Can You Make Canned Biscuits in the Air Fryer Fast Easy

Yes, you can make canned biscuits in the air fryer quickly and easily—achieving golden, flaky results in under 10 minutes. Simply preheat the air fryer, place the biscuits in a single layer, and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. It’s a faster, crispier alternative to oven baking with minimal cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fry canned biscuits for faster, crispier results than oven baking.
• Preheat for best results: Always preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust time and temp: Cook at 320°F for 5–8 minutes, checking halfway.
• Space them out: Leave room between biscuits to allow proper air circulation.
• Flip for even browning: Flip biscuits halfway through for golden tops and bottoms.
• No oil needed: Canned biscuits cook perfectly without added oil in the air fryer.

Can You Make Canned Biscuits in the Air Fryer? Fast & Easy

Let’s be honest—weekday mornings can feel like a race against time. You’re juggling coffee, kids, work emails, and somehow need to feed everyone before the day kicks off. That’s where canned biscuits in the air fryer come in. I remember the first time I tried it. I was half-awake, staring at a can of Grands! on the counter, wondering if my new air fryer could save me from another cereal breakfast. Spoiler: it did. And it was fast. No preheating, no greasy pans, and the biscuits came out golden, fluffy, and ready in under 10 minutes. It felt like magic—but really, it was just smart cooking.

So, can you make canned biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely. And not only can you, but you should—especially if you love quick, no-fuss meals with a side of convenience. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student on a budget, or just someone who appreciates a warm biscuit without turning on the oven, this method is a game-changer. In this post, we’ll dive into how it works, what to expect, tips for perfection, and even some fun variations. No fluff, no hype—just real, tested advice from someone who’s made more air fryer biscuits than they’d like to admit.

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

If you’ve ever baked canned biscuits in the oven, you know the routine: preheat for 10–15 minutes, wait for the oven to warm up, bake for 12–15, then clean the baking sheet. It’s not hard, but it’s slow. Enter the air fryer. This compact countertop appliance uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly—perfect for something as simple (and delicious) as a canned biscuit.

Speed and Convenience

The biggest win? No preheating required. Most air fryers heat up within 2–3 minutes, and you can start cooking right away. For canned biscuits, that means you’re biting into a warm, flaky biscuit in under 10 minutes from opening the can. Compare that to 25+ minutes in the oven. That’s a 60% time savings—huge when you’re running late or just want a snack without the wait.

Plus, the air fryer is small and efficient. You’re not heating an entire oven cavity. That means less energy used, less heat in your kitchen, and less time standing around. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants a fast breakfast without the hassle.

Texture and Results

Oven-baked biscuits are good, but air fryer biscuits? They’re often better. The intense, circulating heat gives the outside a light crispness while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Think of it like a mini convection oven—but faster and more focused.

One thing I noticed: the biscuits brown more evenly. In the oven, the bottoms can get too dark while the tops stay pale. In the air fryer, the 360-degree airflow ensures even browning. The result? Golden-brown biscuits with a satisfying crust and a tender crumb. And because the air fryer uses less oil (or none at all), they’re also slightly lighter and less greasy than pan-fried versions.

Space-Saving and Cleanup

Let’s talk about cleanup. With the air fryer, you’re usually using the included basket or a small liner. No baking sheet to scrub, no parchment paper to toss. Just wipe down the basket or use a liner—done in 30 seconds.

And if you’re cooking for one or two, the air fryer lets you make just what you need. No need to bake a full 8-biscuit sheet when you only want 2. That means less waste and more control. It’s also great for reheating leftovers—just pop a cold biscuit in for 2–3 minutes, and it’s warm and fresh again.

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

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Making canned biscuits in the air fryer is simple, but a few key steps make the difference between “meh” and “amazing.” Here’s my tested method, based on dozens of batches and a few minor disasters (we’ve all had a biscuit stick to the basket).

What You’ll Need

• Canned biscuits (any brand: Grands!, flaky layers, butter tarts, etc.)
• Air fryer
• Non-stick cooking spray, olive oil, or melted butter (optional)
• Air fryer liner, parchment paper, or silicone mat (optional but recommended)
• Small bowl for butter (if adding flavor)

Step 1: Prep the Air Fryer

Start by lightly greasing the air fryer basket. A quick spray with cooking spray or a brush of olive oil helps prevent sticking. If you’re using parchment paper, cut it to fit the basket with holes for airflow. Silicone mats work great too—reusable and easy to clean.

