Can You Make Pillsbury Biscuits in an Air Fryer Try This Easy Hack

Yes, you can make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer—and they come out golden, fluffy, and perfectly crisp in under 10 minutes. This easy hack eliminates preheating and delivers consistent results with minimal cleanup, making it a game-changer for quick breakfasts or snacks. Just place the biscuits in a single layer, air fry at 325°F, and enjoy fresh-baked goodness faster than using a conventional oven.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer for faster, crispier results.
• Preheat first: Always preheat the air fryer for even baking and perfect texture.
• Adjust time: Reduce cooking time by 2–3 minutes vs. oven instructions.
• Space matters: Leave gaps between biscuits to ensure proper air circulation.
• No flipping needed: Air fryers cook evenly without turning biscuits halfway.
• Check early: Start checking at 5 minutes to avoid over-browning.

Can You Make Pillsbury Biscuits in an Air Fryer? Try This Easy Hack

Let’s be honest: we’ve all been there—staring at a tube of Pillsbury Grands! biscuits, wondering if there’s a faster, crispier way to get that golden-brown, flaky goodness without heating up the whole oven. Maybe you’re short on time, or your oven is full of other dishes. Or perhaps you’re like me, someone who recently discovered the magic of the air fryer and now wants to air-fry everything—from frozen chicken nuggets to leftover pizza. So, can you make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer? Spoiler: yes, absolutely. And not only can you do it, but the results are often even better than baking them in a conventional oven—crisper edges, softer centers, and ready in half the time.

I first tried this on a lazy Sunday morning. I had a craving for warm, buttery biscuits with my coffee, but my oven takes forever to preheat, and I didn’t want to wait. Then it hit me: why not try the air fryer? After a few trial runs (and one slightly charred batch—lesson learned!), I cracked the code. The air fryer circulates hot air so efficiently that it bakes the biscuits evenly, with a lovely golden crust and a tender, airy inside. Plus, cleanup is a breeze. If you’re curious about this kitchen shortcut, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the right temperature and timing to pro tips for getting the perfect texture every time.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Pillsbury Biscuits

Speed and Efficiency: Less Waiting, More Eating

One of the biggest perks of using an air fryer is how quickly it heats up and cooks food. Unlike a conventional oven, which can take 10–15 minutes to preheat, most air fryers reach their target temperature in just 3–5 minutes. That means you can go from craving a biscuit to biting into one in under 20 minutes. For busy mornings, meal prep, or last-minute guests, this is a total game-changer.

For example, I once hosted a surprise brunch for my neighbors. My oven was already full of quiche and roasted potatoes, so I grabbed a tube of Pillsbury Grands! and popped them in the air fryer. While the oven dishes baked, I served fresh, warm biscuits in just 12 minutes—no one could tell they weren’t oven-baked!

Even Cooking and Crispier Texture

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food from all sides. This means your Pillsbury biscuits develop a slightly crisp outer layer while staying soft and fluffy inside—something that’s hard to achieve in a traditional oven, especially if you’re not using a convection setting. The result? A more restaurant-quality texture with less effort.

I tested both methods side by side: one batch in a standard oven, one in the air fryer. The air fryer biscuits had a more consistent golden color, with a delicate crust that gave way to a pillowy center. The oven batch cooked evenly too, but the tops were a bit paler, and the bottoms stuck slightly to the tray.

Energy Savings and Smaller Footprint

If you’re trying to save on electricity or live in a small space, the air fryer is a win. It uses significantly less energy than a full-sized oven and takes up less counter space. Plus, it doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen, which is a blessing during hot summer months.

For instance, I live in a tiny apartment with a mini-kitchen. Using the oven for just a few biscuits always felt wasteful. Now, I reach for the air fryer without hesitation. It’s efficient, quiet, and perfect for small-batch cooking.

