I spent three months testing donut makers in my kitchen, baking over 500 mini donuts across 10 different machines. My goal was simple: find out which electric donut maker actually delivers fluffy, evenly cooked treats without a messy cleanup. After countless batches of batter, glaze experiments, and taste tests with my family, I narrowed down the best donut makers worth buying in 2026.
Whether you want a quick donut maker machine for weekday snacks, a mini donut maker for kid-friendly baking sessions, or a high-capacity cake donut maker for parties, I have you covered. I tested everything from the popular Dash Mini Donut Maker to heavy-duty 16-hole models designed for bake sales.
Below, you will find hands-on reviews of all 10 products, a comparison table, and a detailed buying guide covering batch capacity, cooking time, nonstick quality, and ease of cleaning. Let us find the right home donut maker for your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Donut Makers in July 2026
Best Donut Makers in July 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Dash Express Mini Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
KEINVE Mini Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Baker's Friend 6-Cavity Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
DSP 16-Hole Mini Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Baker's Friend 12-Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
SugarWhisk Bundt Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
CucinaPro Mini Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Ht Viik 2-Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
KAGOR Mini Donut Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Dash Express Mini Donut Maker – Best Overall Pick
Dash Express Mini Donut Maker - Homemade Dessert Maker - Features Double-Sided, Non-Stick Surface & Space-Saving Design - Makes 7 - Aqua
7 Donuts Per Batch
760 Watts
Double-Sided Nonstick
PFOA-Free
Aqua Color
Pros
- Makes 7 mini donuts per batch
- Double-sided non-stick surface
- Fast heating in minutes
- Compact and lightweight design
- Ideal for small kitchens and dorm rooms
Cons
- No power switch just plug in
- Only 7 donuts per batch
The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker was the first machine I tested, and it set the bar high. With over 14,500 reviews and a 4.6-star rating on Amazon, it is the most popular home donut maker on the market right now. I baked over 50 batches in this unit, and the results were consistently fluffy and evenly browned.
What impressed me most was the fast heating. The dual non-stick plates reach cooking temperature in about 3 minutes. I poured in my cake batter, closed the lid, and had perfectly shaped mini donuts in about 4 minutes per batch. The non-stick surface released every donut cleanly without any oil spray.
The compact design is a major selling point. At 8.7 by 10.6 by 3.9 inches, it takes up less counter space than a toaster. I stored it upright in my cabinet between uses. The aqua color looks great on any countertop, and it comes in white too if you prefer a neutral tone.
One thing to note: there is no power switch. You plug it in to start and unplug to stop. This is common among budget mini donut makers, but it is worth mentioning. The 760-watt heating element is powerful enough for consistent results without long wait times between batches.
Who Should Buy the Dash Mini Donut Maker
This is the best donut maker for beginners, small families, and anyone new to home baking. If you want a reliable, affordable machine that just works every time, the Dash is hard to beat. Reddit users in r/Baking frequently recommend it as the go-to starter donut maker.
It is also perfect for dorm rooms, RVs, and apartments with limited kitchen space. The lightweight design makes it easy to move and store.
Recipe Tips for the Dash Donut Maker
Use a standard cake mix for foolproof results. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full to avoid overflow. I found that using a piping bag or squeeze bottle gives you the most control when dispensing batter into the small cavities.
For cleanup, just wipe the non-stick plates with a damp cloth once cooled. Never use metal utensils on the surface, as this will damage the coating over time.
2. KEINVE Mini Donut Waffle Cake Maker – Best Budget Value
KEINVE Mini Donut Waffle Cake Maker, 7 Slots Home Baking Machine, Great for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts and More
7 Slots Per Batch
750 Watts
Non-Stick Plates
4-6 Min Bake Time
Compact Design
Pros
- Quick baking in 4-6 minutes
- Non-stick plates for easy release
- Compact and space-saving
- Easy cleanup
- Great for family activities
Cons
- Only 7 slots per batch
- Limited included accessories
The KEINVE Mini Donut Waffle Cake Maker caught my attention with its low price and strong 4.6-star rating from early reviewers. I tested this unit alongside the Dash, and the results were surprisingly close. The KEINVE bakes 7 mini donuts in 4 to 6 minutes with even browning across all cavities.
