Can Biscuits in Air Fryer Get Crispy and Delicious

Yes, biscuits in an air fryer can turn out crispy and delicious when cooked at the right temperature (325°F–350°F) for 8–12 minutes, achieving a golden exterior while staying fluffy inside. This method beats traditional baking by delivering faster, more even results with minimal oil—perfect for quick snacks or golden breakfast treats.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryer biscuits get crispy: Achieve golden, flaky results with proper timing.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• Space biscuits apart: Prevents steaming and promotes air circulation.
• Check early to avoid burning: Air fryers vary—monitor at 8 minutes.
• Brush with butter for extra crunch: Enhances flavor and texture.

Why You Should Try Baking Biscuits in Your Air Fryer

Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown biscuit—crispy on the outside, fluffy and tender on the inside—without the hassle of preheating your oven or waiting for it to reach the perfect temperature. This is the magic of cooking can biscuits in air fryer. Whether you’re using refrigerated canned biscuits like Pillsbury, store-bought dough, or even homemade biscuit dough, your air fryer can transform them into restaurant-quality delights in a fraction of the time. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation technology mimics the effects of deep frying or convection baking, delivering even heat and a satisfying crunch that many home cooks find irresistible.

But why has this method gained such popularity? For starters, air fryers are energy-efficient, compact, and perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RV living. They eliminate the need to turn on a large oven just for a few biscuits, saving time and electricity. Plus, the results are consistently better than traditional stovetop methods or even standard baking in some cases. The key lies in the air fryer’s ability to circulate hot air around the food at high speed, creating a Maillard reaction that browns the surface while preserving the moisture inside. This makes can biscuits in air fryer not just possible, but highly recommended for anyone seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How the Air Fryer Transforms Canned Biscuits

The Science Behind Air Frying Biscuits

To understand why canned biscuits turn out so well in an air fryer, it helps to grasp the science behind air frying. Unlike conventional ovens that rely on radiant heat, air fryers use rapid convection—hot air is blown around the food at high velocity, ensuring even cooking from all angles. This process reduces moisture on the surface of the biscuit, encouraging browning and crispiness, while the interior remains soft and airy. The result? A perfect balance between crunch and fluffiness that’s hard to achieve otherwise.

When you place a canned biscuit into the air fryer basket, the outer layer begins to cook immediately. As the temperature rises (typically between 350°F and 375°F), the fats in the dough melt and redistribute, helping to create a golden crust. Meanwhile, steam builds up inside the biscuit, causing it to rise and flake beautifully. This dual-action—surface browning and internal expansion—is exactly what makes can biscuits in air fryer so appealing.

Texture and Flavor Advantages

One of the biggest advantages of air frying canned biscuits is the improved texture. Oven-baked biscuits often come out slightly dry or unevenly cooked, especially if they’re not rotated halfway through. In contrast, air fryer biscuits develop a uniformly crispy exterior with a soft, layered interior. The rapid airflow prevents sogginess, which can happen when biscuits steam in a covered baking dish.

Flavor-wise, the Maillard reaction enhances the natural buttery taste of most canned biscuit brands. You may even notice a subtle nuttiness or caramelization that’s absent in oven-baked versions. For an extra flavor boost, consider brushing the tops with melted butter, sprinkling with garlic powder, or dusting with cinnamon sugar before air frying. These small tweaks elevate the humble canned biscuit into something truly gourmet.

Time and Energy Efficiency

Another major benefit is efficiency. Most canned biscuits take 10–15 minutes in a conventional oven, but in an air fryer, they’re ready in just 8–10 minutes. That’s a 20–30% time savings—significant when you’re rushing to prepare breakfast or a quick snack. Additionally, air fryers preheat in under 3 minutes, whereas ovens can take 10–15 minutes. This means you’re not only saving cooking time but also reducing overall energy consumption.

For busy families, shift workers, or college students, this efficiency is a game-changer. You can pop a few biscuits in the air fryer while getting dressed or packing lunch, and have a hot, satisfying meal ready by the time you’re done. No more cold, stale biscuits or wasted leftovers!

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Canned Biscuits in Air Fryer

Choosing the Right Biscuit Brand and Size

Not all canned biscuits are created equal, and some perform better in the air fryer than others. Popular brands like Pillsbury Grands!, Immaculate Baking, and Annie’s Organic work exceptionally well due to their consistent dough composition and pre-cut sizes. However, the size and thickness of the biscuit matter. Larger biscuits (e.g., Grands!) take longer to cook and may require flipping halfway, while smaller “mini” biscuits cook faster and more evenly.

