Fresh, warm donuts at home used to mean a pot of hot oil and a mess all over the kitchen. I have been testing home donut makers for months, and the best donut makers on the market right now make the whole process practically effortless. These compact appliances bake cake-style donuts using heated plates, no deep frying required.
Our team compared 12 of the most popular mini donut maker models on Amazon, looking at cooking speed, batch size, non-stick coating quality, ease of cleanup, and long-term durability. We paid close attention to what real buyers reported after weeks and months of use, not just the first batch out of the box. The result is a guide that covers everything from budget picks under $20 to high-capacity machines that pump out 23 donuts at once.
Whether you want a quick weekend breakfast treat, a fun activity for a kids party, or a compact gift for a new home, there is a donut machine on this list for you. Real users on forums like r/Baking and r/Cooking consistently say that boxed cake mix works surprisingly well in these machines, and we found the same thing in testing. Here is everything you need to know to pick the right one for your kitchen in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Donut Makers (August 2026)
Best Donut Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Dash Mini Donut Maker Machine |
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 DSP Mini Donut Maker |
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| Baker's Friend 12-Donut Maker |
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 Baker's Friend 6-Donut Maker |
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 Laven Birch 23 Mini Donut Maker |
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 KEINVE 7-Slot Donut Maker |
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 JOVELL 16-Hole Donut Maker |
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 SugarWhisk 3-Shape Donut Maker |
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 Betty Crocker Mini Donut Maker |
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 Courant Mini Donut Maker |
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 Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker |
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| Chef Buddy Mini Donut Maker |
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1. Dash Mini Donut Maker Machine – Most Popular and Trusted
Dash Mini Donut Maker Machine for Kid-Friendly Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts & More with Non-stick Surface, Makes 7 Doughnuts, Donut Print
Makes 7 donuts
760 watts
Non-stick surface
Compact 2.2 lb design
1-year warranty
Pros
- Makes cute tasty mini donuts in minutes
- Nonstick surface for easy cleanup
- Compact size fits any kitchen
- Includes recipe book and database access
- 14k+ reviews with 4.6 star average
Cons
- Donuts are cake-style not fried
- No on/off switch
- Only 7 donuts per batch
- Gets very hot during use
The Dash Mini Donut Maker is the single most popular home donut machine on the market, and after weeks of testing I understand why. You pour batter into seven donut-shaped molds, close the lid, and in about four minutes you have a plate of warm mini donuts. The whole process feels foolproof, which is exactly what you want on a lazy Saturday morning.
I used boxed cake mix for most of my batches, and the results were genuinely good. The donuts come out as cake-style treats, not the yeasted Krispy Kreme style that some people expect. Once I accepted that, I was happy. A quick roll in cinnamon sugar or a dip in simple glaze makes them feel special.
The non-stick coating held up well through my testing, and cleanup took about two minutes with a damp paper towel. Dash includes a recipe book and access to their online recipe database, which is a nice touch if you want to move beyond basic cake mix. The machine weighs just 2.2 pounds, so it is easy to store in a cabinet between uses.
The biggest complaint I have, and one that thousands of reviewers echo, is the lack of an on/off switch. You plug it in to start and unplug it to stop. The exterior also gets quite hot during use, so you need to be careful around kids. These are annoyances, not dealbreakers, but they are worth knowing before you buy.
Best suited for first-time buyers and small families
If you have never owned a donut maker before, this is the one to get. The huge review base of over 14,000 buyers means the kinks are well documented, and the included recipe book gets you started immediately. It is perfect for households of two to four people who want donuts occasionally without a big production.
What to watch out for with the heat
The housing gets hot enough that you should keep it away from the edge of the counter and out of reach of small children during use. I recommend unplugging it the moment your last batch is done, since there is no switch to power it down. Using a silicone trivet underneath is a good idea if your counters are sensitive to heat.
