Can I Cook Biscuits in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can absolutely cook biscuits in the air fryer—it’s a fast, easy way to achieve golden, flaky results in under 15 minutes. With no preheating required and minimal cleanup, air fryer biscuits are a game-changer for quick breakfasts or snacks. Just place them in a single layer, set the temperature to 325°F (160°C), and cook for 8–12 minutes for perfect texture every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook biscuits in the air fryer—it’s fast and yields crispy, fluffy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
• Use parchment paper or silicone liners to avoid mess and simplify cleanup.
• Cook in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure proper air circulation.
• Adjust time and temperature based on biscuit size and air fryer model.
• Check for doneness early—air fryers vary, and biscuits cook quickly.

Can I Cook Biscuits in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier and faster alternative to traditional deep frying and even conventional baking. With its rapid air circulation technology, the air fryer promises crispy exteriors and tender interiors without the need for excessive oil. As more people embrace this kitchen gadget, one question keeps popping up: Can I cook biscuits in the air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes—but there’s much more to it than simply popping them in and pressing start. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or a seasoned home cook, learning how to bake biscuits in your air fryer can save time, reduce cleanup, and yield delicious results.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into everything you need to know about air fryer biscuits. From understanding the science behind how they cook to mastering the best techniques for flaky, golden perfection, we’ll walk you through the process step by step. You’ll discover how to adapt your favorite recipes, avoid common pitfalls, and even experiment with creative variations. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge to confidently whip up air-fried biscuits that rival those from your oven—or better.

Understanding How Air Fryers Work for Baking Biscuits

The Science Behind Air Fryer Cooking

Air fryers use a powerful heating element and a high-speed fan to circulate hot air around food at temperatures typically ranging from 175°F to 400°F (80°C to 205°C). This method mimics convection ovens but in a smaller, more efficient footprint. Unlike deep frying, which submerges food in oil, air frying relies on radiant heat and forced convection to create a Maillard reaction—the chemical process responsible for browning and flavor development—while using only a minimal amount of oil (if any).

For biscuits, this means the outside can achieve a crisp, golden crust while the inside remains soft and fluffy. The key lies in the even distribution of heat and the ability to control temperature and timing precisely. Because air fryers have limited space compared to ovens, they heat up faster and maintain consistent temperatures, reducing the risk of undercooked centers or burnt edges.

Why Biscuits Are Ideal for Air Fryer Cooking

Biscuits are naturally suited for air fryer preparation due to their relatively small size and quick cooking time. Traditional drop biscuits, canned biscuits, and even homemade buttermilk varieties benefit from the air fryer’s rapid airflow. The compact cooking chamber ensures that each biscuit receives equal exposure to hot air, minimizing hot spots that can lead to uneven browning.

• Speed: Air fryer biscuits cook 20–40% faster than in a conventional oven, often in 8–12 minutes.
• Energy Efficiency: Smaller space means less energy consumption, ideal for single servings or small batches.
• Ease of Use: No need to preheat for long periods; most models reach optimal temperature in under 5 minutes.
• Texture Control: Adjustable settings allow you to fine-tune crispiness based on preference.

Moreover, the air fryer’s non-stick basket or tray prevents sticking without requiring excessive greasing, making cleanup a breeze. This makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, breakfast on the go, or even impromptu snacks.

Best Types of Biscuits to Cook in an Air Fryer

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits

Homemade buttermilk biscuits are a classic Southern favorite, and they translate beautifully to the air fryer. The key is to keep the dough cold and handle it minimally to preserve the flakiness. Start by preparing your dough using cold butter or shortening, buttermilk, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Roll or pat the dough to about ¾-inch thickness and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass.

Pro Tip: For extra flakiness, layer the dough by folding it over itself 2–3 times before cutting. This creates more air pockets, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture.

When air frying, place the biscuits close together (but not touching) to encourage rising. Brush the tops with melted butter or buttermilk for a golden, glossy finish. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through if your model doesn’t have even airflow. The result? Golden, buttery biscuits with a tender crumb that’s hard to beat.

