Can You Put Pillsbury Cookies in the Air Fryer Find Out Now

Yes, you can bake Pillsbury cookies in the air fryer for a quick, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treat—just adjust time and temperature to avoid over-baking. Preheat to 325°F (160°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, checking early to preserve the perfect texture. Say goodbye to oven preheating and hello to faster, delicious results!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry Pillsbury cookies for a quick, crispy treat with less oil.
• Preheat the air fryer to 325°F (165°C) for even baking and perfect texture.
• Use parchment paper or silicone liners to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Cook in small batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure uniform browning.
• Check cookies early as air fryers vary; 6-8 minutes is typical for golden edges.
• Let cookies cool slightly before removing to prevent crumbling or breakage.
• Experiment with flavors and mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for custom results.

Can You Put Pillsbury Cookies in the Air Fryer? Find Out Now

Let’s be honest—few things beat the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or you’re prepping for a last-minute gathering, Pillsbury cookies are a go-to for many. They’re convenient, consistent, and always deliver that classic, soft-baked taste we all love. But what if you don’t have an oven? Or maybe you’re short on time and want to speed up the baking process? Enter the air fryer—your kitchen’s multitasking superhero. It crisps, roasts, and even bakes with impressive speed and efficiency. So, it’s only natural to wonder: Can you put Pillsbury cookies in the air fryer?

The short answer? Yes, you absolutely can—and it might just become your new favorite way to bake them. Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food evenly, which makes them surprisingly great for baking cookies. But like any kitchen experiment, there are tricks to getting it right. Too much heat? You’ll end up with burnt edges. Too little? You’ll get undercooked centers. In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about baking Pillsbury cookies in the air fryer—from temperature settings and timing to troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or a curious beginner, this guide will help you achieve golden, chewy, bakery-style cookies without firing up the oven. Let’s dive in!

How the Air Fryer Works for Baking Cookies

Before we get into the specifics of Pillsbury cookies, it helps to understand how an air fryer bakes. Unlike traditional ovens, which rely on radiant heat and slow convection, air fryers use a powerful fan to circulate hot air around the food at high speed. This creates a crispy exterior while cooking the inside evenly—ideal for foods that benefit from both texture and tenderness, like cookies.

Why Air Fryers Are Great for Cookies

• Faster cooking time: Air fryers preheat quickly (usually in 3–5 minutes) and cook food faster than conventional ovens. For cookies, this means you can go from craving to eating in under 15 minutes.
• Energy-efficient: Since they’re smaller and heat up faster, air fryers use less electricity than full-sized ovens—perfect for small batches.
• Even browning: The circulating air ensures consistent heat distribution, reducing the risk of hot spots that can burn cookies in ovens.
• No preheating required (optional): While preheating is recommended, some air fryers can bake cookies without it, saving even more time.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: What’s the Difference?

You might be thinking, “But I’ve always baked Pillsbury cookies in the oven—why switch?” Great question. The key difference lies in heat intensity and airflow. Air fryers are more intense and compact, so they require adjustments to temperature and time. For example:

• Ovens typically bake Pillsbury cookies at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Air fryers often need 325°F–350°F for 7–10 minutes—shorter because of the concentrated heat.

Also, air fryer baskets are smaller, so you’ll likely need to bake in batches. But the payoff? Crisper edges, a slightly crispier bottom, and a soft, gooey center—many people actually prefer the texture!

Pro Tip: Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners

To prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or a reusable silicone liner. Just make sure the paper doesn’t block airflow—trim it to fit snugly. This also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and merging into one giant cookie blob (we’ve all been there).

Step-by-Step Guide: Baking Pillsbury Cookies in the Air Fryer

Now that you know the basics, let’s get practical. Here’s a foolproof method to bake Pillsbury cookie dough in your air fryer. We’ll use the classic Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake Sugar Cookies as our example, but this works for chocolate chip, oatmeal, and other varieties too.