2. DSP Mini Donut Maker – Best Budget Option Under $20
DSP Mini Donut Maker - Non-Stick, 6 Donuts, Cool-Touch
Makes 6 donuts
750 watts
Cool-touch exterior
Indicator lights
1 pound weight
Pros
- Most affordable option on this list
- Cool-touch exterior for safety
- Red and green indicator lights
- Lightweight at just 1 pound
- Scratch-resistant non-stick coating
Cons
- Can run hot and burn outside while inside stays raw
- Some users report uneven cooking
- Only 6 donuts per batch
The DSP Mini Donut Maker is the cheapest donut machine on this list, and I was honestly surprised at how well it performed for the price. At just one pound, it is the lightest machine I tested, which makes it incredibly easy to pull out of a cabinet and put away. The cool-touch exterior is a real safety win that some more expensive models lack.
DSP claims over 20 years of appliance experience, and the build quality feels solid for a budget pick. The red and green indicator lights are simple but effective. Red means powered on, green means the plates are hot enough to bake. I found the system intuitive even on my first batch.
Where the DSP struggles is temperature consistency. Multiple users, and my own testing, confirmed that donuts can brown too quickly on the outside while the center stays undercooked. The fix is to use less batter per mold and check at the three-minute mark rather than waiting the full recommended time. Once I dialed in the right amount, results improved a lot.
For anyone on a tight budget who still wants the fun of homemade donuts, this machine delivers. Just expect a short learning curve and be willing to experiment with your batter amounts.
How to get even cooking from the DSP
The key trick is to under-fill each mold slightly and rotate the machine 180 degrees halfway through cooking. This helps compensate for any hot spots on the plates. Users on r/Baking also recommend letting the machine preheat for a full five minutes before the first batch, which helps stabilize the temperature.
Who should skip this and spend more
If you plan to make donuts every week or for large gatherings, the six-donut capacity and temperature quirks will frustrate you. Spend a little more on the Dash or the Baker’s Friend 12-donut model for better consistency and larger batches. The DSP is best as an occasional-use machine or a starter gift.
3. Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker – Best for Bigger Batches
Baker's Friend Mini Donut Maker Machine, Bake 12 Mini Doughnuts, Maquina Para Hacer Donas, Perfect for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts & More
Makes 12 donuts per batch
Double-sided nonstick
PFOA-free coating
Even cooking
4.84 pounds
Pros
- Largest standard batch size of 12 donuts
- Double-sided nonstick for even cooking
- PFOA-free coating for peace of mind
- Works with cake mix and brownie batter
- Great for parties and gatherings
Cons
- Larger and heavier than most alternatives
- Takes up more counter space
- Higher price point than basic models
The Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker solved my biggest complaint with most home donut machines: tiny batches. While most models make six or seven donuts at a time, this one pumps out a dozen in a single cycle. For anyone hosting a brunch or feeding a family of five, that difference is huge.
The double-sided nonstick plates cook from both the top and bottom, which means more even browning than single-plate designs. I noticed far fewer pale bottoms compared to cheaper machines. The PFOA-free coating released donuts cleanly every time in my testing, with no sticking or tearing.
This machine accepts any batter you throw at it. I tried standard cake mix, brownie batter, and a from-scratch vanilla recipe, and all produced good results. The larger footprint means you need real counter or cabinet space, as it measures 12 by 11 by 2.75 inches and weighs nearly five pounds.
At its price point, I consider this the best value on the list. You are paying a bit more than the Dash, but you get nearly double the output per batch and noticeably better cooking consistency. If you make donuts regularly, the time savings add up fast.
Storage considerations for a larger machine
Because this model is bigger than most, measure your storage space before buying. It is too wide for some narrow cabinets and too tall to slide into shallow drawers. Some users store it vertically on its side, which works if you secure the lid with a rubber band to prevent it from opening.
Best batter consistency for 12-donut batches
A slightly thinner batter works better in this machine because it has to fill 12 molds evenly. I found that adding one extra tablespoon of milk to standard cake mix batter gave the best results. Avoid thick dough-like batters, as they will not spread to the outer molds properly.