Pro tip: Don’t skip the grease, even if your biscuits say “non-stick.” The high heat can still cause sticking, especially with cheaper brands.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Open the can and separate the biscuits. Place them in the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch of space between each. This is crucial! Crowding blocks airflow and leads to uneven cooking. For most air fryers (4–6 quarts), 3–4 biscuits fit comfortably.

If you’re making all 8, cook in batches. I usually do two rounds of 4. Yes, it takes a little longer, but the results are worth it.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Here’s the golden rule: 325°F (163°C) for 7–9 minutes. This temp is lower than the oven’s 375°F, but the air fryer’s intensity makes up for it. Start at 7 minutes, then check.

Why not higher? Too much heat can burn the outside before the inside cooks. 325°F ensures even cooking and that perfect golden crust.

Step 4: Monitor and Flip (Optional)

After 5 minutes, open the basket and check. If the tops are browning faster than the bottoms, flip them. I do this for extra evenness, but it’s optional. Most of the time, I don’t flip and they’re still great.

At 7 minutes, insert a toothpick into the center of one biscuit. If it comes out clean (no dough), they’re done. If not, add 1–2 more minutes. Remember: they’ll keep cooking a bit from residual heat.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the biscuits cool for 1–2 minutes. They’re hot! Then transfer to a plate. Brush with melted butter, honey, or garlic butter for extra flavor. Or eat plain—they’re delicious either way.

Quick tip: For a “baked-in-bag” effect, place a biscuit in a small parchment bag before air frying. It steams slightly, giving a softer texture—great for kids.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuits Every Time

Even the simplest recipes can go sideways. Here are my top tips to avoid common pitfalls and get consistently great results.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. Air fryers need airflow to work. When biscuits are too close, they steam instead of crisp. The result? Pale, soggy biscuits. Always leave space. If your basket is small, cook fewer biscuits per batch.

For example, I have a 5.8-quart Ninja Air Fryer. I can fit 4 Grands! biscuits comfortably. Any more, and they touch. So I stick to 4 max.

Use the Right Temperature

325°F is ideal. I tested 300°F (too slow, took 12+ minutes), 350°F (burnt edges at 6 minutes), and 375°F (disaster—blackened outside, raw inside). 325°F gives the best balance.

If your air fryer runs hot (some do), try 320°F. If it runs cool, 330°F. Most models have a “test” mode—use it with one biscuit first.

Brush with Butter for Flavor

Right after cooking, brush the tops with melted butter. It adds richness and helps the seasonings stick. I love garlic butter for savory biscuits or honey butter for sweet ones.

For a shortcut, mix 1 tbsp melted butter with 1/4 tsp garlic powder or cinnamon sugar. Brush on while warm.

Try Different Brands

Not all canned biscuits are created equal. I’ve tried:

• Grands! Flaky Layers: My favorite. Crispy outside, soft inside. Cooks evenly.
• Butter Tarts: Slightly sweeter, but great with jam. Watch the sugar—can burn faster.
• Buttermilk: Denser, less fluffy. Still good, but needs 8 minutes.
• Store brands: Hit or miss. Some stick more, some rise less. Test first.

Grands! are my go-to, but experiment. You might find a new favorite.

Reheating Leftovers

Got extras? Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes. They come out warm and fresh, not dried out like microwaved ones. I do this all the time for next-day breakfasts.

Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Air Fryer Biscuits

Plain biscuits are great, but why stop there? The air fryer is perfect for turning canned dough into creative, delicious meals. Here are a few of my favorite upgrades.

Biscuit Breakfast Sandwiches

Split a cooked biscuit, add a fried egg, cheese, and bacon or sausage. Pop it back in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese. Boom—fast, hot breakfast sandwich. I do this every weekend.

For a veggie version: add sautéed spinach, tomato, and avocado. Less mess than a skillet, and the egg stays runny.

Mini Pizzas

Press a biscuit into a flat circle. Spread pizza sauce, add shredded mozzarella, and top with pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Air fry at 325°F for 6–7 minutes. The crust gets crispy, the cheese melts—perfect for kids or a quick lunch.

Pro tip: Use a small round cutter to flatten the biscuit evenly. No lopsided pizzas!

Cheesy Garlic Knots

Cut a biscuit into 3 strips. Roll each into a rope, tie a knot, and place in the basket. Brush with garlic butter, sprinkle with Parmesan, and air fry at 325°F for 6 minutes. Serve with marinara for dipping. My family begs for these.