What You’ll Need

• Pillsbury cookie dough (any variety, pre-portioned)
• Air fryer
• Parchment paper or silicone liner (optional but recommended)
• Spoon or small cookie scoop (for spacing)
• Oven mitts (air fryer baskets get hot!)

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer (Recommended)

Set your air fryer to 325°F and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures consistent baking from the start. If you’re in a rush, you can skip preheating, but preheating helps avoid undercooked centers.

Step 2: Prepare the Basket

Lightly grease the basket or line it with parchment paper. Place the pre-portioned cookie dough pieces on the liner, leaving at least 1–2 inches between each one. Crowding causes them to spread and stick together.

Pro tip: If your dough is soft or sticky, chill it in the fridge for 10 minutes first. This helps the cookies hold their shape better in the intense air fryer heat.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Place the basket in the air fryer and bake at 325°F for 7–9 minutes. Start checking at 7 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked (they’ll firm up as they cool).

Note: Every air fryer is different. If your model runs hot, try 320°F. If it’s less powerful, 330°F might work better. Adjust based on your results.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool in the basket for 2–3 minutes—this allows them to set. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely (or eat them warm if you’re impatient like me). The result? Crispy edges, chewy centers, and that classic Pillsbury flavor—all in record time.

Step 5: Repeat for Batches

Most air fryers can fit 4–6 cookies at once, depending on size. Bake in batches, but avoid overloading. Let the basket cool slightly between batches to prevent residual heat from burning the next round.

Best Pillsbury Cookie Varieties for the Air Fryer

Not all Pillsbury cookies are created equal when it comes to air fryer success. Some varieties thrive in the intense heat, while others need slight adjustments. Here’s a breakdown of the best (and not-so-great) options.

Top 3 Pillsbury Cookies for Air Frying

1. Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake Sugar Cookies: These are the MVPs. The dough holds its shape well, bakes evenly, and develops a perfect balance of crisp and soft. They’re also great for decorating after baking.
2. Pillsbury Chocolate Chip Cookies: A close second. The chocolate chips melt beautifully, and the edges crisp up nicely. Just be careful not to overbake—chocolate burns easily.
3. Pillsbury Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: The oatmeal base is hearty and less likely to spread. The raisins add a nice chewiness, and the air fryer gives them a slightly nutty crust.

Cookies That Need Extra Care

• Pillsbury Peanut Butter Cookies: Tend to brown faster and can dry out. Reduce temperature to 315°F and check at 6 minutes.
• Pillsbury Soft-Baked Cookies (e.g., Snickerdoodle): These are already soft, so they can become too crisp. Bake at 320°F for 6–7 minutes and monitor closely.
• Pillsbury Cookie Dough Bites (frozen): These can work, but they’re smaller and cook faster. Try 325°F for 5–6 minutes and watch for over-browning.

What to Avoid

Steer clear of refrigerated dough logs (like the ones you slice yourself) unless you portion them first. The slices can spread too much and stick together. Pre-portioned dough is your best bet for air fryer success.

Bonus: Try Homemade Dough Too!

While Pillsbury is convenient, you can also use this method for homemade cookie dough. Just make sure the dough is firm enough to hold its shape. Chill it for 30 minutes before air frying for best results.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common issues people face when baking Pillsbury cookies in the air fryer—and how to solve them.

Problem: Cookies Are Burnt on the Outside but Raw Inside

Cause: Air fryer running too hot or baking too long. This is common with models that run hotter than advertised.

Solution: Lower the temperature to 320°F or even 315°F. Start checking at 6 minutes. Use an oven thermometer to verify your air fryer’s actual temperature.

Problem: Cookies Spread Too Much and Stick Together

Cause: Dough is too soft or too close together.

Solution: Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes before baking. Space the cookies at least 1.5 inches apart. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Problem: Cookies Are Too Dry or Crumbly

Cause: Overbaking or using a high temperature.

