Can Frozen Biscuits Be Cooked in an Air Fryer Try This Easy Method

Yes, frozen biscuits can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer—no thawing needed—delivering golden, flaky results in under 15 minutes. Simply preheat, arrange in a single layer, and air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. This quick, mess-free method beats the oven, saving time and energy while keeping biscuits tender inside and crisp outside.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer—no thawing needed.
• Preheat for best results: Always preheat the air fryer to 320°F first.
• Space them out: Leave room between biscuits for even air circulation.
• Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding to ensure golden, fluffy biscuits.
• Flip halfway: Turn biscuits for consistent browning and crispness.
• Check early: Start checking at 8 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Why Cooking Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer Might Be Your New Kitchen Hack

Let’s be honest—mornings can be chaotic. Between packing lunches, wrangling kids, and trying to find matching socks, the last thing you want is to spend 20 minutes preheating your oven just to cook a few frozen biscuits. That’s where the air fryer comes in. This compact kitchen gadget has been a game-changer for me, especially when I need to cook something fast, with minimal mess and maximum crispiness. But can frozen biscuits be cooked in an air fryer? Spoiler: Yes, and it’s easier than you think.

I remember the first time I tried cooking frozen biscuits in my air fryer. I was skeptical—would they turn out dry? Undercooked? Or worse, stuck to the basket? But after a few trial runs (and one slightly overcooked batch), I discovered a method that delivers golden, fluffy, and perfectly cooked biscuits in under 15 minutes. No preheating, no flipping, and no greasy pans. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can skip the oven and go straight to the air fryer, keep reading. I’m about to share everything I’ve learned—from timing and temperature to troubleshooting tips and even a few creative twists.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science Behind Crispy, Even Cooking

Before we dive into the specifics of cooking frozen biscuits, let’s talk about how air fryers actually work. Understanding the basics will help you get the best results, whether you’re cooking biscuits, chicken wings, or even veggies.

Hot Air Circulation: The Secret to Even Cooking

An air fryer is basically a mini convection oven. It uses a powerful fan to circulate hot air around the food at high speed. This rapid airflow creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist—perfect for frozen biscuits that need to go from icy solid to golden perfection.

Unlike a traditional oven, which can take 10–15 minutes to preheat, an air fryer heats up almost instantly. This means you can go from frozen biscuits to breakfast in under 20 minutes total. Plus, the compact cooking chamber ensures even heat distribution, so every biscuit cooks at the same rate.

Why This Matters for Frozen Biscuits

Frozen biscuits are already pre-cooked and just need to be reheated and browned. The air fryer’s fast, intense heat helps them develop a crisp crust without drying out the inside. But here’s the catch: too high a temperature or too long a cook time can lead to burnt edges and a doughy center. That’s why knowing the right settings is key.

For example, I once set my air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and cooked the biscuits for 12 minutes. The result? A charred exterior and a raw center. Lesson learned: lower and slower is better. Most frozen biscuits do best between 325°F and 350°F (160–175°C) for 8–12 minutes.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: A Quick Comparison

Here’s why I often reach for the air fryer instead of the oven when cooking frozen biscuits:

• Speed: Air fryer preheats in seconds; oven takes 10–15 minutes.
• Energy: Air fryers use less electricity, which is great for small batches.
• Crispiness: Air fryers create a more uniform golden crust.
• Cleanup: No greasy baking sheets to scrub.

Of course, if you’re cooking a dozen biscuits, the oven might be more practical. But for 2–4 biscuits, the air fryer wins every time.

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

Now that you understand how air fryers work, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here’s my tried-and-true method for cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer—no guesswork required.

What You’ll Need

• Frozen biscuits (any brand or style—Pillsbury, Great Value, etc.)
• Air fryer
• Tongs or a spatula (for easy removal)
• Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper (optional, but helpful)

Step 1: Arrange the Biscuits in the Basket

Place the frozen biscuits in the air fryer basket, leaving at least ½ inch of space between each one. This ensures the hot air can circulate evenly. Overcrowding is the #1 mistake people make—it leads to uneven cooking and soggy biscuits.