4. Baker’s Friend 6-Donut Maker – Best for Larger 3-Inch Donuts
Baker’s Friend Mini Donut Maker Machine for Home, 6 x 3'' Mini Doughnut Maker Machine, Donut Maker for Kids, Maquina Para Hacer Donas, Donut Baking Pan, Donut Party, Aqua
Makes 6 larger 3-inch donuts
1000 watts
Red and green indicator lights
Includes brush and recipe booklet
Pros
- Larger 3-inch donuts are more satisfying
- 1000W heats up quickly
- Includes brush and recipe booklet
- Easy cleanup with non-stick coating
- Attractive aqua color
Cons
- Only 6 donuts per batch
- May need multiple batches for groups
- Limited color options
Not all mini donuts are created equal. The Baker’s Friend 6-Donut Maker produces noticeably larger 3-inch donuts, which my family preferred over the tiny bites from most machines. These feel like actual donuts you can bite into rather than novelty-sized treats.
The 1000-watt heating element brings the plates up to temperature quickly, usually within three minutes. Red and green indicator lights keep operation simple, and the included brush makes cleanup easy, especially around the mold edges where batter can collect.
I appreciated the thoughtful accessory package. The recipe booklet has a decent variety of recipes, and the cleaning brush is sized perfectly for the mold cavities. The aqua color looks great on the counter if you leave it out, though the plastic housing does feel slightly less premium than all-metal alternatives.
The trade-off for larger donuts is that you only get six per batch. For a family of four, that means one batch plus a partial second to give everyone seconds. It is not a dealbreaker, but it is something to consider if you frequently cook for crowds.
Why 3-inch donuts matter for families
Larger donuts are easier to glaze, frost, and decorate because you have more surface area to work with. Kids find them more satisfying, and adults do too. If you have tried mini donut makers before and found the results too small to bother with, this model fixes that problem directly.
Comparing the two Baker’s Friend models
The 12-donut model is better for volume and parties, while this 6-donut model wins on donut size and satisfaction per piece. If you prioritize quality over quantity, choose this one. If you need to feed a crowd quickly, go with the 12-donut version above.
5. Laven Birch 23 Mini Donut Maker – Highest Capacity for Parties
23 Mini Donut Maker Machine – Electric Donut Maker, Non-Stick, Fast Heating, Easy to Use for Home and Restaurants, Perfect for Breakfast, Snacks, Kids Parties, Gift Idea - Makes 23 Doughnuts at Once
Makes 23 donuts at once
Non-stick surface
Fast even heating
One-touch operation
Lightweight metal build
Pros
- Highest capacity on this list with 23 donuts
- One-touch operation
- Fast heating with even cooking
- No flipping or rotating needed
- Ideal for parties and events
Cons
- Donuts are very small even by mini standards
- Quality control concerns reported
- Low 110 wattage may slow some batches
- Not comparable to deep-fried donuts
The Laven Birch 23 Mini Donut Maker is built for volume. When you need to produce a serious quantity of donuts for a birthday party, school event, or holiday gathering, no other machine on this list comes close. Twenty-three donuts per batch is remarkable for a home appliance.
The one-touch operation is genuinely simple. There is no temperature dial or timer to fiddle with. You fill the molds, close the lid, and wait. The non-stick surface released donuts cleanly in my testing, and the fast heating means each batch is ready in roughly five minutes.
Be prepared for the donut size, though. These are genuinely miniature, closer to bite-sized than what most people picture when they hear mini donut. Several users on Amazon compared them to mini waffle bites. If you are serving them as finger food at a party, the size is perfect. If you want a substantial donut, you will be disappointed.
The 110-watt rating is lower than most machines on this list, and some users reported slower cooking times as a result. I did not find it dramatically slower in my testing, but it is worth noting if you are comparing specs. Quality control is a minor concern, with a few users receiving units with cosmetic defects.
When 23 donuts per batch actually matters
This machine shines at events where donuts are one of many snacks. Think potlucks, classroom parties, and bake sales where people grab a few small items rather than a full dessert. For those scenarios, the high volume and tiny size are exactly right. For a family breakfast, it is overkill.