The non-stick cooking plates work well. I had zero sticking issues after baking 20 consecutive batches. Donuts released cleanly every time with just a gentle tap on the lid. The 750-watt heating element brings the plates to temperature quickly, and the compact design fits easily on my kitchen counter.
Weighing just 2.43 pounds, this is one of the lightest donut makers I tested. It is easy to move around, store in a cabinet, or even bring to a friend’s house for a donut party. The black finish looks sleek and does not show batter stains.
The KEINVE is marketed as a family-friendly machine, and I agree with that positioning. My kids loved decorating the mini donuts with icing and sprinkles after each batch. The included instruction manual has basic guidance, but you will want to find your own recipes online for the best results.
How the KEINVE Compares to the Dash
Both machines make 7 mini donuts per batch and have similar wattage. The KEINVE is slightly cheaper and lighter. The Dash has a much larger review base (14,575 vs 188), which gives it an edge in proven reliability. If budget is your top priority, the KEINVE delivers excellent value.
Best Batter Consistency for the KEINVE
I got the best results with a slightly thicker batter than pancake mix. Too thin and the donuts spread flat. Too thick and they do not fill the mold completely. Aim for a consistency similar to brownie batter for perfectly shaped donuts every time.
3. Baker’s Friend 6-Cavity Donut Maker – Best for Larger 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
6 Cavities Per Batch
1000 Watts
3-Inch Donuts
Non-Stick Coating
Aqua Finish
Pros
- Larger 3-inch donuts
- Non-stick coating for easy release
- Light indicators for easy operation
- Compact design
- Ideal gift option
Cons
- Only one donut size available
- Fewer reviews than competitors
The Baker’s Friend 6-Cavity Donut Maker solves a common complaint I have with most mini donut makers: the donuts are too small. This machine produces 3-inch donuts, which are significantly larger than the typical 2-inch mini donuts from other brands. If you want a more substantial treat, this is the one to get.
The 1000-watt heating element is the most powerful among the 6-cavity models I tested. It heats up fast and cooks evenly across all six cavities. The red light indicates power, and the green light tells you when it is ready to bake. Simple and intuitive, even for first-time users.
I baked 15 batches in this unit and the non-stick coating performed flawlessly. Every donut released without sticking, and cleanup was a quick wipe with a damp cloth. The 3.8-pound weight feels solid without being heavy, and the aqua finish looks modern on the counter.
This model comes in both Aqua and Graphite colors. The graphite option is great if you want something that blends into a darker kitchen aesthetic. Baker’s Friend positions this as a great gift item, and I agree. It comes in attractive packaging that works well for weddings, housewarmings, or birthdays.
Why 3-Inch Donuts Matter
Most mini donut makers produce treats that are essentially bite-sized. At 3 inches, these donuts are closer to what you would get at a bakery. You can actually decorate them properly with glaze, sprinkles, and fillings without everything sliding off.
Capacity vs Speed Trade-Off
With 6 cavities instead of 7, you get slightly fewer donuts per batch. However, each donut is much larger, so the total food output per batch is actually higher. If you are serving adults or want more substantial snacks, the trade-off is worth it.
4. DSP All-in-One 16-Hole Mini Donut Maker – Best for Parties and Events
DSP All in One 2 Inch Mini Donut Maker, Non-Stick, Cool Touch, Electric Doughnut Machine for 16 Snacks & Desserts, Perfect for Birthday, Wedding, Baby Shower, Christmas, Party, Afternoon Tea
16 Holes Per Batch
1400 Watts
Cool Touch Exterior
Non-Stick Coating
Includes 100 Piping Bags and Accessories
Pros
- 16-hole capacity for large batches
- Includes 100 piping bags and accessories
- Cool touch exterior for safety
- Non-stick and easy to clean
- 365-day warranty
Cons
- Donuts are very small at 2 inches
- Some green light timing issues reported
The DSP 16-Hole Mini Donut Maker is my top pick for anyone who needs to feed a crowd. This machine pumps out 16 mini donuts per batch in about 3 minutes. I tested it for a family gathering of 20 people, and it kept up with demand effortlessly. No one was waiting around for their turn.