Pro Tip: If your air fryer has a wire rack, use it. It elevates the biscuits and improves airflow. No rack? No problem. Just make sure they’re not touching.

Step 2: Set the Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 325°F (160°C). This lower temperature prevents burning while allowing the inside to cook through. For most frozen biscuits, cook for 8–10 minutes.

Why start low? High heat (like 375°F+) can brown the outside too quickly before the inside thaws. Starting at 325°F gives you more control.

Step 3: Check at the 8-Minute Mark

After 8 minutes, open the basket and check the biscuits. They should be golden brown on top and slightly puffed. If they’re not done, close the basket and cook for 1–2 more minutes.

Don’t peek too early! Opening the basket frequently lets heat escape, which can add minutes to your cook time.

Step 4: Remove and Rest

Use tongs or a spatula to remove the biscuits. They’ll be hot, so let them rest for 1–2 minutes before eating. This allows the heat to distribute evenly, making them easier to handle and less likely to burn your mouth.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with butter, jam, or as part of a breakfast sandwich. I love adding a slice of cheese and a fried egg for a quick morning treat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Biscuits are too dark: Lower the temperature to 310°F next time or reduce cook time by 1–2 minutes.
• Center is still doughy: Increase cook time by 1–2 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
• Biscuits stick to the basket: Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray or use parchment paper with holes.

Best Frozen Biscuits for Air Frying: A Taste Test Breakdown

Not all frozen biscuits are created equal. Some hold up better in the air fryer than others. Over the past year, I’ve tested several popular brands to find the best ones for crispy, fluffy results.

1. Pillsbury Grands! Frozen Biscuits

Why they work: These are the gold standard for frozen biscuits. They’re large, buttery, and puff up beautifully in the air fryer. At 325°F for 9 minutes, they come out golden with a tender crumb.

Tip: Separate the layers slightly before cooking for extra flakiness.

2. Great Value (Walmart) Homestyle Biscuits

Why they work: Affordable and consistent. They cook evenly and have a classic buttery flavor. I’ve found they do slightly better at 330°F for 10 minutes.

Tip: These are smaller than Pillsbury, so you can fit more in the basket.

3. Trader Joe’s Buttermilk Biscuits

Why they work: Rich, tangy flavor and a soft interior. They brown quickly, so I recommend 325°F for 8 minutes and a quick check at 7 minutes.

Tip: These are delicate, so handle them gently when removing from the basket.

4. Annie’s Homegrown Organic Biscuits

Why they work: A great organic option. They’re slightly denser, so I cook them at 325°F for 11 minutes. The flavor is milder, which pairs well with savory toppings.

Tip: These are best with a light brush of melted butter after cooking.

5. Store-Brand “Value” Biscuits (Avoid These)

Some budget brands use lower-quality ingredients and have a cardboard-like texture. They tend to dry out in the air fryer and lack the fluffiness of premium brands. Stick to well-known names for the best results.

Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Air-Fried Biscuits

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. Air-fried biscuits are incredibly versatile—here are some of my favorite ways to jazz them up.

Savory Twists

• Biscuit Sliders: Split a biscuit in half and fill with pulled pork, cheese, and pickles.
• Sausage & Egg Sandwiches: Cook a sausage patty and fried egg in the air fryer, then sandwich between two biscuits.
• Breakfast Pizzas: Top a biscuit with marinara sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Air fry for 2 extra minutes to melt the cheese.

Sweet Ideas

• Biscuit Donuts: Cut a hole in the center of the biscuit before cooking, then dust with cinnamon sugar.
• Fruit & Cream: Top with sliced strawberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of honey.
• Cinnamon Roll Biscuits: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and roll up before air frying.

Global Flavors

• Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits: Mix shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños into the biscuit dough before freezing (if making from scratch) or sprinkle on top before air frying.
• Curry Butter Glaze: Melt butter with a pinch of curry powder and brush over cooked biscuits.
• Everything Bagel Style: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before cooking.