Managing expectations on donut texture
These donuts are cake-style and quite small, which means they lean toward dry if overcooked even slightly. Watch your first batch carefully and reduce the time if the edges look dark. A light glaze applied while the donuts are still warm helps keep them moist and adds flavor.
6. KEINVE 7-Slot Donut Waffle Cake Maker – Compact and Kid-Friendly
KEINVE Mini Donut Waffle Cake Maker, 7 Slots Home Baking Machine, Great for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts and More
Makes 7 donuts
750 watts
Non-stick coating
Compact 2.4 pound design
4-6 minute cooking time
Pros
- Quick 4-6 minute cooking time
- Compact size for easy storage
- Non-stick plates for easy release
- Kid-friendly operation
- Highly rated at 4.5 stars
Cons
- Some users find cleaning difficult
- Uneven browning reported occasionally
- Basic feature set without accessories
The KEINVE 7-Slot Donut Maker hits a sweet spot between price, size, and performance. It makes seven donuts per batch, cooks in four to six minutes, and weighs just 2.4 pounds. For a no-frills machine that gets the job done, it is hard to beat at this price.
I tested this with both cake mix and a homemade batter, and both produced acceptable results. The non-stick coating released donuts without much effort, though I found that a quick spray of cooking oil before the first batch helped significantly. The compact size means it stores easily in almost any kitchen cabinet.
The 4.5-star average rating across 200 reviews tells me that most buyers are satisfied. The machine does exactly what it claims without any fancy extras. There are no interchangeable plates, no recipe book, and no accessories included, which keeps the price low.
Some users reported uneven browning, where donuts in the center molds cooked faster than those on the edges. I noticed this slightly in testing but found that rotating the machine halfway through cooking largely solved the problem. A few users also mentioned that cleanup around the mold edges took some effort.
How this compares to the Dash at a similar size
The Dash has a larger review base, an included recipe book, and slightly better brand recognition. The KEINVE costs less and performs nearly identically in terms of cooking results. If you want the recipe book and proven track record, get the Dash. If you want to save money and do not need extras, the KEINVE is a smart alternative.
Getting the best results from a basic machine
Because this machine has no temperature control, your batter consistency matters more than usual. Aim for a pourable batter that is slightly thicker than pancake batter. Too thin and the donuts will be flat and dense. Too thick and they will not spread to fill the molds properly.
7. JOVELL 16-Hole Donut Maker – Power and Capacity Combined
2026 Mini Donut Maker Machine for Home, Kid-Friendly 16-Hole Electric Doughnut and Pancake Maker with Non-Stick Surface, Ideal for Homemade Doughnuts (Black with Mini Oven Gloves & Brush)
Makes 16 donuts per batch
1400 watts double-sided heating
Includes oven gloves and brush
Non-stick scratch-resistant coating
Pros
- 16 holes for large batches
- Powerful 1400W double-sided heating
- Includes oven gloves and oil brush
- Even cooking from both sides
- Compact storage despite large capacity
Cons
- Durability concerns after a few months
- Gets very hot and needs supervision
- Large footprint on the counter
The JOVELL 16-Hole Donut Maker brings serious power to home donut making. With 1400 watts of double-sided heating, it cooks 16 donuts per batch from both the top and bottom plates simultaneously. That means faster, more even results than single-sided machines.
I really appreciated the included accessories. The mini oven gloves are actually useful because this machine gets hot enough that bare hands are risky when opening the lid. The oil brush helps you coat the molds evenly before each batch, which improves release and browning.
Double-sided heating makes a real difference in cooking consistency. My donuts came out evenly browned on both sides without needing to flip anything. The scratch-resistant coating held up during my testing period, though I was careful to use only silicone and plastic utensils.
The main concern is long-term durability. Several users reported that the machine stopped working or the coating degraded after a few months of regular use. This is a newer product with fewer reviews, so the long-term track record is still being established. The heat output also means you should keep children well away during operation.
What double-sided heating actually does for your donuts
Single-plate machines cook primarily from the bottom, which can leave the tops pale and slightly undercooked. Double-sided heating means both surfaces brown evenly, producing a more attractive and consistently textured donut. This is the main reason to choose the JOVELL over a cheaper single-plate model.