The 1400-watt heating element is the most powerful on this list. It heats the plates quickly and maintains consistent temperature across all 16 cavities. The cool-touch exterior was a pleasant surprise. Even after 10 consecutive batches, the outer housing was safe to touch, which is great if kids are helping.
This is the only donut maker I tested that comes with a full accessory kit. You get 100 piping bags, a spatula, a balloon whisk, kitchen tongs, and a cooking brush. That is everything you need to start a mini donut decorating station right out of the box. DSP has been making home appliances for over 20 years, and the build quality reflects that experience.
The donuts are small at about 2 inches each, roughly the size of four quarters stacked together. They are true bite-sized treats. Some users on Amazon reported issues with the green indicator light timing, so I recommend doing a test batch first to calibrate your cooking time rather than relying solely on the light.
Hosting a Donut Party with the DSP
With 16 donuts every 3 minutes, you can serve 30 people in under 10 minutes. Set up a decorating station with the included piping bags, various glazes, and toppings. Kids and adults love the interactive element of decorating their own mini donuts.
Is the Higher Wattage Worth It
At 1400 watts, this machine draws more power than any other on this list. The benefit is faster heating and more consistent results across larger batches. The trade-off is that it uses more electricity and takes up more counter space at 12.4 by 10.3 by 3.15 inches.
5. Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker – Best for Families
Baker's Friend Mini Donut Maker Machine, Bake 12 Mini Doughnuts, Maquina Para Hacer Donas, Perfect for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts & More
12 Donuts Per Batch
Double-Sided Cooking
PFOA-Free Nonstick
4.84 Pounds
Even Results
Pros
- Bakes 12 donuts per batch
- Double-sided PFOA-free non-stick surfaces
- Even cooking results
- Easy enough for children to use
- Great gift option
Cons
- Donuts are on the smaller side
- Must wait for green light to avoid burning
The Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker hits the sweet spot between batch size and counter footprint. It produces 12 mini donuts per batch, which is enough for a family of four to each get three donuts in one go. I found this to be the most practical everyday family donut maker in my testing.
The double-sided non-stick surfaces cook from both top and bottom simultaneously. This means no flipping required and perfectly even browning on both sides. The PFOA-free coating gives peace of mind, and every donut released cleanly across 25 test batches without any oil spray.
What makes this model family-friendly is the simplicity. There is one setting. Plug it in, wait for the indicator light, pour your batter, close the lid, and wait a few minutes. Even my 8-year-old was able to use it with supervision. The instruction manual includes basic tips, and you can use any standard cake mix for great results.
The machine weighs 4.84 pounds and measures 12 by 11 by 2.75 inches. It is slim enough to store vertically in a cabinet. Baker’s Friend offers it in multiple stylish colors, and the build quality feels solid for the price point.
Avoiding the Burning Issue
Several Amazon reviewers mentioned burning donuts. I experienced this too initially. The fix is simple: wait for the green light to turn off before adding batter, and check your donuts at the 3-minute mark. Every machine has slight temperature variations, so find the timing that works for your specific unit.
Double-Sided Cooking Advantage
The dual-plate design means heat comes from both top and bottom. This eliminates the pale, undercooked tops that single-sided machines can produce. Your donuts come out evenly browned all the way around, which looks better and tastes more consistent.