Solution: Pull the cookies out when the edges are golden but the center still looks soft. They’ll firm up as they cool. Also, avoid using non-stick sprays with Pillsbury dough—it can make them dry.

Problem: Uneven Baking (Some Cookies Done, Others Not)

Cause: Poor airflow or overcrowding.

Solution: Don’t overload the basket. Rotate the basket halfway through baking if your model doesn’t have even airflow. Some people flip the cookies, but this isn’t necessary for Pillsbury dough.

Problem: Parchment Paper Blows Around

Cause: The air fryer fan is too strong.

Solution: Use parchment paper with pre-cut holes or a silicone liner. You can also place a small metal trivet or heat-safe bowl on top to weigh it down (just don’t block airflow).

Temperature and Time Guide for Different Air Fryers

Since air fryers vary in size, power, and airflow, there’s no one-size-fits-all setting. Below is a handy reference table to help you adjust based on your model. Remember, these are starting points—always monitor your cookies closely.

Air Fryer Type	Temperature	Baking Time	Notes
Small (2–3.5 qt)	320°F	6–8 minutes	Preheat recommended. Bake in 2–4 cookie batches.
Medium (4–5.8 qt)	325°F	7–9 minutes	Most common size. Ideal for 4–6 cookies.
Large (6+ qt)	330°F	8–10 minutes	Less intense airflow. Can fit up to 8 cookies.
Dual-Basket (e.g., Ninja Foodi)	325°F (each basket)	7–9 minutes	Bake two batches simultaneously. Sync timers.
Oven-Style (with rotisserie)	320°F	9–11 minutes	Use the baking tray or basket. Rotate halfway.

Pro tip: Keep a cooking journal! Note the settings and results for your specific air fryer. This helps you perfect your technique over time.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try Baking Pillsbury Cookies in the Air Fryer?

So, can you put Pillsbury cookies in the air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s faster, more energy-efficient, and often delivers better texture than a conventional oven. The key is adjusting for your air fryer’s quirks: lower the temperature slightly, reduce the time, and don’t overcrowd the basket.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick after-school treat, a college student with limited kitchen access, or just someone who loves experimenting with kitchen gadgets, this method is a game-changer. Pillsbury cookies were already convenient—now they’re instant.

But remember: every air fryer is different. Don’t be afraid to tweak the settings. Start low and slow, watch your cookies like a hawk (okay, maybe not that intense), and enjoy the process. And if you mess up the first batch? That’s fine. Even the best bakers have off days. The important thing is you’re trying something new—and that’s what makes cooking fun.

So go ahead, grab a package of Pillsbury cookies, fire up your air fryer, and treat yourself to warm, gooey, perfectly baked cookies in under 15 minutes. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you. And who knows? You might just discover your new favorite way to bake. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put Pillsbury cookies in the air fryer?

Yes, you can safely bake Pillsbury cookie dough in the air fryer for a quick, crispy treat. Just adjust the temperature and time to avoid overcooking.

What temperature should I set the air fryer to for Pillsbury cookies?

Set your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for Pillsbury cookies to ensure even baking without burning. Preheating the air fryer for 2-3 minutes is recommended for best results.

How long do Pillsbury cookies take to cook in the air fryer?

Pillsbury cookies typically take 6-8 minutes in the air fryer, depending on size and desired doneness. Check them at 6 minutes to avoid over-baking.

Do I need to use parchment paper or foil when air frying Pillsbury cookies?

Yes, lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper or foil prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Leave space around the edges for proper air circulation.

Can you put Pillsbury cookie dough balls directly in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Place frozen or refrigerated Pillsbury cookie dough balls in the air fryer, leaving space between them for expansion. Lightly press them down for even cooking.

Why are my Pillsbury cookies burning in the air fryer?

Air fryers vary in heat intensity, so cookies may cook faster than expected. Reduce the temperature by 25°F or check them 1-2 minutes earlier to prevent burning.