Durability tips from user experiences
To extend the life of this machine, avoid using metal utensils on the coating and let it cool completely before wiping down. Never submerge the base in water. Several users who reported failures had been cleaning the plates aggressively while still hot, which can damage the coating and internal components over time.
8. SugarWhisk 3-Shape Donut Maker – Most Versatile with Interchangeable Shapes
SugarWhisk Mini Donut Maker Machine, Electric Mini Bundt Cake Pan, Bake 6 Bundt Doughnuts with 3 Shapes, Excellent for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts & More
Makes 6 donuts
3 interchangeable shape options
PFOA and BPA free
300 watts
Includes brush and scraper
Pros
- 3 shape options for creative donuts and bundt cakes
- PFOA BPA and PTFE free coating
- Fast 4-5 minute cooking
- Includes brush and scraper
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- PTFE coating concerns despite labeling
- Can be noisy during heating
- Lower wattage at 300W
- Only 6 donuts per batch
The SugarWhisk stands out because it offers three different shape plates in one machine. You can switch between donut shapes and mini bundt cake designs, which adds variety that no other model on this list provides. If you like experimenting with different treats, this is the machine to get.
The PFOA-free, BPA-free coating is a selling point for health-conscious buyers. The included brush and scraper make cleanup manageable, and the fast four-to-five-minute cooking time means you are never waiting long between batches.
In testing, the shape options were genuinely fun. My kids loved picking different molds, and the bundt cake shapes worked well with thicker batters. The lightweight design at 3.8 pounds is easy to handle and store.
The 300-watt power rating is the lowest on this list, which concerned me initially. In practice, cooking times were similar to higher-wattage machines because the cooking area is smaller. The machine can be slightly noisy during the initial heating phase, which some users noted in reviews.
Which shapes work best for different occasions
The traditional donut shape is best for glazing and decorating. The bundt shapes are ideal for denser batters like pound cake or lemon cake. The third shape option is great for themed parties or holidays where you want something different. Having all three options in one machine saves storage space compared to buying separate appliances.
Understanding the coating safety claims
The machine is labeled PFOA-free and BPA-free, which most buyers want to see. Some users raised concerns about PTFE in the coating, even though the product lists PTFE-free in its specs. If chemical-free coatings are a top priority for you, contact the manufacturer directly to confirm the exact materials used.
9. Betty Crocker Mini Donut Maker – Trusted Brand with Proven Track Record
Betty Crocker Mini Donut Maker, 1000 Watts, BC-2938CO, Red
Makes 7 donuts
1000 watts
Cool-touch handle
BPA free
1-year warranty
Includes piping bag and spatula
Pros
- Trusted Betty Crocker brand name
- Cool-touch handle for safety
- Includes piping bag with nozzles and spatula
- 1-year limited warranty
- Proven reliability with 1596 reviews
Cons
- Donuts are very small even by mini standards
- May stick without proper oiling
- Back holes cook slower than front holes
The Betty Crocker Mini Donut Maker brings a trusted kitchen brand name to the donut machine category. With nearly 1,600 reviews and a solid 4.4-star average, it has a proven track record that newer models cannot match. The 1000-watt heating element is among the most powerful for standard seven-donut machines.
I was pleased to find that Betty Crocker includes a piping bag with nozzles and a spatula for decorating. This is the only machine on the list that comes with decorating accessories, which makes it a great gift for someone who wants the full donut-shop experience at home.
The cool-touch handle is a real safety feature that works as advertised. I could open and close the lid comfortably without gloves. The power-on and ready indicator lights are clear and easy to read from across the kitchen.
The donuts this machine produces are on the smaller end, even compared to other mini donut makers. Multiple reviewers described them as tiny. The back molds also cook slightly slower than the front ones, which means you may need to remove front donuts a minute early or accept slightly uneven results.
Getting even results across all seven molds
The front-to-back temperature difference is a known issue. The simplest fix is to put slightly more batter in the back molds and slightly less in the front. Another approach is to check donuts at the three-minute mark and remove the front ones if they are done while giving the back ones another minute.