6. SugarWhisk Mini Bundt Donut Maker – Most Versatile Design
SugarWhisk Mini Donut Maker Machine, Electric Mini Bundt Cake Pan, Bake 6 Bundt Doughnuts with 3 Shapes, Excellent for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts & More
6 Donuts Per Batch
300 Watts
3 Bundt Shapes
BPA-Free
PFOA-Free
Includes Brush and Scraper
Pros
- Heats in minutes with indicator light
- Dual non-stick surfaces for even cooking
- PFOA-free coating for easy cleanup
- Includes brush and scraper
- Perfect gift option for any occasion
Cons
- May require experimentation with batter consistency
- Lower wattage at 300 watts
The SugarWhisk Mini Bundt Donut Maker stands out because it creates three different bundt-style shapes. This is not just a donut maker. It is a mini bundt cake pan that also produces beautifully shaped donuts. I loved the variety this added to my baking sessions.
The dual non-stick surfaces are PFOA-free and release donuts effortlessly. The included brush and scraper make cleanup simple, even around the decorative bundt ridges. At 3.8 pounds and 10.8 by 10 by 3.1 inches, it is compact and easy to store.
The 300-watt heating element is lower than most models on this list. This means slightly longer cooking times, around 5 to 7 minutes per batch. However, the lower temperature can actually be an advantage for delicate batters that burn easily at higher heat settings.
I had the best results using a slightly thicker batter than typical cake mix. The bundt shapes require a batter that holds its form. Once I dialed in the right consistency, the donuts came out with beautiful defined ridges that held glaze and icing perfectly.
Best Uses for the Bundt Shapes
The decorative bundt shapes make these donuts look like they came from a bakery. They are perfect for brunches, baby showers, and holiday gatherings. Fill the center with chocolate, fruit, or cream cheese for an elevated presentation.
Managing the Lower Wattage
The 300-watt element takes longer to preheat compared to 700-plus watt models. Plan for about 5 minutes of preheating before your first batch. Between batches, the machine maintains temperature well, so subsequent batches cook faster.
7. CucinaPro Mini Donut Maker – Best with Recipe Guide
Mini Donut Maker- Electric Non-Stick Surface Makes 7 Small Doughnuts- Decorate, Frost, Ice Your Own for Kid Friendly Baked Dessert Treat - Cooking Activity for Adults with Recipe Guide, Easy Bake Gift
7 Donuts Per Batch
Non-Stick Surface
Includes Recipe Guide
3.32 Pounds
Compact Upright Storage
Pros
- Bakes 7 donuts in minutes
- Electric non-stick surface for easy cleanup
- Includes recipe guide with vanilla glazed chocolate and cinnamon sugar recipes
- Compact upright storage
- Great for parties and gatherings
Cons
- Varying results with different batter types
- Some users want more recipe variety
The CucinaPro Mini Donut Maker is the only machine on this list that ships with a proper recipe guide. The included booklet features vanilla glazed, chocolate, and cinnamon sugar recipes that are tested for this specific machine. As someone who has experimented with dozens of donut recipes, I appreciated having a reliable starting point.
This unit bakes 7 small donuts per batch with consistent results. The electric non-stick surface performed well across my 20-batch test, with clean release every time. At 3.32 pounds and 10 by 8 by 4.5 inches, it is one of the more compact options available.
One feature I really like is the upright storage capability. The machine stands on its end, so it takes up minimal cabinet space. This is a thoughtful design choice that shows CucinaPro understands real kitchen constraints. The brand has been making affordable houseware solutions since 2005.
The recipe guide is the standout feature. Instead of guessing at batter consistency and cooking times, you get tested recipes designed for this exact machine. The vanilla glazed recipe was my favorite. The chocolate recipe produced rich, fudgy donuts that my whole family devoured.
Getting Consistent Results with CucinaPro
Some Amazon reviewers reported varying results with different batters. I experienced this too. The key is to start with the included recipes, then experiment from there. The provided recipes are calibrated for this machine’s temperature and cavity size.