For best results, choose biscuits that are uniform in size. Avoid over-stuffing the air fryer basket—this restricts airflow and leads to uneven cooking. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least ½ inch between each biscuit. If you’re cooking a full can of 8 biscuits, consider doing two batches to ensure optimal crispiness.

Preparing the Air Fryer and Biscuits

Before you begin, preheat your air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This helps achieve a consistent start temperature, crucial for even browning. While the air fryer heats, prepare your biscuits:

• Open the can and separate the biscuits carefully to maintain their shape.
• Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray, olive oil, or avocado oil to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the biscuits in a single layer, leaving space between them for air circulation.
• Optional: Brush the tops with melted butter or milk for extra shine and flavor.
• Sprinkle with seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, or cinnamon sugar, depending on your recipe.

Pro tip: If your air fryer has a non-stick coating, you may not need oil. However, using a light mist of oil improves browning and prevents the edges from drying out.

Cooking Time and Temperature Settings

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the biscuits for 8–10 minutes for standard-sized biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury Grands!). For mini biscuits, reduce the time to 6–7 minutes. Halfway through, open the basket and gently flip each biscuit using tongs or a silicone spatula. This ensures both sides brown evenly and prevents the bottom from becoming too hard.

After flipping, close the basket and continue cooking. The biscuits are done when they’re golden brown on top, sound hollow when tapped, and have risen significantly. Use a digital meat thermometer to check internal temperature—it should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for safe consumption.

Note: Air fryer models vary. Ninja, Cosori, Instant Vortex, and Philips models may require slight adjustments. Always monitor the first batch to fine-tune timing for your specific device.

Cooling and Serving Tips

Once cooked, remove the biscuits immediately to prevent overcooking from residual heat. Place them on a wire rack for 1–2 minutes to cool slightly—this also prevents the bottoms from getting soggy. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Pair your air-fried biscuits with:

• Salted butter or honey butter
• Homemade jam or preserves
• Sausage gravy (for a Southern-style treat)
• Fresh fruit compote
• Cheese or scrambled eggs for a savory twist

Creative Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Savory Biscuit Twists

Why stop at plain biscuits? The air fryer is perfect for experimenting with savory flavor combinations. Try these easy upgrades:

• Cheesy Herb Biscuits: Press shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella into the top of each biscuit before air frying. Add dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic touch.
• Garlic Parmesan Biscuits: Brush melted butter mixed with minced garlic and grated Parmesan onto the biscuits halfway through cooking. Sprinkle with fresh parsley at the end.
• Breakfast Biscuit Sandwiches: Air fry the biscuits, then slice and fill with scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, and cheese. Toast the filled sandwich in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 350°F for a warm, melty finish.
• Spicy Jalapeño Popper Biscuits: Mix cream cheese and diced jalapeños into the dough (if using homemade), or top canned biscuits with the mixture before cooking.

Sweet and Dessert-Inspired Biscuits

Turn your canned biscuits into decadent desserts with minimal effort:

• Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits: Brush with melted butter, then roll in a mix of cinnamon and sugar immediately after cooking. Serve with vanilla ice cream for a “biscuit à la mode.”
• Apple Pie Biscuits: Place a small spoonful of apple pie filling on each biscuit before air frying. Top with a crumb streusel or crushed graham crackers.
• Stuffed Chocolate Biscuits: Insert a piece of dark chocolate or a mini marshmallow into the center of each biscuit before cooking. The filling will melt into a gooey center.
• Maple Bacon Biscuits: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon on top before air frying. Drizzle with warm maple syrup after cooking.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Good news: you can still enjoy can biscuits in air fryer if you have dietary restrictions. Brands like Glutino and Bob’s Red Mill offer gluten-free refrigerated biscuit dough. Vegan options are available from Immaculate Baking and Annie’s. The air frying process works the same way—just ensure the dough is safe for your needs.

For homemade versions, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour, and use vegan butter or coconut oil in place of dairy. Add plant-based milk if the dough seems dry. Air fry as usual, but check for doneness 1–2 minutes earlier, as some alternative flours cook faster.

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Problems

Biscuits Are Too Dry or Hard

If your biscuits turn out dry or overly crisp, it’s likely due to:

• Overcooking: Reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes. Remember, air fryers vary, so start checking at the 7-minute mark.
• High temperature: Try lowering the setting to 325°F for the first half of cooking, then increase to 350°F for browning.
• Lack of fat: Brush with butter or oil before and during cooking to keep the surface moist.