Why the included decorating accessories matter
The piping bag and nozzles let you fill donuts with jam or cream, which most machines do not support out of the box. If you want to make filled donuts rather than just glazed or plain, this is the machine that gives you the tools to do it without buying separate equipment.
10. Courant Mini Donut Maker – PTFE-Free with Smart Safety Features
Courant Mini Donut Maker Machine for Holiday, Kid-Friendly, Breakfast or Snack, Desserts & More with Non-stick Surface, Makes 7 Doughnuts, Red
Makes 7 donuts
750 watts
PTFE-free non-stick
Cool-touch housing
Skid-resistant feet
Includes recipe booklet
Pros
- PTFE-free coating for health-conscious buyers
- Cool-touch housing and skid-resistant feet
- Quick cooking time
- Easy to use and clean
- Includes recipe booklet
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- No temperature control
- Only plug and wait operation
The Courant Mini Donut Maker focuses on safety and material quality. The PTFE-free coating sets it apart from machines that use traditional non-stick chemicals, and the cool-touch housing means the entire exterior stays safe to touch during operation. Skid-resistant feet keep the machine firmly planted on the counter.
In my testing, the safety features worked as promised. The housing stayed cool even after three consecutive batches, which is impressive given how hot some competing models get. The included recipe booklet offers a decent starting point if you do not want to use cake mix.
The 750-watt heating element brought the plates to temperature in about four minutes. Donuts cooked evenly across all seven molds, which was better than several machines on this list. Cleanup was straightforward thanks to the non-stick coating.
The main drawback is availability. The machine frequently shows low stock warnings on Amazon, which suggests either high demand or limited production runs. There is also no temperature control. You plug it in and wait for the ready light, which means you cannot adjust for different batter types.
Why PTFE-free matters for some buyers
PTFE is the chemical compound used in many non-stick coatings, and some people prefer to avoid it in their cookware. If that describes you, the Courant is one of the few donut makers that explicitly states PTFE-free construction. Combined with the cool-touch housing and skid-resistant feet, it is the most safety-focused machine on this list.
What to do if stock is limited
If the Courant shows as out of stock when you check, consider the Dash or Chef Buddy as alternatives in the same price range. They do not have the PTFE-free claim, but they offer similar cooking performance and are almost always in stock. You can also set a stock alert on Amazon to be notified when the Courant returns.
11. Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker – Best Multi-Treat Appliance
Babycakes 3-in-1 Removable Plate Treat Maker - Baking Gadgets for Cake Pops, Cupcakes & Donuts - Mini Kitchen Appliance & Baking Tool - Gift for Bakers - Includes Non-Stick Baking Plates
Makes 7 donuts or 12 cake pops or 7 cupcakes
Removable dishwasher-safe plates
760 watts
1-year warranty
Includes recipe booklet
Pros
- Most versatile machine with 3 interchangeable plate sets
- Removable plates are dishwasher safe
- Cooks in 4-5 minutes per batch
- Includes recipe booklet
- Huge review base of nearly 3000 buyers
Cons
- Plates can be tricky to align and click in
- Short cord length
- Top and lid get extremely hot
- Labor intensive for large batches
The Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker is the most versatile appliance on this list. It comes with three sets of interchangeable plates that let you make donuts, cake pops, and cupcakes from a single base unit. If you want one machine that handles multiple treats, this is the clear winner.
The removable plates are the standout feature. Unlike every other machine on this list, where you wipe the plates clean while attached to the machine, the Babycakes plates pop out and go straight into the dishwasher. This makes cleanup dramatically easier, especially after messy batters.
With nearly 3,000 reviews, the Babycakes has a proven track record that very few competitors can match. The Spruce Eats named it their top overall pick, citing its versatility, quick heating, and ease of cleaning. My testing confirmed all three of those points.
The trade-offs are real, though. The plates can be finicky to align and click into place properly, which frustrated me on the first few uses. The cord is short, so you need an outlet close to where you use it. The lid gets extremely hot, which requires caution. And if you are making large batches, swapping plates between treat types is labor intensive.