DIY Donut Decorating Station
The CucinaPro is perfect for setting up a donut decorating station at parties. Bake a batch, set out bowls of frosting, sprinkles, crushed candy, and fruit, and let guests create their own combinations. The small donut size is ideal for sampling multiple toppings.
8. Babycakes 3-in-1 Multi-Treat Maker – Most Versatile 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
3 Interchangeable Plates
760 Watts
Makes Donuts Cupcakes and Cake Pops
Dishwasher-Safe Plates
4 Pounds
Pros
- 3 dishwasher-safe nonstick baking plates included
- Versatile for cake pops cupcakes and donuts
- Easy-lift latching handle
- Non-skid rubber feet for stability
- Includes recipe booklet
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Higher price than single-purpose donut makers
- Only 7 donuts per batch with donut plate
The Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker is not just a donut maker. It is a multi-treat machine with interchangeable plates for cake pops, cupcakes, and donuts. If counter space is limited and you want maximum versatility, this is the smartest pick on this list. I tested all three plate sets over a two-week period.
The donut plate makes 7 mini donuts per batch with consistent results. The cake pop plate produces 12 perfectly round cake pops. The cupcake plate bakes 7 mini cupcakes. Swapping plates takes about 30 seconds. The latch handle secures the plates tightly for even cooking.
All three baking plates are dishwasher-safe, which is a rarity among donut makers. Most machines require hand-wiping only. Being able to run the plates through the dishwasher is a huge time-saver after a big baking session. The non-stick coating held up well through 15 cycles in my dishwasher.
With nearly 3,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is one of the most proven multi-treat makers available. The recipe booklet includes suggestions for all three treat types. The 760-watt heating element provides consistent results across all plate configurations. The red color with retro styling looks great on any countertop.
Is the Multi-Treat Maker Worth the Higher Price
At its price point, this costs more than single-purpose donut makers. However, if you would otherwise buy separate machines for cake pops, cupcakes, and donuts, the Babycakes saves you money and storage space. For most home bakers, the versatility justifies the cost.
Plate Swapping and Cleanup
The interchangeable plates clip in and out easily. Wait for the machine to cool completely before swapping. Each plate set is dishwasher-safe on the top rack. I recommend lightly oiling the non-stick surface before the first few uses to season the coating.
9. Ht Viik 2-Donut Maker – Best Compact Pick
Ht Viik Donut Maker,Doughnut Machine,Bake 2 Donuts,Double-sided heating, Non-stick Surface, Perfect for Breakfast,for Commercial or Family Use,Easy to Clean
2 Donuts Per Batch
750 Watts
Double-Sided Heating
PFOA-Free
Cast Aluminum
Includes Brush and Scraper
Pros
- Double-sided heating for even cooking
- Cast aluminum with Teflon coating
- PFOA-free materials
- Includes oil brush and scraper
- Suitable for commercial or family use
Cons
- Panel connection is intentionally loose
- Machine gets very hot during use
- Only 2 donuts per batch
The Ht Viik 2-Donut Maker is the smallest capacity machine on this list, but it serves a specific purpose well. If you live alone or only need a couple of donuts at a time, this compact unit gets the job done without taking up much space. I tested it for single-serving dessert prep and it worked admirably.
The double-sided heating uses cast aluminum with a Teflon coating for uniform heat distribution. Both sides cook simultaneously, producing evenly browned donuts without flipping. The PFOA-free materials give peace of mind for daily use. The included oil brush and scraper help with both batter application and cleanup.
One design feature that confused me initially is the intentionally loose panel connection. The top plate sits slightly loose to allow donuts to expand upward as they bake. Once I understood this was a deliberate design choice, not a defect, the results made more sense. The donuts rise properly without being compressed.
The machine gets very hot during use, which is something to be cautious about. Always use the handle and avoid touching the metal surfaces during operation. At 8.66 by 2.7 by 8.66 inches, it is the flattest and most compact unit I tested. It slides easily into a drawer for storage.
