How to Cook Canned Biscuits in the Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Cooking canned biscuits in the air fryer delivers golden, fluffy results in under 10 minutes—no preheating required. Simply arrange the biscuits in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. This quick method ensures perfectly crisp edges and a tender center every time, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute snacks.

Key Takeaways

• Preheat your air fryer for even, consistent biscuit browning.
• Arrange biscuits with space to allow proper air circulation.
• Cook at 320°F (160°C) to prevent burning and ensure flakiness.
• Flip halfway through for uniform golden tops and bottoms.
• Check doneness early to avoid overcooking; adjust time as needed.
• Use non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ease removal.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Why Air Frying Canned Biscuits Is a Game-Changer

Let’s be honest—weekday mornings can feel like a sprint. Between getting the kids ready, packing lunches, and making sure you’re not late for work, cooking breakfast from scratch isn’t always an option. That’s where canned biscuits come in. You know the ones: those golden, flaky, buttery little circles of joy that pop out of the tube with a satisfying *snap*. But here’s the twist—what if I told you that you don’t need to fire up the oven to get that perfect, golden crust and fluffy interior? Enter the air fryer. This humble kitchen gadget has quietly revolutionized how we cook, and when it comes to canned biscuits, it’s nothing short of magic.

I first tried cooking canned biscuits in the air fryer during a particularly hectic week. My oven was being repaired, and I was desperate for a quick, satisfying breakfast. I tossed a few canned biscuits into the air fryer basket, set the timer, and crossed my fingers. Ten minutes later, I pulled out perfectly golden, puffed-up biscuits that were crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. No preheating. No flipping halfway through. Just pure, delicious convenience. Since then, I’ve experimented with different brands, sizes, and techniques, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about how to cook canned biscuits in the air fryer perfectly every time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good shortcut, this method is about to become your new go-to.

How the Air Fryer Transforms Canned Biscuits

The Science Behind the Sizzle

The air fryer works by circulating hot air at high speeds around the food, creating a convection effect that mimics deep frying—but with little to no oil. This is why foods like fries, chicken wings, and yes, canned biscuits, come out with a crispy exterior and moist interior. The rapid airflow ensures even browning, which is why your biscuits won’t come out pale or soggy like they sometimes do in a slow oven.

For canned biscuits, this means faster cook times, better browning, and less energy use. Unlike a conventional oven, which can take 10–15 minutes to preheat and another 10–12 minutes to cook, the air fryer heats up almost instantly. That’s a huge win when you’re in a rush. Plus, the compact cooking chamber ensures the biscuits get hit with heat from all sides, giving them that signature golden crust without needing to flip them.

Why Air Frying Beats the Oven

• Speed: No preheating required. You can go from fridge to table in under 15 minutes.
• Energy Efficiency: Air fryers use less electricity than ovens, making them a greener choice.
• Consistency: The even heat distribution reduces the risk of undercooked centers or burnt edges.
• Versatility: You can cook multiple batches back-to-back without waiting for the oven to cool.

One thing I’ve noticed is that air-fried biscuits tend to rise more evenly than oven-baked ones. In the oven, the bottoms can sometimes cook faster than the tops, leading to uneven puffing. In the air fryer, the 360-degree heat exposure helps the biscuits expand uniformly. It’s like giving them a little lift from every direction.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Canned Biscuits in the Air Fryer

What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you have everything on hand:

• Canned biscuits (any brand—Pillsbury, Great Value, etc.)
• Air fryer (any model, but basket-style works best)
• Non-stick cooking spray or oil mister (optional)
• Tongs or silicone-tipped spatula
• Small bowl (for glazes or butter, if desired)

Pro tip: I like to use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or grapeseed for spraying. It gives a nice sheen without burning, even at high temperatures.

Step 1: Prep the Air Fryer

Start by lightly greasing the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. This prevents sticking and helps the biscuits achieve that golden-brown finish. If your air fryer has a non-stick coating, you can skip this step, but I’ve found that a light spray still improves browning.

Next, preheat the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes. This isn’t always necessary, but it helps the biscuits start cooking evenly from the moment they hit the basket. Think of it like warming up a pan before frying eggs.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Open the can and separate the biscuits. Place them in the air fryer basket, leaving at least ½ inch of space between each one. Crowding the basket will block airflow and lead to uneven cooking. I usually cook 3–4 biscuits at a time, depending on the size of my air fryer.

Here’s a fun tip: if you’re cooking larger biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands), you might need to reduce the number to 2–3. Smaller biscuits (like mini or buttermilk) can fit 4–5 comfortably. Always check your air fryer’s capacity before loading it up.

Step 3: Cook and Check

Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes. I recommend checking at the 8-minute mark. The biscuits are done when they’re golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs).

Here’s where things get interesting: some air fryers run hotter than others. If you notice the tops browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the last 2 minutes. This prevents burning while ensuring the inside is fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Remove the biscuits using tongs or a spatula. They’re best enjoyed right away while they’re warm and flaky. But if you need to hold them for a few minutes, place them on a wire rack (not a plate) to prevent steam from making the bottoms soggy.

Want to level up? Brush them with melted butter, honey, or cinnamon sugar right after they come out. It adds a little extra flavor and makes them feel extra special.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Biscuits Every Time

Choose the Right Biscuit

Not all canned biscuits are created equal. Some brands and varieties work better in the air fryer than others. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Pillsbury Grands: Thick and fluffy. Cook at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. They rise beautifully in the air fryer.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: Slightly tangy. Cook at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Great for sandwiches.
• Mini Biscuits: Perfect for appetizers or kids’ meals. Cook at 350°F for 6–8 minutes.
• Flaky Layers: Extra layers mean extra crispiness. Watch closely—they can brown quickly.