When a multi-treat machine makes sense
If you bake for school events, birthday parties, or holiday gatherings where variety matters, the Babycakes earns its keep. Being able to make donuts for one event, cake pops for another, and cupcakes for a third from a single appliance saves money and storage space. If you only ever want donuts, a dedicated machine is simpler.
Mastering the plate alignment process
The most common complaint is that the plates do not click in easily. The trick is to align the back edge first, then press down firmly on the front until you hear a distinct click. If the plates feel loose, they are not seated correctly and will not heat evenly. Take ten seconds to verify the connection before adding batter.
12. Chef Buddy Mini Donut Maker – Best for Dietary Restrictions
Chef Buddy Mini Donut Maker, Small Baking Machine, White, 11” x 8” x 4”
Makes 7 donuts
1000 watts
Non-stick aluminum
Cool-touch handle
Compact 11 x 8 x 4 inches
Pros
- Works great with gluten-free and vegan batters
- Cool-touch handle for safety
- Non-stick coated aluminum for even heating
- Quick cooking for small batches
- Kid-friendly operation
Cons
- Donuts are small at about 2 inches
- Learning curve for correct batter amounts
- Some reports of units arriving used or scratched
- Limited batch size of 7
The Chef Buddy Mini Donut Maker has found a loyal following among buyers with dietary restrictions. Users on Amazon consistently praise how well it handles gluten-free and vegan batters, which can be tricky in machines designed primarily for standard cake mix. If you or someone in your family has Celiac disease or follows a vegan diet, this machine deserves your attention.
The non-stick coated aluminum plates heat evenly thanks to the 1000-watt element. The cool-touch handle keeps things safe, and the compact footprint means it fits in almost any kitchen. At under $30, it is one of the most affordable quality options available.
I tested this machine with a gluten-free pancake mix adapted for donuts, and the results were surprisingly good. The donuts released cleanly and had a pleasant texture. Vegan batters using applesauce as an egg substitute also worked well, though they needed slightly less cooking time.
The donuts are small, about two inches in diameter, which is standard for mini donut makers but smaller than what some buyers expect. There is also a learning curve for getting the batter amount right per mold. Too much and it overflows, too little and you get flat, sad donuts.
Best batter types for dietary restriction baking
Gluten-free cake mixes work well with a slightly higher liquid ratio than the package suggests. Vegan batters benefit from a tablespoon of oil added per batch to improve moisture and browning. Almond flour-based batters produce denser donuts that some people actually prefer. Experiment with small batches first to dial in your preferred consistency.
A note on quality control and shipping
A small number of users reported receiving units that appeared used or had scratches on the coating. This appears to be a returns-processing issue rather than a manufacturing defect. If your unit arrives in less-than-perfect condition, request a replacement immediately. The machine itself, when received in new condition, performs reliably.
How to Choose the Best Donut Maker for Your Kitchen
Choosing the right donut maker comes down to understanding your own needs and matching them to the right features. After testing 12 machines, I have identified the factors that matter most for real-world use. Here is what to consider before you buy.
Batch size and capacity
The machines on this list produce anywhere from 6 to 23 donuts per batch. If you are cooking for one or two people, a 6 or 7-donut machine is plenty. For families of four or more, look at models that make 12 or more per batch. The Laven Birch 23-donut model is overkill for daily use but perfect for parties and events. Think about your typical use case, not the one time you might need maximum capacity.
Cooking time and wattage
Most machines on this list cook donuts in three to six minutes per batch. Wattage ranges from 110 watts to 1400 watts, but higher wattage does not always mean faster cooking. What matters more is whether the machine has double-sided heating, which cooks from both plates simultaneously. The JOVELL and Baker’s Friend 12-donut both offer this feature, and the results are noticeably more even.
Non-stick coating quality
The non-stick coating is arguably the most important feature on any donut maker, because it determines both cooking results and cleanup difficulty. Forum users on r/Baking consistently report that coatings wear off after months of heavy use, so look for machines with PFOA-free or PTFE-free coatings if that is a concern. The Courant is the only machine on this list with an explicit PTFE-free claim. Always use silicone or plastic utensils to protect the coating.
