Can You Bake Biscuits in an Air Fryer Discover the Perfect Crispy Treat

Yes, you can bake biscuits in an air fryer—and they come out perfectly golden, crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside in half the time of a conventional oven. With no preheating required and easy cleanup, air fryer biscuits are a game-changer for quick breakfasts or last-minute snacks. Just adjust cook time and temperature, and enjoy bakery-quality results with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bake biscuits in an air fryer for a quick, crispy result with less oil.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even baking and optimal texture.
• Use parchment paper or silicone liners to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Adjust cooking time to 8–12 minutes depending on size and air fryer model.
• Flip biscuits halfway for uniform browning and crispiness on all sides.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and reheat in the air fryer.

Can You Bake Biscuits in an Air Fryer? Discover the Perfect Crispy Treat

Imagine the aroma of golden, flaky biscuits wafting through your kitchen—crispy on the outside, tender and buttery on the inside. Now picture achieving this perfection in less than half the time of a conventional oven, with minimal preheating, energy efficiency, and no hot kitchen. This isn’t a dream; it’s the reality of baking biscuits in an air fryer. Once considered a niche appliance for reheating leftovers or frying chicken, the air fryer has evolved into a versatile kitchen powerhouse, capable of baking, roasting, and even proofing dough. Among its many talents, baking biscuits stands out as one of the most satisfying and surprisingly effective uses.

But can you really bake biscuits in an air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes—and the results are often better than expected. Whether you’re using store-bought biscuit dough, homemade buttermilk biscuits, or even gluten-free or vegan alternatives, the air fryer delivers consistent, evenly cooked, and deliciously crisp results. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from understanding how air fryers work to step-by-step baking instructions, troubleshooting common issues, and even creative variations to elevate your biscuit game. By the end, you’ll not only know how to bake biscuits in an air fryer but also why it might become your new favorite method.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science Behind Perfect Biscuits

Understanding Convection Cooking

At the heart of every air fryer is a high-powered fan and a heating element that work in tandem to create rapid convection cooking. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat from the top and bottom, air fryers circulate hot air at high speeds around the food. This process, known as convection, ensures even heat distribution and faster cooking times. For biscuits, this means the exterior crisps up quickly while the interior bakes through without drying out. The result? A golden, flaky crust with a soft, airy center—the hallmark of a perfect biscuit.

Why Air Fryers Excel at Baking Biscuits

There are several reasons why air fryers are ideal for baking biscuits:

• Even Browning: The circulating air eliminates hot spots, reducing the risk of burnt edges or undercooked centers.
• Speed: Most air fryers preheat in 2–3 minutes and cook biscuits in 8–12 minutes, compared to 15–20 minutes in a conventional oven.
• Energy Efficiency: Smaller cooking chamber means less energy is wasted, making it a greener choice.
• Moisture Control: Unlike ovens, air fryers vent excess moisture, preventing soggy bottoms—a common issue with dense biscuit dough.

Additionally, air fryers often have preset modes (like “Bake” or “Air Fry”) that simplify the process. For example, a Philips Airfryer’s “Bake” setting maintains a steady 325°F (163°C), ideal for biscuits, while Ninja models offer “Air Crisp” for extra browning.

Key Features to Look For

Not all air fryers are created equal. To bake biscuits effectively, consider these features:

• Size and Capacity: A 5–7 quart basket can hold 4–6 standard biscuits. Larger models (8+ quarts) allow for more biscuits or larger shapes.
• Adjustable Temperature: Look for models with a range of 200°F–400°F (93°C–205°C) for flexibility.
• Non-Stick or Removable Baskets: Makes cleanup easier, especially with sticky dough or cheese-topped variations.
• Rotisserie or Accessory Kits: Useful for rotating biscuits halfway through cooking if your model lacks even airflow.

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

Preparing Your Air Fryer and Ingredients

Before you start, ensure your air fryer is clean and preheated. Here’s how to set up:

1. Preheat: Turn on the air fryer to 350°F (177°C) for 3–5 minutes. This mimics a traditional oven’s preheat and ensures even cooking.
2. Prepare the Basket: Lightly grease the basket with non-stick spray, parchment paper, or a silicone liner. Avoid flour-based sprays, as they can burn at high temperatures.
3. Prepare the Dough: Whether using store-bought (e.g., Pillsbury Grands) or homemade, roll or cut biscuits into uniform 1-inch thick rounds. For homemade, chill the dough for 10 minutes to prevent spreading.

Baking Time and Temperature

Follow these guidelines based on biscuit type:

Biscuit Type	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Store-Bought (e.g., Pillsbury)	350°F (177°C)	8–10 minutes	Flip halfway for even browning
Homemade (Buttermilk)	325°F (163°C)	10–12 minutes	Brush with butter for shine
Gluten-Free or Vegan	320°F (160°C)	12–14 minutes	Check for doneness early
Mini or Drop Biscuits	350°F (177°C)	6–8 minutes	No flipping needed

Step-by-Step Baking Process

Here’s how to bake biscuits in an air fryer:

1. Arrange Biscuits: Place 3–4 biscuits in the basket, leaving 1 inch between them for expansion. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
2. Bake: Insert the basket and set the timer. For most models, start with 8 minutes.
3. Flip (Optional): After 5 minutes, flip biscuits using tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning, especially on the bottom.
4. Check Doneness: At the timer’s end, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the biscuits are done. If not, add 1–2 minutes.
5. Rest: Let biscuits cool in the basket for 2 minutes to set. This prevents crumbling when handling.

