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

Yes, you can cook canned biscuits in the air fryer for a quick, golden-brown treat with minimal effort. Preheat the air fryer to 325°F, arrange biscuits in a single layer, and cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning—no oil needed. Perfect for flaky, fluffy results in under 10 minutes!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fry canned biscuits safely with great results.
• Preheat first: Ensures even cooking and proper rise every time.
• Space them out: Prevent overcrowding for crispier, golden-brown biscuits.
• Adjust time: Cook 2-4 minutes less than oven instructions.
• Check early: Avoid burning—air fryers vary in heat intensity.
• No oil needed: Canned biscuits crisp up perfectly without extra fat.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Busy Home Cooks

Let’s be honest: we’ve all had those mornings where the alarm goes off, the coffee machine sputters to life, and you’re standing in front of the fridge wondering how you’ll ever get breakfast on the table without a major time crunch. That’s where the air fryer comes in. It’s not just for crispy fries or reheating leftovers—it’s a kitchen multitasker that’s quietly revolutionizing how we cook, especially when time is short. And if you’ve ever stared at a can of biscuits and thought, “Can I cook canned biscuits in the air fryer?”—you’re not alone. It’s one of those questions that pops up in every busy kitchen, and the answer might just change your breakfast game.

As someone who’s juggled work, family, and a never-ending to-do list, I’ve turned to the air fryer more times than I can count. It heats up faster than the oven, uses less energy, and—best of all—gives food that golden, crispy finish without the greasy mess. But can it handle something as simple (and beloved) as canned biscuits? After testing, tasting, and a few minor kitchen disasters (we’ve all been there), I’ve got the lowdown on how to turn those store-bought dough rings into flaky, golden perfection—right in your air fryer.

Understanding How the Air Fryer Works with Baked Goods

How Air Fryers Use Convection for Crispy Results

At its core, an air fryer is a mini convection oven. It uses a powerful fan to circulate hot air around your food, creating that crispy exterior we all crave—without submerging it in oil. This rapid circulation is key, especially when cooking items like canned biscuits that rely on even browning and consistent heat. Unlike traditional ovens, which can take 10–15 minutes to preheat, most air fryers are ready in 2–3 minutes, making them ideal for quick meals or last-minute snacks.

But here’s the catch: convection cooking works best when there’s space between items. If you pack your biscuits too tightly, steam builds up, leading to soggy bottoms or uneven browning. Think of it like baking cookies on a crowded tray—only the ones on the edges get crispy. The same principle applies here.

Why Canned Biscuits Are a Great Fit (With a Few Tweaks)

Canned biscuits are designed for oven baking, but their dough is surprisingly adaptable to air frying. The key is managing temperature and timing. Most canned biscuits recommend baking at 350°F–425°F in a conventional oven. In an air fryer, you’ll typically use a slightly lower temperature (325°F–360°F) to prevent over-browning on the outside while ensuring the center cooks through.

One of the biggest advantages? No preheating (in most models). This cuts your total cooking time by up to 30%. For example, a can of Pillsbury Grands! biscuits usually takes 10–12 minutes in the oven. In an air fryer? You’re looking at 8–10 minutes. Plus, the air fryer’s compact size means heat circulates more efficiently, so you get consistent results even in smaller batches.

Pro tip: If you’re new to air frying, start with one or two biscuits to test your model’s heat distribution. Some air fryers run hotter on one side—rotating the basket halfway through can help.

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

Preparing Your Biscuits and Air Fryer

Before you pop open that can (and brace yourself for the iconic “pop” sound), here’s what to do:

• Prep the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or brush with a thin layer of oil (e.g., olive or avocado). This prevents sticking without adding extra calories.
• Separate the biscuits: Open the can and carefully separate each biscuit. If they’re stuck together, gently twist them apart to avoid tearing the dough.
• Space them out: Place biscuits in the basket with at least 1 inch of space between each. Overcrowding = steam buildup = soggy biscuits. For a 5.3-quart air fryer, 4–5 biscuits fit comfortably.

One mistake I made early on? Forgetting to pre-grease the basket. Let’s just say my first batch had a few “sticky” moments. A little oil or spray saves a lot of cleanup later.

Temperature, Time, and Monitoring

Here’s the golden rule: 325°F for 8–10 minutes is your starting point. But every air fryer is different, so use this as a guide:

1. Set your air fryer to 325°F.
2. Arrange biscuits in the basket (don’t stack them).
3. Cook for 8 minutes. After 4 minutes, pause and flip the biscuits using silicone-tipped tongs or a fork. This ensures even browning.
4. Resume cooking for another 3–4 minutes, checking at the 8-minute mark. They’re done when the tops are golden brown and the centers are firm when tapped.