Canned Refrigerator Biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury)

Canned biscuits are a lifesaver for quick meals, and the air fryer is their perfect partner. Brands like Pillsbury Grands, Jumbo, and Buttermilk biscuits work exceptionally well. Simply remove them from the can, separate, and place them in the air fryer basket.

No preheating is strictly necessary, but a 2-minute preheat at 350°F (175°C) helps ensure even cooking. Arrange the biscuits in a single layer, leaving a small gap between each to allow airflow. Cook for 8–12 minutes, depending on size, until golden brown and fully puffed. A quick spray of non-stick cooking spray on the basket prevents sticking.

Bonus Idea: Turn canned biscuits into air fryer cinnamon rolls by flattening them, spreading with cinnamon sugar, rolling tightly, slicing into rounds, and cooking at 330°F for 10–12 minutes.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free and dairy-free biscuits also perform well in the air fryer. Use pre-made mixes like King Arthur Gluten-Free or Bob’s Red Mill, or make your own with almond flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Replace dairy with plant-based milk (oat, soy, almond) and vegan butter or coconut oil.

Note: Gluten-free doughs are often stickier and more delicate. To prevent spreading, chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before cutting. Cook at a slightly lower temperature (330–350°F) for 10–14 minutes to avoid drying out.

Sweet and Savory Variations

Air fryer biscuits aren’t limited to traditional savory styles. Try sweet variations like:

• Blueberry Biscuits: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the dough and brush with honey glaze after baking.
• Cheese and Herb: Add shredded cheddar, chives, and garlic powder for a savory twist.
• Pumpkin Spice: Mix canned pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar into the dough for fall flavors.

These variations cook just as easily as plain biscuits—sometimes even faster due to added moisture content. Just monitor closely to prevent over-browning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Biscuits in the Air Fryer

Preparing Your Air Fryer and Ingredients

Before you start, ensure your air fryer is clean and free of debris. Lightly spray the basket or tray with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a parchment liner (make sure it doesn’t cover the sides, which could block airflow). If using parchment, cut it to fit and poke small holes for better circulation.

For homemade biscuits, have all ingredients measured and chilled. For canned biscuits, let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to make separating easier. Preheat your air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F (175°C)—this step is optional but recommended for even browning.

Arranging Biscuits for Optimal Airflow

Proper spacing is crucial. Biscuits need room to rise and brown evenly. Arrange them in a single layer with at least ½ inch between each. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping, resulting in dense, pale biscuits.

Tip: If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches. Never stack biscuits unless you’re making a layered casserole (like a breakfast bake).

Cooking Time and Temperature Settings

Most biscuits cook best between 330°F and 375°F (165°C–190°C). Here’s a general guideline:

• Small biscuits (2-inch diameter): 350°F, 8–10 minutes
• Medium biscuits (3-inch): 350°F, 10–12 minutes
• Large or jumbo biscuits: 330°F, 12–15 minutes (lower temp prevents over-browning)

Flip or rotate biscuits halfway through if your air fryer has uneven heat distribution (common in basket-style models). Use tongs or a fork carefully to avoid deflating them.

Checking for Doneness

Biscuits are done when they’re golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with dry crumbs, they’re ready. Undercooked biscuits will feel dense and doughy; overcooked ones will be dry and crumbly.

Let them rest in the basket for 1–2 minutes after cooking. This allows residual heat to finish cooking the interior without burning the outside.

Finishing Touches

For extra flavor and shine, brush warm biscuits with:

• Melted butter
• Honey or maple syrup
• Garlic butter (for savory)
• Cinnamon sugar (for sweet)

Serve immediately for the best texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

One of the most frequent errors is trying to cook too many biscuits at once. Overcrowding blocks airflow, causing biscuits to steam rather than crisp. This leads to soggy bottoms and pale tops. Always cook in batches if needed, and never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended capacity.

Incorrect Temperature Settings

Setting the temperature too high can burn the outside before the inside cooks through. Conversely, too low a temperature results in dense, undercooked biscuits. Stick to the 330–375°F range and adjust based on your model and biscuit size.