Pro Tip: For a golden crust, brush the tops with melted butter, milk, or egg wash before baking. For extra flavor, sprinkle with garlic powder, cheese, or herbs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Biscuits Are Too Dry or Crumbly

Overcooking is the primary culprit. To fix:

• Reduce Temperature: Lower by 25°F (14°C) and extend time slightly (e.g., 325°F for 11 minutes).
• Add Moisture: Brush dough with buttermilk or egg wash before baking.
• Use a Lid (for some models): If your air fryer has a lid, use it for the first 5 minutes to retain steam.

Example: One user reported dry biscuits with a 375°F setting. Switching to 325°F resolved the issue.

Biscuits Are Undercooked or Dense

This often happens with dense dough or overcrowding:

• Preheat Thoroughly: Never skip the 3–5 minute preheat.
• Space Properly: Allow 1 inch between biscuits for airflow.
• Check Dough Consistency: Homemade dough should be soft but not sticky. Add 1 tbsp flour if too wet.

Uneven Browning or Burnt Bottoms

Air fryers can have hot spots. Solutions:

• Flip Midway: As mentioned earlier, flipping ensures even heat exposure.
• Rotate the Basket: If your model lacks even airflow, rotate 180° halfway.
• Use Parchment Paper: A liner prevents direct contact with the basket, reducing burnt bottoms.

Pro Tip: For extra-crispy bottoms, lightly oil the parchment paper before placing biscuits.

Creative Variations and Recipes

Cheesy Garlic Herb Biscuits

Transform plain biscuits into a savory delight:

• Add ½ cup shredded cheddar and 1 tbsp minced garlic to the dough.
• Brush with garlic butter (2 tbsp melted butter + 1 tsp garlic powder) before baking.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan and dried parsley post-baking.

Result: A crispy, cheesy, aromatic biscuit perfect with soups or as a side.

Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits

For a dessert twist:

• Roll out biscuit dough into a ¼-inch thick rectangle.
• Spread with 1 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
• Roll into a log, slice into 1-inch rounds, and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Pro Tip: Drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze (½ cup sugar + 1 tbsp milk) after cooling.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Adapt recipes for dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill) and add 1 tbsp psyllium husk for elasticity.
• Vegan: Replace butter with vegan margarine (e.g., Earth Balance) and buttermilk with almond milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice.
• Egg-Free: Skip egg wash and use plant-based milk for brushing.

Note: Gluten-free/vegan dough may require 1–2 extra minutes. Check for a firm, golden crust.

Why Air Fryer Biscuits Are Better: The Benefits

Speed and Convenience

Air fryers cut baking time by 30–50%. No preheating wait, no oven to clean—just pop the basket in, set the timer, and enjoy fresh biscuits in under 15 minutes. For busy mornings or last-minute guests, this is a game-changer.

Texture and Flavor Advantages

The rapid convection creates a superior texture:

• Crispy Exterior: The circulating air dehydrates the outer layer, creating a flaky, crackly crust.
• Moist Interior: Shorter cook times preserve the dough’s moisture, avoiding the dryness of oven-baked biscuits.
• Enhanced Flavor: Maillard reaction (browning) occurs faster, intensifying the buttery, golden notes.

Testimonial: “I was skeptical, but my air fryer biscuits were crispier than my oven’s, with no burnt edges!” – Sarah, home baker.

Health and Energy Savings

Air fryers use up to 75% less energy than conventional ovens, reducing your carbon footprint. They also require no oil for non-stick baking, making them a healthier option (though butter brushing is optional).

Conclusion: Embrace the Air Fryer Biscuit Revolution

So, can you bake biscuits in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. The air fryer’s convection technology delivers crispy, golden, and tender biscuits in record time, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned baker, this method simplifies the process while elevating the results. From classic buttermilk to creative sweet and savory variations, the possibilities are endless.

Remember the key takeaways: preheat your air fryer, space biscuits properly, flip halfway, and adjust time/temperature for your model. Don’t be afraid to experiment—add cheese, herbs, or spices to make the recipe your own. And when those first biscuits emerge, golden and fragrant, you’ll understand why the air fryer is the ultimate tool for modern baking.

So go ahead, ditch the oven, and discover the perfect crispy treat. Your taste buds—and your energy bill—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bake biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake biscuits in an air fryer! The circulating hot air creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and tender. It’s a quick and easy alternative to using a traditional oven.

How long does it take to bake biscuits in an air fryer?

Most biscuits take 8–12 minutes at 330°F (165°C) in an air fryer, depending on size and brand. Check for golden tops and a firm texture to confirm they’re done.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for baking biscuits?

Preheating isn’t always required but recommended for even baking. A 3–5 minute preheat at 330°F (165°C) helps achieve a consistent golden crust and fluffy interior.

Can you bake frozen biscuits in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Frozen biscuits can go straight into the air fryer at 330°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes. No need to thaw—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time.

What’s the best way to prevent air fryer biscuits from burning?

Space biscuits evenly to allow airflow, and avoid overcrowding. Spray with oil for browning, and check halfway through to rotate if needed for even crispiness.

Can you use parchment paper when baking biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, parchment paper with holes (or air fryer liners) works well to prevent sticking. Just ensure the paper fits snugly so it doesn’t block airflow during cooking.