Can I Cook Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer perfectly every time—with the right temperature and timing, they come out golden, flaky, and fully cooked in under 12 minutes. No thawing needed, making it the fastest, easiest way to enjoy warm, bakery-style biscuits straight from the freezer.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer for a quick, crispy result.
• Preheat first: Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking and golden crust.
• Adjust time: Cook 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for perfect browning.
• No thawing needed: Save time by cooking biscuits straight from the freezer.
• Check early: Ovens vary—monitor biscuits to avoid overcooking or burning.

The Air Fryer Revolution: Can I Cook Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time?

Let’s be honest—mornings are tough. Between hitting snooze one too many times and the chaos of getting everyone out the door, who has the time (or energy) to bake fresh biscuits from scratch? That’s why frozen biscuits have become a staple in so many households. They’re convenient, shelf-stable, and promise a warm, flaky bite with minimal effort. But here’s the real question: Can I cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer perfectly every time? If you’ve ever stared at your air fryer, wondering if those frozen dough rounds could survive the swirling heat without turning into hockey pucks, you’re not alone.

I’ve been there. I remember the first time I tried it—my air fryer was brand new, my kids were hungry, and I was desperate for a shortcut. I popped in two frozen biscuits, set the timer to 10 minutes, and crossed my fingers. The result? One slightly charred, the other still doughy inside. Not exactly the golden, fluffy perfection I’d hoped for. But after years of trial, error, and a few kitchen experiments, I’ve cracked the code. Spoiler: Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer—and they can come out flawless, every single time. It just takes a little know-how, the right settings, and a few pro tips to avoid common pitfalls.

Why Air Fryers Are Game-Changers for Frozen Biscuits

Air fryers have taken the kitchen world by storm, and for good reason. They use rapid hot air circulation to crisp and cook food with little to no oil. But what makes them perfect for frozen biscuits? Let’s break it down.

Speed and Convenience

Traditional oven baking takes 15–20 minutes, and that’s after preheating. With an air fryer, you skip the wait. Most frozen biscuits cook in 8–12 minutes from frozen—no thawing required. That’s a huge win for busy mornings or last-minute side dishes. I’ve even used them for impromptu breakfast-for-dinner nights when my family demands “something warm and buttery.”

Even Browning and Crisp Edges

Unlike ovens, which often leave biscuits pale on the bottom and overcooked on top, air fryers deliver consistent heat from all angles. The result? Golden-brown crusts with a tender, flaky interior. No more flipping halfway through or rotating trays. The air fryer does the work for you.

Space-Saving for Small Batches

Got a family of two or three? No need to heat up an entire oven for just a few biscuits. Air fryers are compact and energy-efficient, making them ideal for small households. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just wipe down the basket or toss it in the dishwasher.

Real-life example: Last winter, I hosted a brunch for my book club. Instead of baking a whole sheet pan of biscuits, I cooked them in batches in my air fryer. Each batch came out perfectly browned, and I had fresh, warm biscuits ready in under 15 minutes. My guests were shocked—and impressed.

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

Ready to try it yourself? Here’s how to cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer perfectly every time—no guesswork, no stress.

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

While some brands say preheating isn’t necessary, I’ve found it makes a huge difference. Preheat to 325°F (163°C) for 2–3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start and prevents undercooked centers. Think of it like warming up a skillet before frying eggs—it just works better.

Step 2: Arrange Biscuits with Space

Place biscuits in the basket in a single layer, leaving at least 1/2 inch between each. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking. For larger biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands!), you might only fit 2–3 per batch. Smaller ones (like mini buttermilk biscuits) can fit 4–6.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Start with 325°F (163°C) for 8–10 minutes. This is the sweet spot for most frozen biscuits. After 8 minutes, check for doneness: the tops should be golden, and the centers should spring back when lightly pressed. If they’re still doughy, add 1–2 minutes. Avoid cranking the heat—high temps (like 350°F+) can burn the outside before the inside cooks.

Step 4: Flip for Extra Crispness (Optional)

For ultra-crispy edges, flip biscuits halfway through. I do this when I want that “just-baked” diner-style texture. But if you’re in a rush, it’s not essential—the air fryer’s convection does most of the work.

Step 5: Let Them Rest (Yes, Really!)

Once cooked, let biscuits sit in the basket for 1–2 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents sogginess. Then transfer to a plate and enjoy warm. Pro tip: Brush with melted butter or sprinkle with garlic powder for an upgrade.

Common mistake: Setting the timer and walking away. Biscuits cook fast in an air fryer—overcooking is the #1 issue. Set a timer and check early.

Brand-Specific Tips: What Works for Different Frozen Biscuits

Not all frozen biscuits are created equal. Here’s how to adjust your air fryer method for popular brands—so you get perfect results, no matter what’s in your freezer.

Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits

• Time: 9–11 minutes at 325°F
• Notes: These are large and thick. Preheat the air fryer, and don’t skip the flip. For extra fluffiness, brush with butter immediately after cooking.
• Batch size: 2–3 biscuits (depending on air fryer size)

Pillsbury Flaky Layers

• Time: 8–10 minutes at 325°F
• Notes: More delicate than Grands! Watch closely after 8 minutes to avoid burning the flaky layers.
• Tip: Spray lightly with cooking spray for a shinier crust.

Store-Brand or “Value” Biscuits

• Time: 7–9 minutes at 325°F
• Notes: These are thinner and smaller. They cook faster, so check at 7 minutes. Often less buttery, so a butter brush post-cooking adds richness.

Gluten-Free or Vegan Frozen Biscuits

• Time: 10–12 minutes at 325°F
• Notes: These tend to dry out faster. Reduce heat to 310°F if they brown too quickly. Cover with foil for the last 2 minutes to retain moisture.
• Pro tip: Add a splash of plant-based milk to the dough if it’s too dry (if package allows).