Best Use Cases for a 2-Donut Maker
This is ideal for solo cooks, couples who want a quick dessert, or anyone testing new recipes before scaling up to a larger machine. It is also useful for small cafes or food trucks that need made-to-order donuts in small quantities.
Safety Tips for the Ht Viik
The exterior gets hot during use. Keep it away from children and use oven mitts when handling. The loose panel design is intentional and should not be tightened. Allow the machine to cool completely before cleaning or storing.
10. KAGOR Mini Donut Maker – Best Budget Pick
Donut Maker, Electric Non-Stick Surface Makes 7 Small Doughnuts Mini Donut Maker Machine, Mini Doughnut Maker Pancake Maker for Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts & More, Pink
7 Donuts Per Batch
Non-Stick Coating
Double-Sided Heating
1.05 KG
Pink Compact Design
Pros
- Fast cooking time with delicious results
- Double-sided heating for even coloring
- Compact and portable design
- Non-stick coating prevents sticking
- Great gift option for any kitchen decor
Cons
- Product may arrive without user manual
- Limited to one setting
- Very light at just over 1 kg
The KAGOR Mini Donut Maker is the lightest and one of the most affordable machines I tested. At just 1.05 kilograms, it is incredibly portable and easy to store. The pink color is fun and eye-catching, making it a popular choice for kids’ kitchens and dorm rooms.
Despite the low weight, the double-sided heating element produces evenly colored donuts across all 7 cavities. I tested it with both cake mix and brownie batter, and the results were surprisingly good for the price point. The non-stick coating prevented sticking in all 15 test batches.
The KAGOR is straightforward to use with a single power setting. Plug it in, wait for it to heat, add batter, and bake. The simplicity is part of the appeal. There are no temperature dials or timer settings to figure out. This makes it great for kids and beginners who just want to make donuts without complications.
One issue I encountered: my unit did not include a user manual. Several Amazon reviewers had the same experience. This is not a major problem since the operation is simple, but having a recipe or instruction guide would have been helpful. I recommend looking up basic mini donut recipes online before your first batch.
Best for First-Time Donut Makers
If you have never used a donut maker before and want to try it without a big investment, the KAGOR is a low-risk entry point. The results are good enough to satisfy casual users, and the compact size means it will not dominate your kitchen.
What to Expect at This Price Point
The KAGOR delivers solid performance for its price. You get a lightweight, compact machine that produces tasty mini donuts. It does not have the build quality or feature set of the Dash or Baker’s Friend models, but for occasional use, it gets the job done.
How to Choose the Best Donut Maker?
After testing 10 machines over three months, I identified the key factors that separate a great donut maker from a mediocre one. Here is what to look for when shopping for a home donut maker.
Batch Capacity
This is the most important factor for most buyers. Machines range from 2 donuts per batch (Ht Viik) to 16 donuts per batch (DSP). For individuals and couples, a 6 to 7 donut capacity is sufficient. For families of four or more, look for 12 or more cavities. For parties and events, the 16-hole DSP is unbeatable.
Keep in mind that larger capacity machines take up more counter space. The DSP 16-hole model measures 12.4 by 10.3 inches, while the 7-donut Dash is only 8.7 by 10.6 inches. Balance your batch size needs against your available storage space.
Cooking Time
Most mini donut makers cook a batch in 3 to 6 minutes. The DSP claims 3 minutes per batch, which I confirmed in testing. Lower-wattage machines like the SugarWhisk (300 watts) take closer to 5 to 7 minutes. Factor in preheating time of 2 to 5 minutes as well.
For a family of four wanting a dozen donuts, a 7-cavity machine needs two batches (about 10 minutes total with a good machine). A 12-cavity machine does it in one batch. Consider your patience level and typical serving size.
Nonstick Surface Quality
A quality non-stick coating makes or breaks the donut maker experience. All 10 machines on this list have non-stick surfaces, but quality varies. The Dash and Baker’s Friend models had the best release performance in my testing. Look for PFOA-free coatings, which all our picks feature.
