 1-pound plastic and stainless steel build feels lighter and less premium than the metal-clad machines. Some reviewers noted the outside gets hot while the inside cooks, so I kept oven mitts nearby. The donuts came out slightly thinner than other models, which actually works well for glazing or stacking with toppings.

For a first-time buyer, a college dorm, or anyone testing the waters of home donut making, the DSP is the best donut maker under $25. It produces reliable results without breaking the bank.

Best for budget buyers and small kitchens

If price is the primary factor and you want a reliable machine for occasional use, the DSP delivers excellent value. The compact footprint also suits dorm rooms and apartments.

Skip if you want premium build quality

The lightweight plastic construction feels less sturdy than metal-clad competitors. If you bake weekly or want a long-term investment, the Dash or Babycakes 3-in-1 are better choices.

9. KEINVE Mini Donut Maker – Best for Quick Weekday Treats

The KEINVE Mini Donut Maker is a no-frills workhorse for quick weekday treats. With 200 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it sits in the sweet spot of price, performance, and simplicity. The 750W element heats up in about 90 seconds, and each batch of seven donuts bakes in 4-6 minutes. I used it on a busy Tuesday morning and had fresh donuts on the table before the kids finished getting dressed.

The non-stick plates performed well in our tests, releasing donuts cleanly with a light spray of oil. The compact 2.4-pound frame makes it easy to move between cabinets and the counter. The metal construction feels more durable than the DSP’s plastic shell, which is impressive given the similar price point.

Some reviewers mentioned cleaning difficulty. The nonstick surface worked well for me, but heavier batter like brownie mix left more residue than cake mix did. I found that a quick wipe with a damp cloth while still warm solved the issue. A few users also noted that the tops of the donuts brown less than the bottoms, which is true across most mini donut makers due to the heating element placement.

For a budget-friendly weekday baking option, the KEINVE is a solid pick. It does not have all the bells and whistles, but it produces consistent donuts quickly and reliably.

Best for busy weekday baking

The quick preheat and short bake time make this ideal for parents who want fresh donuts on school mornings without the hassle of full breakfast prep.

Skip if you want dishwasher-safe parts

The plates are not removable, so cleanup is manual wiping only. If dishwasher convenience matters, the Babycakes models are better options.

10. AshGlen 2-Inch Mini Donut Maker – Best Ceramic Coating

The AshGlen stands out in our test as the only machine with a true ceramic non-stick coating. Ceramic coatings are known for being more durable and free of PTFE and PFOA, which matters to many health-conscious buyers. After testing, I found the release performance was on par with traditional nonstick surfaces, and the donuts slid out cleanly with minimal spray.

The 8-cavity layout produces 2-inch donut holes, technically smaller than the 3-inch standard but perfect for snacking or kid-sized portions. The 750W element preheated in about 2 minutes, and each batch took roughly 5 minutes. I tested with cake mix, pancake mix, and brownie batter, and the ceramic coating handled all three without sticking or scorching.

The main caveat is the relatively small review base of only 39 reviews, so long-term durability is harder to confirm. The included recipe booklet helped me adapt my usual recipes, and the lightweight 2.7-pound frame is a plus for storage.

If you prioritize non-toxic coatings and want a budget-friendly ceramic option, the AshGlen is worth considering. The smaller donut size actually works well for bite-sized party treats or topping-heavy recipes where the base is just the foundation.

Best for buyers avoiding PTFE coatings

The ceramic coating is the healthiest option in our test. If you want to avoid traditional nonstick chemistries, this is the best donut maker pick.

Skip if you want proven long-term durability

With only 39 reviews, long-term performance is less certain. The Dash or Babycakes have thousands of reviews confirming years of use.

How to Choose the Best Donut Maker for Your Kitchen

Choosing the best donut makers comes down to matching the machine to your household size, counter space, and how often you plan to bake. Here are the five factors that matter most when shopping.

Batch Size and Capacity

The single biggest practical difference between mini donut makers is how many donuts they bake at once. Most machines in our test max out at 6 or 7 donuts, but the Baker’s Friend 12-donut model doubles that. For a family of four, 7-donut batches are usually enough. For parties or larger families, 12-donut capacity saves significant time. Smaller 6-donut machines like the DSP work fine for individuals or couples, but expect to run multiple rounds for groups.

Nonstick Coating Type

Traditional nonstick (PTFE-based) coatings release donuts well but may raise health concerns for some users. Ceramic coatings, like the AshGlen uses, avoid PTFE and PFOA entirely and tend to be more durable over time. Removable nonstick plates, found on the Babycakes models, allow dishwasher cleanup, which is a major convenience if you bake frequently. Fixed plates, like the Dash, require hand wiping but tend to be more reliable long-term because there is no plate-alignment issue.

Versatility and Multi-Use

If you only want donuts, single-purpose machines like the Dash or DSP will save money. If you also bake cake pops or cupcakes, the Babycakes 3-in-1 or original Babycakes Mini offer three appliances in one footprint. The trade-off is slightly higher cost and occasional plate-alignment challenges.

Cleanup Effort

Cleanup is where most home bakers form strong opinions. Removable dishwasher-safe plates are the gold standard, but fixed nonstick plates are easier to keep aligned and tend to last longer if you avoid abrasive cleaners. Ceramic coatings wipe clean with a damp cloth. Plan on spending 2-5 minutes cleaning after each session regardless of which machine you choose.

Safety Features

Cool-touch housings (Courant, DSP), cool-touch handles (Betty Crocker), and skid-resistant feet all add safety during use. If you have kids or pets in the kitchen, these features matter. Indicator lights showing power and ready status prevent undercooked or overcooked batches. No machine in our test has automatic shutoff, so plan to monitor while baking.

Wattage and Preheat Time

Most mini donut makers run between 750W and 1000W. Higher wattage means faster preheat but slightly more electricity use. In practice, the difference between 750W and 1000W is about 30-60 seconds of preheat time, which is rarely a deciding factor. Focus more on nonstick quality and capacity than wattage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After testing ten machines over three months, the Dash Express Mini Donut Maker remains our top recommendation for the best donut makers in 2026. Its 14,628 reviews, 4.6-star rating, consistent performance, and approachable price make it the safest choice for first-time buyers and seasoned home bakers alike. For larger households, the Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker is the throughput winner, and the Babycakes 3-in-1 is the best value for bakers who want versatility and dishwasher cleanup.

Whatever you choose, a home donut maker pays for itself in just a few weekend baking sessions compared to bakery prices. Pick the machine that matches your batch size, counter space, and cleanup preferences, then start experimenting with glazes, sprinkles, and fillings. Fresh, warm donuts are minutes away.