My personal favorite: I’ve tried Trader Joe’s frozen buttermilk biscuits in my air fryer—cooked at 325°F for 9 minutes, flipped at 5. They came out so fluffy, even my skeptical husband asked for seconds.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Even seasoned air fryer users make these errors. Learn from my kitchen disasters—so you don’t repeat them.

1. Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers rely on airflow. Pile biscuits too close, and they’ll steam instead of crisp. The fix? Cook in batches. Yes, it takes a little longer, but the results are worth it. I once tried fitting 6 Pillsbury Grands in my 5-quart air fryer. The outer ones were perfect; the inner ones were raw. Lesson learned.

2. Skipping the Checkpoint

Don’t assume the timer knows best. Biscuits can go from golden to black in 30 seconds. The fix? Set a timer for 8 minutes, then open the basket and check. If they’re pale, add time in 1-minute increments.

3. Using Too High Heat

350°F might seem faster, but it burns the outside before the inside cooks. The fix? Stick to 325°F. For extra-crispy edges, flip halfway—don’t crank the heat.

4. Not Brushing with Butter

Plain biscuits are fine, but a quick brush with melted butter (or garlic butter) adds flavor and shine. The fix? Keep a small bowl of butter near the air fryer. Brush immediately after cooking—while the surface is hot and receptive.

5. Forgetting the Rest Time

Fresh out of the air fryer, biscuits are fragile. The fix? Let them sit 1–2 minutes. This helps the structure set and prevents crumbling when you bite in.

Real talk: I once rushed a batch for a photo shoot. The biscuits looked perfect, but they collapsed when I picked them up. Now I always rest them—even if it’s just for 60 seconds.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Ways to Use Air-Fried Frozen Biscuits

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. Air-fried frozen biscuits aren’t just for breakfast—they’re a blank canvas for delicious meals.

Breakfast Sandwiches

Split air-fried biscuits, layer with fried eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon. Toast the cut sides for extra crunch. I make these for my kids on busy mornings—they’re faster than cooking pancakes.

Biscuit Pizzas

Top with pizza sauce, shredded cheese, and pepperoni. Air fry for 3–4 minutes at 325°F until the cheese melts. My niece calls these “mini pizzas” and devours them after school.

Mini Sliders

Use small biscuits as buns for ham and cheese sliders. Add a pickle slice and a swipe of mustard. Perfect for game day or potlucks.

Dessert Biscuits

Brush with cinnamon sugar, then air fry for 1–2 minutes more. Top with whipped cream and berries. I call these “cinnamon sugar bombs”—my husband’s favorite treat.

Side Dish Upgrade

Serve alongside soups, stews, or fried chicken. For a fancy twist, drizzle with honey or add a sprinkle of rosemary.

Pro tip: Leftover biscuits? Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 300°F. They’ll taste just as fresh as when they were first cooked.

Data Table: Air Fryer Settings for Popular Frozen Biscuits

Biscuit Brand/Type	Size	Temperature	Cook Time (Minutes)	Batch Size (5-Qt Air Fryer)	Pro Tips
Pillsbury Grands!	Large	325°F	9–11	2–3	Preheat; flip halfway; brush with butter
Pillsbury Flaky Layers	Medium	325°F	8–10	3–4	Watch closely after 8 minutes; spray with oil
Store-Brand (Mini)	Small	325°F	7–9	4–6	Check at 7 minutes; butter adds flavor
Gluten-Free Biscuits	Medium	310°F	10–12	2–3	Cover with foil if browning too fast
Vegan Buttermilk	Medium	325°F	10–12	3–4	Add plant milk if dough seems dry

Remember: These are starting points. Always check early and adjust based on your air fryer’s performance. Every model heats slightly differently.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can (and Should) Cook Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

So, can I cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer perfectly every time? The answer is a resounding yes—if you follow a few simple rules. Preheat, space them out, keep the temperature moderate, and check early. It’s not magic; it’s just smart cooking.

I’ve cooked hundreds of frozen biscuits in my air fryer over the years, and the results never fail to impress. Whether it’s a quiet Sunday morning with coffee and butter, a quick weeknight side, or a fun family meal, air-fried biscuits deliver convenience, flavor, and that “just baked” texture we all crave. And the best part? No oven to clean, no long wait, and no compromise on taste.

So go ahead—grab that box from your freezer, fire up your air fryer, and give it a try. With these tips, you’ll never go back to the oven. And who knows? You might just discover a new kitchen hack that changes your mornings—or your entire week—for the better. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer without thawing them first?

Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer directly from the freezer—no thawing needed. Just add 1-2 minutes to the recommended cooking time to ensure they heat through evenly.

What’s the best way to cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer for perfect results?

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C), arrange the biscuits in a single layer with space between them, and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. This method ensures a golden, flaky crust every time.

Do I need to adjust cooking time for different air fryer models?

Yes, air fryer wattages vary, so start checking your frozen biscuits at 7 minutes. If they’re not golden brown, add 1-2 more minutes. Always monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

How do I prevent frozen biscuits from drying out in the air fryer?

Lightly brush the biscuits with butter or milk before cooking to retain moisture. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper air circulation and even baking.

Can I cook store-bought frozen biscuits in an air fryer, or only homemade?

Store-bought frozen biscuits work perfectly in an air fryer—just follow the package instructions as a baseline. Homemade frozen biscuits may require slight time adjustments based on size.

Are air fryer frozen biscuits healthier than oven-baked ones?

Air frying uses less oil than traditional baking, making it a lighter option. The rapid air circulation also creates a crispier texture with fewer added fats compared to oven methods.