There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh donuts wafting through your kitchen on a lazy Sunday morning. But who wants to deal with a deep fryer, messy oil, and the guilt that comes with it? Enter the Dash mini donut maker, a compact appliance that promises fluffy, baked donuts in minutes. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the Dash Express Mini Donut Maker and compare it with two other popular Dash mini makers to help you decide which one deserves a spot on your countertop.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a fun weekend activity, a college student in a dorm, or just someone with a sweet tooth, this guide is for you. We’ll break down the key features, weigh the pros and cons, and answer your burning questions. If you’re also exploring other countertop gadgets, you might find our cosori lite air fryer review helpful for quick meals beyond donuts.

Buying Guide

When you’re shopping for a mini donut maker, a few key factors can make or break your experience. We’ve evaluated these three Dash models based on the criteria that matter most for everyday use. Here’s what to look for:

Cooking Surface and Nonstick Quality

The heart of any donut maker is its cooking surface. A quality nonstick coating ensures your donuts release easily and cleanup is a breeze. The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker features a double-sided nonstick surface, which we found excellent for hassle-free donut removal. The Dash MultiMaker Mini Waffle Maker takes it a step further with removable plates that are dishwasher safe, offering ultimate convenience. Meanwhile, the Dash Mini Waffle Maker with Ceramic Nonstick uses a ceramic coating that we rated highly for both release and easy wiping.

For those who prioritize effortless cleanup, the ceramic coating on the Dash Mini Waffle Maker is a standout. It truly lives up to its promise of wiping clean with a damp cloth. If you plan to make batters that tend to stick, a ceramic or removable plate option might be your best bet.

Size and Portability

Countertop space is precious, especially in small kitchens, dorms, or RVs. All three Dash models are compact, but they differ in footprint. The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker is lightweight and easy to store, making it perfect for tight spaces. The Dash Mini Waffle Maker with Ceramic Nonstick is similarly petite, ideal for tucking into a cabinet. The Dash MultiMaker is slightly larger due to its removable plates but still compact enough for most countertops.

Consider how often you’ll use it and where you’ll store it. If you’re short on space, any of these will fit, but the donut maker and the ceramic waffle maker are the most space-saving options. For more kitchen organization tips, check out our CAROTE pots and pans review to see how other compact cookware can fit into your routine.

Versatility

While a dedicated donut maker is fantastic for sweets, some users prefer a multi-functional appliance. The Dash MultiMaker wins on versatility with its removable waffle and griddle plates, allowing you to make waffles, eggs, and more. The Dash Mini Waffle Maker with Ceramic Nonstick is also surprisingly versatile, handling chaffles, hash browns, paninis, and even cookies. The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker is more specialized, but it does its job exceptionally well.

Think about your cooking habits. If you love experimenting beyond donuts, the MultiMaker or the ceramic waffle maker might serve you better. For a dedicated donut machine, the Express model is your go-to. If you’re exploring other versatile cookware, you might enjoy our Gotham Steel cookware set review for more options.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

No one wants a kitchen gadget that’s a pain to clean. The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker’s nonstick surface makes wiping it down a cinch. The Dash Mini Waffle Maker with Ceramic Nonstick also shines here, with a surface that we verified to be exceptionally easy to maintain. The Dash MultiMaker goes a step further with dishwasher-safe plates, which we found to be a game-changer for busy mornings.

All three models feature indicator lights to take the guesswork out of cooking, and their compact designs mean they don’t take up much space on your counter. For more cookware that simplifies cleanup, see our instant pot pro 8 qt review for another easy-to-clean appliance.

Final Thoughts

After reviewing all three Dash mini makers, we’re confident there’s one for every type of home cook. If you’re a donut enthusiast who wants a dedicated, fuss-free machine for classic mini donuts, the Dash Express Mini Donut Maker, 7 Donuts, Aqua is your perfect match. On the other hand, if you crave versatility and the ability to switch between waffles, griddle items, and donuts, the Dash MultiMaker Mini Waffle Maker offers the flexibility you need. Both are excellent choices that bring the joy of homemade treats to your kitchen, so pick the one that fits your lifestyle and get ready to enjoy delicious creations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make mini donuts in a Dash Mini Waffle Maker?

Yes, you can! While the Dash Mini Waffle Maker is designed for waffles, you can use donut batter to create donut-shaped treats. The nonstick surface ensures they release easily, though the shape will be waffle-like rather than round. For a true donut shape, the Dash Express Mini Donut Maker is the better choice.

How do you clean a Dash mini donut maker?

Cleaning the Dash Express Mini Donut Maker is simple. Unplug it and let it cool completely, then wipe the nonstick surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or metal utensils to protect the coating. The removable plates on the Dash MultiMaker are dishwasher safe for even easier cleanup.

Is the Dash mini donut maker worth it in 2026?

Absolutely, especially if you love fresh donuts but want to avoid the mess of frying. It’s a compact, affordable appliance that delivers quick results. In 2026, it remains a top pick for dorm rooms, small kitchens, and family fun. If you’re also considering other small appliances, our guide to the best carbon steel pan for eggs might interest you.

What batters can I use in a mini donut maker?

You can use cake batter, pancake batter, or even a simple donut batter recipe. The Dash Express Mini Donut Maker heats evenly to produce fluffy donuts. You can also experiment with gluten-free or vegan batters. Just make sure the batter is not too thick or too thin for best results.