Pro Tips for Flavor Boosts

• Brush with garlic butter after cooking for extra richness.
• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for a savory kick.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best cooks make mistakes. Here are the most common issues I’ve seen (and made!) when cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer—and how to fix them.

Mistake #1: Overcrowding the Basket

Problem: Biscuits touching each other steam instead of crisp, leading to soggy edges.

Solution: Leave at least ½ inch between biscuits. If you have a small air fryer, cook in batches.

Mistake #2: Using Too High a Temperature

Problem: Biscuits burn on the outside before the inside is fully cooked.

Solution: Stick to 325°F–330°F. If your air fryer runs hot, try 310°F.

Mistake #3: Not Checking for Doneness

Problem: Biscuits look golden but are still doughy inside.

Solution: Check at the 8-minute mark. Use a toothpick to test the center—it should come out clean.

Mistake #4: Forgetting to Spray the Basket

Problem: Biscuits stick and tear when removed.

Solution: Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray or use parchment paper with holes (not solid parchment, which blocks airflow).

Mistake #5: Not Letting Biscuits Rest

Problem: Biscuits are too hot to handle and lose their shape.

Solution: Let them rest for 1–2 minutes after cooking. They’ll firm up and be easier to serve.

Mistake #6: Using Wet or Damp Biscuits

Problem: If you thaw biscuits before cooking, they can become soggy.

Solution: Cook them frozen. No thawing needed!

Cooking Time & Temperature Guide for Popular Frozen Biscuits

Here’s a quick-reference table for cooking different frozen biscuits in an air fryer. All times are approximate and may vary based on your air fryer model.

Brand/Style	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Pillsbury Grands!	325°F (160°C)	9 minutes	Check at 8 min. Puff up nicely.
Great Value Homestyle	330°F (165°C)	10 minutes	Smaller size; fits more in basket.
Trader Joe’s Buttermilk	325°F (160°C)	8 minutes	Delicate; handle gently.
Annie’s Organic	325°F (160°C)	11 minutes	Denser texture; needs extra time.
Store-Brand “Flaky”	325°F (160°C)	8–9 minutes	Separate layers slightly first.

Final Thoughts: Why Air-Fried Biscuits Deserve a Spot in Your Routine

Can frozen biscuits be cooked in an air fryer? Absolutely—and they might just become your new go-to breakfast. The air fryer delivers crispy, golden biscuits in a fraction of the time it takes to preheat an oven. Plus, it’s energy-efficient, easy to clean, and perfect for small batches.

I’ve found that once you master the timing and temperature, air-fried biscuits are nearly foolproof. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a Sunday morning or just treating yourself to a quick snack, this method is fast, reliable, and delicious. And with a little creativity, you can turn them into sliders, donuts, or even breakfast pizzas.

So next time you’re staring at a box of frozen biscuits and dreading the oven, try the air fryer. You’ll save time, energy, and cleanup—and you might just discover your new favorite way to cook them. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can frozen biscuits be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen biscuits can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer! This method yields golden, flaky results in less time than a conventional oven. Just preheat the air fryer and adjust the cooking time slightly.

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

Cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Exact time may vary depending on the biscuit size and air fryer model.

Do you need to thaw frozen biscuits before air frying?

No, you can air fry frozen biscuits directly from the freezer—no thawing needed. This makes the process quick and convenient, perfect for last-minute meals or snacks.

What’s the best way to prevent frozen biscuits from drying out in an air fryer?

To keep air fryer frozen biscuits moist, lightly spray them with oil or brush with melted butter before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even heat circulation.

Can you cook store-bought frozen biscuits in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Store-bought frozen biscuits (like Pillsbury or Great Value) cook well in an air fryer. Follow the same temperature and timing guidelines for homemade frozen biscuits.

Why cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer instead of an oven?

Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is faster and more energy-efficient than using an oven. The air fryer’s circulating heat also creates a crispier exterior while keeping the inside tender.