Sweet Cinnamon Rolls

Flatten a biscuit, spread with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, roll up, and slice into rounds. Air fry at 325°F for 8 minutes. Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze. It’s not a true cinnamon roll, but it’s close—and 10x faster.

Stuffed Biscuits

Before cooking, flatten a biscuit, add a spoon of jam, cream cheese, or Nutella, and fold over. Pinch the edges. Air fry at 325°F for 8 minutes. The filling melts into a gooey center. Great for dessert or a sweet breakfast.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common issues and how to avoid (or fix) them.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

Why it happens: Not enough grease or using a non-stick spray that burns.

Fix: Use a high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or grapeseed) or a reusable liner. Parchment paper with holes works best. Avoid cheap sprays—they can leave a residue.

Uneven Cooking

Why it happens: Overcrowding, not flipping, or an air fryer with hot spots.

Fix: Cook in batches. Flip halfway. Rotate the basket if needed. Some air fryers have uneven heat—test with one biscuit first.

Biscuits Burn on the Outside, Raw Inside

Why it happens: Too high heat or too long time.

Fix: Lower the temp to 320°F and check at 6 minutes. Remember: residual heat continues cooking after removing.

Biscuits Don’t Rise

Why it happens: Old dough, over-handling, or cold from the fridge.

Fix: Use fresh cans. Don’t knead or stretch the dough. Let it sit at room temp for 5 minutes before cooking.

Smoke or Burning Smell

Why it happens: Grease dripping onto the heating element.

Fix: Don’t over-grease. Use a liner to catch drips. Clean the basket after every use.

Air Fryer Biscuit Time & Temperature Guide (Data Table)

Biscuit Type	Quantity	Temp (°F)	Time (min)	Notes
Grands! Flaky Layers	3–4	325	7–9	Best for even browning
Butter Tarts	3–4	325	7–8	Watch for sugar burning
Buttermilk	3–4	325	8–9	Denser; needs extra time
Store Brand	3–4	320–325	7–10	Test first; vary by brand
Stuffed (e.g., jam)	3–4	325	8–9	Check center for filling
Mini Pizzas	3–4	325	6–7	Add cheese last 2 min

This table is based on my testing with a 5.8-quart Ninja Air Fryer. Times may vary slightly with other models, but the principles hold. Always start with the lower end of the time range and adjust.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Should Make Canned Biscuits in the Air Fryer

So, can you make canned biscuits in the air fryer? 100% yes—and you should. It’s fast, easy, and delivers results that rival (and sometimes beat) the oven. In under 10 minutes, you can have warm, golden biscuits with minimal effort and cleanup. No preheating, no greasy pans, no waiting.

But it’s more than just convenience. The air fryer unlocks new possibilities—breakfast sandwiches, mini pizzas, garlic knots, and sweet treats—all from the same can of dough. It’s a tool for creativity, not just speed. And for busy mornings, late-night snacks, or lazy weekends, that’s invaluable.

I’ve made these biscuits for family, roommates, and even guests who didn’t believe they were “canned.” The reactions? Pure surprise. “These taste homemade!” they say. And that’s the magic of the air fryer—it transforms simple ingredients into something special.

So grab a can, dust off your air fryer, and give it a try. Start with the basics, then experiment. You might just find your new favorite way to cook. And if you mess up? No worries. Even a “failed” batch is still a warm, edible biscuit. Just eat it with extra butter and call it rustic. After all, cooking isn’t about perfection—it’s about enjoyment. And with canned biscuits in the air fryer, enjoyment has never been easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make canned biscuits in the air fryer! It’s a fast and easy way to achieve golden, flaky results in less time than a conventional oven.

What temperature should I use to air fry canned biscuits?

Set your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for canned biscuits. This ensures even cooking without burning the edges while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

How long do canned biscuits take in the air fryer?

Canned biscuits typically take 5–8 minutes in the air fryer, depending on size. Check for a golden-brown top and a fully risen, airy texture to confirm they’re done.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for canned biscuits?

Preheating the air fryer for 2–3 minutes helps ensure consistent cooking. While not always required, it’s recommended for the best results when making canned biscuits in the air fryer.

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

Yes, canned biscuits cook well in the air fryer without added oil. Their pre-made dough already contains enough fat for browning and flakiness during air frying.

How many canned biscuits can I air fry at once?

Most air fryer baskets fit 4–6 canned biscuits at a time, depending on size. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even airflow and consistent browning across all biscuits.