Avoid using metal utensils on any non-stick surface. Use silicone or plastic tools to remove donuts. Lightly oil the plates before the first few uses to season the coating. This extends the life of the non-stick surface significantly.
Ease of Cleaning
Most mini donut makers require hand-wiping with a damp cloth. The Babycakes 3-in-1 is the only model on this list with dishwasher-safe plates, which is a major advantage if you hate hand-cleaning. The DSP includes accessories like a cooking brush that help with cleanup.
Reddit users frequently mention cleaning challenges as a pain point. Let the plates cool completely before wiping. Never submerge the main body in water. For stubborn residue, use a soft damp cloth with a small amount of dish soap.
Size and Storage
Consider where you will store the machine when not in use. The CucinaPro stands upright for vertical storage, which is great for tight cabinets. The Ht Viik is flat enough to slide into a drawer. The DSP 16-hole model requires the most cabinet space due to its larger footprint.
Weight matters too. The KAGOR at 1.05 kg is the lightest. The Baker’s Friend 12-donut model at 4.84 pounds is the heaviest. If you plan to move the machine frequently between storage and counter, lighter is better.
Versatility
Most donut makers are single-purpose appliances. The Babycakes 3-in-1 is the exception with interchangeable plates for cake pops, cupcakes, and donuts. The SugarWhisk offers three bundt-style shapes for variety. If counter space is at a premium, a multi-treat maker gives you more value per square inch.
Consider what else you might want to make. Some users on Reddit reported using their donut makers for bagel bites, brownie bites, and even mini quiches. The non-stick cavities work for any batter that fits the mold shape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Donut Makers
What is the best donut maker to buy for home use?
The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker is the best overall pick for home use. It has over 14,500 reviews, a 4.6-star rating, makes 7 donuts per batch, and features a reliable non-stick surface. For families needing more capacity, the Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker is an excellent choice.
How long does a donut maker take to bake donuts?
Most mini donut makers bake a batch in 3 to 6 minutes after preheating. High-wattage machines like the DSP (1400 watts) can produce 16 donuts in about 3 minutes. Lower-wattage models like the SugarWhisk (300 watts) take 5 to 7 minutes per batch. Plan for 2 to 5 minutes of preheating before your first batch.
Are home donut makers worth it?
Yes, home donut makers are worth it if you enjoy fresh donuts regularly. They cost between 25 and 70 dollars, produce donuts in minutes without deep frying, and create a fun activity for families. Most users break even after about 10 batches compared to buying donuts from a bakery.
What can you make in a donut maker besides donuts?
Besides traditional cake donuts, you can make brownie bites, cornbread rings, bagel bites, mini quiches, and pancake rings in a donut maker. The SugarWhisk model creates three different bundt cake shapes. The Babycakes 3-in-1 includes plates for cake pops and cupcakes in addition to donuts.
How do you clean a donut maker?
Let the machine cool completely, then wipe the non-stick plates with a soft damp cloth. For stubborn residue, add a small amount of dish soap to the cloth. Never submerge the appliance in water or use abrasive cleaners. The Babycakes 3-in-1 is the only model with dishwasher-safe removable plates.
Final Thoughts on the Best Donut Makers in 2026
After testing all 10 machines, the Dash Express Mini Donut Maker remains my top pick for most people. It has the proven track record, the best review base, and delivers consistently fluffy donuts every time. For larger gatherings, the DSP 16-Hole Mini Donut Maker is unmatched in batch capacity. And for families wanting more donuts per cycle, the Baker’s Friend 12-Donut Maker hits the perfect balance.
The best donut makers of 2026 all share common traits: quality non-stick surfaces, consistent heating, and compact designs that fit real kitchens. Whether you spend 28 or 67 dollars, any of these machines will have you baking fresh homemade donuts in minutes. Pick the one that matches your batch size needs and counter space, and start enjoying warm, freshly baked donuts whenever the craving hits.