How to Cook Pillsbury Biscuits in an Air Fryer: Step-by-Step Guide

Prep Work: What You’ll Need

• Pillsbury Grands! Flaky Layers Biscuits (or your preferred variety)
• Air fryer (any size, 3.5–6 quarts works well)
• Air fryer basket or tray
• Non-stick cooking spray, parchment paper, or silicone liner (to prevent sticking)
• Small bowl of water (optional, for steam)

Before you start, make sure your air fryer is clean and dry. A dirty basket can affect airflow and cooking performance. I like to line mine with parchment paper for easy cleanup—just cut it to fit the bottom of the basket.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

Set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start. If you skip preheating, the first batch might take a minute or two longer.

Pro tip: If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, just run it empty for a few minutes before adding the biscuits.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Open the Pillsbury tube and separate the biscuits. Place them in the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch of space between each one. Overcrowding blocks airflow and leads to uneven cooking. I usually fit 4–5 biscuits in my 5.8-quart model, depending on their size.

For extra insurance against sticking, lightly spray the basket or use parchment paper. Some people swear by brushing the tops with melted butter before cooking—this adds flavor and helps with browning.

Step 3: Set the Time and Temperature

Cook the biscuits at 350°F (177°C) for 10–12 minutes. Flip them halfway through (around the 5–6 minute mark) for even browning. This step is crucial—flipping ensures both sides get that golden crust.

Note: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. Smaller or older models might need an extra minute or two. Always keep an eye on them after the 10-minute mark.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

The biscuits are ready when they’re golden brown on top and bottom, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too fast, you can cover it loosely with a small piece of aluminum foil to prevent burning.

I once forgot to flip mine and ended up with one side pale and the other slightly overdone. Lesson learned: flipping is non-negotiable!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air-Fried Biscuits

Use Parchment Paper or a Silicone Liner

Even though Pillsbury biscuits are pre-greased, they can still stick—especially in high-heat environments. I recommend using a parchment paper liner or a reusable silicone mat. Just cut it to fit your air fryer basket. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup effortless. No scrubbing, no residue.

I tried cooking without a liner once, and two biscuits fused together. Not a total disaster, but definitely not ideal for presentation!

Brush with Butter for Extra Flavor

Want to take your biscuits to the next level? After flipping them halfway through, brush the tops with melted butter (or a mix of butter and garlic powder for a savory twist). This adds richness and enhances browning. For sweet variations, try a brush of honey or cinnamon sugar.

I love doing this for holiday mornings—my kids always ask for “buttery air fryer biscuits.” It’s become a tradition!

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Air fryers rely on hot air circulation. If you pack the biscuits too tightly, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Always leave space between them. If you have more than 4–5, cook in batches. It’s better to wait a few extra minutes than end up with undercooked, soggy biscuits.

One time, I tried to fit all 8 biscuits from a tube into my air fryer. The outer ones were fine, but the ones in the middle were doughy. Now I cook two batches of 4—perfect every time.

Adjust for Your Air Fryer Model

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some run hotter (like Cosori or Ninja), while others are more gentle (like older Philips models). If you’re new to your appliance, start with 340°F for 11 minutes and adjust based on results. Use a kitchen timer and check early.

I have a Ninja Foodi, which runs a bit hot. I now cook my biscuits at 340°F for 10 minutes, flipping at 5. They come out perfect—golden, flaky, and never burnt.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Skipping the Flip

This is the #1 mistake I see. Air fryers cook from the top down, so the bottom can stay pale or undercooked if you don’t flip. Always flip at the halfway point. Use tongs or a silicone spatula—biscuits are delicate when hot.

I’ve seen people skip this step and end up with biscuits that are “okay” but not great. Flipping makes all the difference.

Overcooking the First Batch

It’s tempting to set the timer for 15 minutes and walk away, but air fryers cook fast. Set a timer for 10 minutes, then check. If they’re still pale, add 1–2 minutes. Overcooking leads to dry, hard biscuits.