Skipping the Preheat (Sometimes)

While not always mandatory, preheating ensures consistent results. Cold baskets absorb heat, which can lower the cooking temperature during the first few minutes. Preheating for 2–3 minutes helps maintain steady heat from the start.

Not Flipping or Rotating

Basket-style air fryers often have hot spots near the heating element. To prevent uneven browning, flip biscuits halfway through or rotate the basket 180 degrees. This is especially important for larger biscuits or models without 360° airflow.

Using the Wrong Pan or Liner

Avoid silicone mats that cover the entire basket—they can block airflow. Instead, use perforated parchment paper or leave the basket unlined with a light spray of oil. If using a pan, ensure it’s air fryer-safe and doesn’t block the vents.

Ignoring Moisture Content

Sweet biscuits with fruit or syrup may release moisture during cooking, leading to sogginess. To counter this, pat fruits dry before folding into the dough, or cook at a slightly lower temperature for a few extra minutes.

Data Table: Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Times and Tips

Biscuit Type	Size	Temperature	Cooking Time	Special Tips
Homemade Buttermilk	2–3 inches	350°F (175°C)	8–10 minutes	Keep dough cold; brush with butter pre-cook
Pillsbury Grands	3 inches	350°F (175°C)	10–12 minutes	Preheat 2 min; flip halfway
Gluten-Free Mix	2.5 inches	330°F (165°C)	10–14 minutes	Chill dough; avoid overhandling
Blueberry (Homemade)	2.5 inches	340°F (170°C)	9–11 minutes	Pat blueberries dry; check for doneness early
Cheese & Herb (Canned)	3 inches	350°F (175°C)	11–13 minutes	Add cheese after 8 min to prevent burning
Mini Cinnamon Rolls (Canned)	1.5 inches	330°F (165°C)	8–10 minutes	Roll tightly; slice into 1-inch rounds

This table serves as a quick reference for different biscuit types and sizes. Always monitor your air fryer during cooking, as results may vary slightly depending on model, altitude, and dough moisture. Use this as a starting point and adjust as needed for your specific setup.

Conclusion: Mastering Biscuits in Your Air Fryer

So, can you cook biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely—and with the right techniques, you can do it better than in a traditional oven. The air fryer offers speed, efficiency, and consistent results, making it an ideal tool for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of homemade buttermilk biscuits for Sunday brunch, transforming canned dough into savory cheese rolls, or experimenting with gluten-free sweet treats, the air fryer delivers flaky, golden perfection with minimal effort.

By understanding how air fryers work, choosing the right biscuit type, following proper spacing and timing, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll unlock a new level of convenience and flavor in your kitchen. The ability to cook small batches quickly means no more wasting energy on a full oven for just a few biscuits. Plus, cleanup is a snap—no greasy pans or splattered ovens.

As you continue to explore air fryer cooking, remember that flexibility is key. Don’t be afraid to tweak temperatures, try new ingredients, or adapt your favorite recipes. The air fryer is a versatile appliance, and biscuits are just the beginning. From breakfast to dinner, snacks to desserts, this compact powerhouse can handle it all.

So go ahead—pop those biscuits in the air fryer, set the timer, and enjoy the aroma of fresh, homemade goodness in minutes. With this guide in hand, you’re well on your way to becoming an air fryer biscuit pro. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook biscuits in the air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient method that yields golden, flaky results in less time than a conventional oven.

How long do biscuits take to cook in an air fryer?

Most biscuits cook in 8–12 minutes at 350°F (175°C) in an air fryer, depending on their size and the model. Check them early to avoid over-browning.

Do I need to adjust the temperature when cooking biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, air fryers cook faster, so reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) from the package instructions. This helps prevent burning while ensuring even cooking.

Can I cook store-bought canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Definitely! Arrange canned biscuits in a single layer, leaving space between each, and cook at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes. They turn out light and fluffy.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer for biscuits?

Preheating for 3–5 minutes ensures consistent results, but it’s optional. If skipping preheat, add 1–2 minutes to the cooking time for best texture.

Can I cook homemade biscuit dough in the air fryer?

Yes, homemade biscuit dough works great in the air fryer. Shape into rounds, lightly brush with butter, and cook at 330°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes until puffed and golden.