I’ve found that Pillsbury tends to perform best, but store brands like Great Value or Kroger’s are also reliable. Just avoid “low-fat” or “reduced-calorie” versions—they often don’t brown as well and can be dry.

Don’t Skip the Space

It’s tempting to cram in as many biscuits as possible, but overcrowding is the number one mistake people make. Without enough space, the hot air can’t circulate properly, and you’ll end up with biscuits that are pale on one side and burnt on the other. Trust me, it’s worth cooking in batches.

Experiment with Flavors

One of the best things about air-fried biscuits is how easy they are to customize. Try these simple upgrades:

• Cheese & Herb: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and dried rosemary over the biscuits before cooking.
• Sweet & Spicy: Brush with honey and a dash of cayenne after baking.
• Garlic Butter: Melt butter with minced garlic and brush on top.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Roll warm biscuits in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.

For a fun twist, I once stuffed a biscuit with a small piece of cooked bacon before air frying. The result? A savory, smoky breakfast sandwich that was ready in under 15 minutes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcooking (or Undercooking)

It’s easy to overcook biscuits in the air fryer because the heat is so intense. The key is to watch them closely after the 8-minute mark. If the tops are browning too fast, lower the temperature or open the basket for a few seconds to release some heat.

On the flip side, undercooked biscuits will have a doughy, raw center. If you’re unsure, use a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean, they’re ready. If not, add 1–2 more minutes.

Using Too Much Oil

A little oil goes a long way. Over-greasing can cause the biscuits to become greasy or even smoke. A light spray or brush is all you need. If you’re using a mister, hold it about 6 inches from the basket and give it 2–3 quick sprays.

Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks

Every air fryer is different. Some models run hot, others run cool. The best way to learn your air fryer’s behavior is to do a test batch. Cook one biscuit first and note the time and temperature. Then adjust for future batches.

For example, my older air fryer needed 10 minutes at 350°F, but my newer one only needs 8. Once you know your machine, you’ll never look back.

Cooking Times & Temperature Guide (Data Table)

Here’s a handy reference table for cooking different types of canned biscuits in the air fryer. These times are based on a 350°F (175°C) setting, but always check your biscuits 1–2 minutes before the timer goes off.

Biscuit Type	Quantity	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Pillsbury Grands	3	350°F	10–12 min	Check at 10 min; lower temp if browning too fast
Buttermilk	4	350°F	8–10 min	Ideal for sandwiches
Mini Biscuits	5–6	350°F	6–8 min	Great for parties
Flaky Layers	3–4	350°F	8–10 min	Watch for rapid browning
Store Brand (e.g., Great Value)	3–4	350°F	9–11 min	Results vary; do a test batch

Remember, these are guidelines. Your air fryer might need slight adjustments. The key is to observe rather than just set and forget.

Beyond Breakfast: Creative Uses for Air-Fried Biscuits

Breakfast Sandwiches

Split a warm air-fried biscuit and fill it with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s like a fast-food sandwich, but better—and made in your own kitchen. For a vegetarian twist, try avocado, tomato, and a fried egg.

Mini Pizzas

Top mini biscuits with marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni. Air fry for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts. Perfect for kids’ parties or game-day snacks.

Biscuit Desserts

Brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and air fry for 1–2 more minutes. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick “biscuit s’more.” Or, split a biscuit and fill it with Nutella and sliced bananas.

Side Dishes

Air-fried biscuits make a great side for soups, stews, or chili. They’re ready in minutes and soak up flavors beautifully. Try them with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-savory combo.

I once served air-fried biscuits with a creamy tomato bisque at a dinner party, and everyone asked for the recipe. The best part? I didn’t spend hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts: Why This Method Works

Cooking canned biscuits in the air fryer isn’t just about speed—it’s about quality. You get the same golden crust and fluffy interior as oven-baked biscuits, but in a fraction of the time. And because the air fryer uses less energy and heats up faster, it’s a win for both your schedule and your wallet.

Over the past year, I’ve used this method for everything from rushed weekday breakfasts to weekend brunch with friends. It’s reliable, consistent, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family of five or just yourself, knowing how to cook canned biscuits in the air fryer perfectly every time is a skill worth mastering.

So next time you’re staring at a tube of biscuits and wondering what to do, grab your air fryer. Set it to 350°F, give the basket a quick spray, and in 10 minutes, you’ll have a warm, flaky, delicious treat that feels like a hug on a plate. And honestly? That’s the best kind of shortcut there is.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you cook canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Cook canned biscuits in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust time slightly based on your air fryer model and biscuit size for golden, flaky results.

Can you cook canned biscuits in the air fryer without preheating?

While not required, preheating the air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures even cooking and better rise. Skipping preheating may result in slightly longer cook times or uneven browning.

How do you keep canned biscuits from sticking in the air fryer?

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil, or use parchment paper with holes for airflow. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when cooking canned biscuits in the air fryer.

What temperature is best for air frying canned biscuits?

The ideal temperature is 320°F (160°C), which balances crispness and even baking. Lower temps may leave biscuits doughy, while higher ones risk burning the outside before the center cooks.

Can you cook frozen canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes! Add 2–3 minutes to the cook time (total 10–13 minutes) and check for a golden crust. Keep the biscuits frozen until ready to cook for best results.

How do you know when air fryer canned biscuits are done?

Biscuits are ready when golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid overcooking—let them cool for 1–2 minutes to firm up before serving.