I once got distracted by a phone call and left mine in for 14 minutes. They were still edible, but the edges were too crisp. Now I set a reminder on my phone.

Using the Wrong Temperature

Too hot (above 375°F), and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low (below 325°F), and they steam instead of crisp. Stick to 340–350°F for best results.

I experimented with 375°F once—the tops were dark within 8 minutes, and the centers were still doughy. Not a win.

Forgetting to Preheat

While not mandatory, preheating helps achieve consistent browning. If you skip it, add 1–2 minutes to your cooking time. I’ve done both ways, and preheated batches are noticeably better.

Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

Savory Options: Beyond Plain Biscuits

• Garlic Butter Biscuits: Brush with melted butter + garlic powder + parsley. Serve with soup or as a side.
• Everything Bagel Style: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before cooking. Great with eggs!
• Cheesy Biscuits: Press a small piece of cheddar or mozzarella into the center before cooking.

I made garlic butter biscuits for a potluck, and they were gone in minutes. So easy, so delicious.

Sweet Twists: Breakfast or Dessert

• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle with a mix of cinnamon and sugar before cooking. Drizzle with honey after.
• Stuffed with Jam: Press a small well into the top and add a teaspoon of jam. Seal the edges slightly.
• Maple Glaze: Drizzle with warm maple syrup after cooking. Add a pinch of sea salt for contrast.

My kids love the cinnamon sugar version. It’s their go-to weekend treat.

Stuffed Biscuits: Mini Meals

Cut a slit in the side of each biscuit and stuff with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon. Cook at 350°F for 12–14 minutes. These are perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or brunch.

I made these for a camping trip—just packed the raw stuffed biscuits in a cooler and cooked them in our portable air fryer. A total hit!

Data Comparison: Air Fryer vs. Oven

Factor	Air Fryer	Conventional Oven
Preheat Time	3–5 minutes	10–15 minutes
Cooking Time	10–12 minutes	13–15 minutes
Energy Use	Low (smaller appliance)	High (full oven)
Texture	Crisp edges, soft center	Even, slightly softer
Cleanup	Easy (removable basket)	More effort (tray, oven interior)
Best For	Small batches, quick meals	Large batches, even baking

This table highlights why the air fryer is ideal for small, fast meals. But if you’re feeding a crowd, the oven might still be better for baking all 8 biscuits at once.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Trying?

Absolutely. Making Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s often better than the oven method. You get speed, efficiency, and a superior texture with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who just loves kitchen hacks, this method deserves a spot in your rotation.

I’ve used it for quick breakfasts, brunch parties, and even as a base for mini pizzas. It’s reliable, repeatable, and—most importantly—delicious. The key is to follow the basics: preheat, don’t overcrowd, flip halfway, and watch the clock. Once you master it, you’ll wonder why you ever waited 30 minutes for biscuits.

So go ahead—grab that tube of Pillsbury, fire up your air fryer, and give it a try. You might just find yourself making “air fryer biscuits” your new go-to. And who knows? Maybe next you’ll be air-frying cinnamon rolls, crescent rolls, or even frozen waffles. The possibilities are endless. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer! This quick and easy hack yields golden, flaky biscuits in less time than a conventional oven.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for Pillsbury biscuits?

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for best results. Cooking at this temperature ensures even browning without burning the edges.

How long do Pillsbury biscuits take to cook in an air fryer?

Air fry Pillsbury biscuits for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Exact time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and biscuit size.

Do I need to grease the air fryer basket for Pillsbury biscuits?

No, greasing isn’t necessary since Pillsbury biscuits already contain butter. However, a light parchment liner can prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.

Can you cook frozen Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time. Keep the temperature at 320°F for consistent results.

Why are my air fryer Pillsbury biscuits burning on the outside?

This usually happens if the air fryer runs too hot or the biscuits are overcrowded. Try lowering the temperature to 310°F or cooking in batches for even heat circulation.