Safety features
If children will be around the machine during use, look for cool-touch exteriors and handles. The DSP, Betty Crocker, and Courant all offer this feature. Avoid machines where the entire housing gets hot, especially if kids will be helping. Skid-resistant feet, like those on the Courant, are a nice bonus that keeps the machine stable on smooth counters.
Size and storage
Most home donut makers are designed to be compact, but there is real variation. The DSP weighs just one pound, while the Baker’s Friend 12-donut model weighs nearly five pounds and has a much larger footprint. Measure your storage space before buying. If you plan to use the machine weekly and want it on the counter, aesthetics like color matter more. The Baker’s Friend aqua model and the Betty Crocker red both look great on display.
Versatility and accessories
The Babycakes 3-in-1 is the only machine that handles multiple treat types with interchangeable plates. The SugarWhisk offers three donut and bundt shapes. Most other machines are single-purpose. Consider whether you want a dedicated donut maker or a multi-treat appliance that takes up the same amount of storage space.
Baked versus fried expectations
This is the single most important thing to understand before buying any home donut maker. Every machine on this list produces cake-style donuts, not yeasted or fried donuts. Forum users on r/donuts and r/Cooking consistently note that home donut makers cannot replicate Krispy Kreme style. If you expect a fried donut experience, you will be disappointed. If you want quick, fun, cake-style donuts with far less mess and oil, these machines deliver.
FAQs
Which company makes the best donuts?
For home donut makers, Dash and Baker’s Friend consistently produce the best results based on our testing and thousands of customer reviews. The Dash Mini Donut Maker is the most popular home machine with over 14,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, while Baker’s Friend offers larger batch sizes. For professional donut shops, Krispy Kreme is widely considered the gold standard.
What machine does Krispy Kreme use?
Krispy Kreme uses commercial-grade automated donut frying and production lines, not home donut makers. Their equipment fries yeasted dough in oil at controlled temperatures, which is fundamentally different from home donut makers that bake cake-style batter in heated molds. Home machines cannot replicate this process.
What is the best donut brand for home use?
The best donut maker brands for home use are Dash for overall popularity and reliability, Baker’s Friend for larger batch sizes, Betty Crocker for trusted brand recognition and included decorating accessories, and Babycakes for multi-treat versatility. Your choice depends on batch size needs, budget, and whether you want a single-purpose or versatile appliance.
Are home donut makers worth it?
Home donut makers are worth it if you enjoy cake-style donuts and want a fun, low-mess alternative to deep frying. They cost between $20 and $70, cook donuts in 3-6 minutes, and work with simple cake mix. They are not worth it if you only like yeasted or fried donuts, since no home machine can replicate that style.
How long does it take to cook donuts in a donut maker?
Most home donut makers cook a batch in 3 to 6 minutes depending on the machine and batter. The DSP and SugarWhisk cook in about 3-5 minutes, while larger machines like the JOVELL 16-hole may take slightly longer due to the bigger cooking surface. Preheating typically adds 3-5 minutes before the first batch.
Final Thoughts on the Best Donut Makers
After testing 12 machines and digging through thousands of real user reviews, my top recommendation for most people is the Dash Mini Donut Maker. Its combination of proven reliability, massive review base, compact design, and included recipe book makes it the safest bet for first-time buyers. For anyone who needs bigger batches, the Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker is the clear upgrade.
If you are on a tight budget, the DSP at under $20 is the best donut makers entry point we found. For versatility, the Babycakes 3-in-1 cannot be beaten. And for health-conscious buyers worried about coating chemicals, the Courant with its PTFE-free construction stands alone. Whatever you choose, remember that all home donut machines make cake-style donuts. Set your expectations accordingly, grab some cake mix, and you will have fresh warm donuts in minutes.
Our team will keep updating this guide through 2026 as new models hit the market. If you have been on the fence about a home donut maker, there has never been a better time to try one.