Solution: Always monitor the first batch and adjust accordingly. Keep a cooking log for your specific air fryer model.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

Sticking is a common issue, especially with older or scratched baskets. To prevent this:

• Always use non-stick spray or a light oil coating.
• Consider using parchment paper liners or silicone air fryer mats (cut to fit).
• Let biscuits cool for 1 minute before removing—this helps release them more easily.

Never use metal utensils to scrape the basket. Use silicone or wooden tools instead to preserve the non-stick coating.

Uneven Cooking or Browning

If one side is golden and the other is pale, it’s usually due to:

• Not flipping: Always flip biscuits halfway through cooking.
• Overcrowding: Leave space for air circulation. Cook in batches if needed.
• Uneven heat distribution: Rotate the basket 180 degrees after flipping for even exposure.

Pro tip: Place biscuits with their seams facing down initially—they rise better and brown more evenly.

Biscuits Don’t Rise Enough

Flat biscuits can result from:

• Old or expired dough: Check the expiration date on the can.
• Overhandling: Don’t press or flatten the biscuits before cooking.
• Low temperature: Ensure your air fryer reaches and maintains 350°F.

Solution: Use fresh dough and avoid disturbing the biscuits once placed in the basket.

Comparing Air Fryer vs. Oven-Baked Biscuits: A Data Breakdown

To truly appreciate the benefits of can biscuits in air fryer, let’s compare key metrics side by side. Below is a data table summarizing the differences between air fryer and conventional oven methods using Pillsbury Grands! biscuits as a benchmark.

Metric	Air Fryer (350°F)	Oven (375°F)
Cooking Time	8–10 minutes	12–15 minutes
Preheat Time	2–3 minutes	10–15 minutes
Energy Use (kWh)	0.15–0.20	0.30–0.40
Surface Crispiness (1–10)	9	6
Interior Fluffiness (1–10)	8	9
Ease of Use	High (no flipping needed in some models)	Medium (requires rotation)
Cleanup Time	2–3 minutes (non-stick basket)	5–7 minutes (baking sheet, oven residue)
Space Required	Compact (fits on counter)	Large (requires full oven)

This data shows that the air fryer wins in speed, energy efficiency, and surface crispiness, while the oven still holds a slight edge in interior fluffiness due to slower, gentler heat. However, with proper flipping and timing, the air fryer can achieve near-perfect results with far less effort and cost.

Conclusion: The Air Fryer Biscuit Revolution

The answer to the question “Can biscuits in air fryer get crispy and delicious?” is a resounding yes. With the right technique, your air fryer can produce biscuits that rival those from professional bakeries—crispy, golden exteriors, soft and flaky interiors, and a depth of flavor that elevates even the most basic canned dough. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or a home cook looking to simplify your routine, this method offers unmatched convenience, speed, and consistency.

From classic buttered biscuits to creative savory and sweet variations, the possibilities are endless. You can adapt recipes for dietary needs, experiment with global flavors, or even turn biscuits into full meals. The air fryer’s versatility ensures that your can biscuits in air fryer experience is never boring or repetitive.

So, the next time you reach for a can of biscuits, skip the oven. Fire up your air fryer, follow our step-by-step guide, and enjoy a faster, crispier, and more delicious result. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll wonder how you ever baked biscuits any other way. Embrace the air fryer revolution—one golden, flaky biscuit at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can biscuits in air fryer turn out crispy like oven-baked ones?

Yes, biscuits in an air fryer can achieve a crispy exterior while staying tender inside, thanks to the rapid circulation of hot air. Preheating the air fryer and avoiding overcrowding ensures even browning.

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

Most canned biscuits take 8–12 minutes at 325°F (160°C) in the air fryer. Flip them halfway for consistent crispiness, and check for golden-brown tops.

Do you need to adjust air fryer settings for homemade biscuits?

Yes, homemade biscuits may require slightly longer cooking (10–15 minutes at 325°F) depending on thickness. Monitor them closely to prevent over-browning.

Can you stack biscuits in the air fryer for faster cooking?

Stacking biscuits can lead to uneven cooking—air fry them in a single layer with space between each. Use the basket’s rack if doubling batches.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover biscuits in an air fryer?

Reheat biscuits at 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes. This restores crispness without drying them out, unlike microwaving.

Can biscuits in air fryer be made healthier?

Absolutely! Air frying reduces oil needed compared to traditional methods. Opt for whole-grain biscuit dough for a fiber-rich twist.