Real talk: My first batch at 350°F burned in 7 minutes. Lower temps prevent this—trust me. If you’re using a smaller air fryer (3.5 quarts or less), reduce time by 1–2 minutes.

Pro Tips for Fluffier, Crispier Results

• Brush with butter: After flipping, brush the tops with melted butter. This adds flavor and enhances browning.
• Add toppings: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, grated cheese, or everything bagel seasoning before the final 2 minutes of cooking.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean (with no wet dough), they’re ready.
• Let them rest: Allow biscuits to cool for 1–2 minutes in the basket. This lets them set and prevents crumbling when you transfer them.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

We’ve all been tempted to squeeze in one more biscuit—but don’t. Overcrowding traps steam, which softens the crust and leads to uneven cooking. I learned this the hard way when I tried to cook 6 biscuits in my 5.3-quart basket. The outer ones were golden, but the center ones were doughy. Now I stick to 4–5 max, no exceptions.

Solution: Cook in batches if needed. Most air fryers reheat quickly, so a second batch takes only 1–2 minutes longer to preheat.

Incorrect Temperature Settings

Air fryers vary widely in heat output. Some models run hotter on the bottom or sides, while others have hot spots. Using the oven-recommended temp (e.g., 400°F) can lead to burnt exteriors and raw interiors.

Solution: Start low and slow. Begin at 325°F and increase by 25°F increments if needed. Use an infrared thermometer (under $15 on Amazon) to check your air fryer’s actual internal temperature.

Skipping the Flip

Many air fryer baskets have a mesh or perforated bottom, which means heat circulates from all sides—but not equally. The top often browns faster than the bottom.

Solution: Flip halfway through. This isn’t always necessary for thin items (like fries), but for thicker dough like biscuits, it’s essential. I use a pair of silicone-tipped tongs to avoid scratching the basket.

Not Adjusting for Altitude or Humidity

Living at high altitude? Humid climate? Both can affect dough texture. Higher altitudes require lower temps (to prevent over-browning), while humidity can make dough stickier.

Solution: In humid environments, pat biscuits lightly with a paper towel before cooking. At high altitudes, reduce temp by 25°F and add 1–2 minutes to cooking time.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Air-Fried Biscuits

Flavor Twists and Toppings

Why stop at plain biscuits? Here are easy ways to level up:

• Savory: Brush with garlic butter and top with shredded cheese. Add crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Sweet: Dust with cinnamon sugar, drizzle with honey, or add mini chocolate chips. For a “biscuit s’mores,” sandwich a biscuit with marshmallow fluff and graham cracker crumbs.
• Breakfast: Split open and fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage. Or make a “biscuit BLT” with avocado, tomato, and mayo.

I once made a batch with everything bagel seasoning and served them with cream cheese and lox. Total hit at my brunch party—and they took less than 10 minutes to prep.

Gluten-Free or Healthier Options

Not all canned biscuits are created equal. For gluten-free diets, try brands like Glutino or Bob’s Red Mill. They cook similarly but may need 1–2 extra minutes due to denser dough.

Want a lighter option? Use low-fat or whole wheat canned biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury Reduced Fat Grands!). They crisp up beautifully but can dry out faster—so keep an eye on them.

Bonus: Brush with olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat. You’ll still get that golden crust without the saturated fat.

Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Times and Temperatures (Data Table)

Here’s a quick-reference guide for popular canned biscuit brands and air fryer models. Times are based on a 5.3-quart basket with 4 biscuits spaced evenly:

Biscuit Type	Air Fryer Temp	Cook Time (Total)	Flip Time	Notes
Pillsbury Grands!	325°F	8–10 min	4 min	Brush with butter after flip
Kroger Jumbo Buttermilk	325°F	9–11 min	4.5 min	Denser dough; check center with toothpick
Glutino Gluten-Free	325°F	10–12 min	5 min	May brown faster; monitor closely
Pillsbury Reduced Fat	325°F	7–9 min	3.5 min	Lower fat = drier; add butter or oil
Store-Brand Buttermilk	325°F	8–10 min	4 min	Results vary by brand; adjust as needed

Note: For air fryers under 3.5 quarts, reduce cook time by 1–2 minutes. For models over 6 quarts, add 1 minute (better heat circulation).

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And You Should!

So, can I cook canned biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely. Not only is it possible, but it’s often better than the oven. You get faster cooking, crispier edges, and a hands-off approach that fits perfectly into a busy schedule. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for a potluck, or just craving a warm, buttery biscuit with your coffee, the air fryer delivers—with minimal mess and maximum flavor.

The key takeaways? Don’t overcrowd, start low and slow, and flip halfway through. And don’t be afraid to experiment! Add toppings, try different brands, or even stuff them with your favorite fillings. The air fryer’s versatility means you’re not just cooking biscuits—you’re unlocking a whole new way to approach quick, satisfying meals.

Next time you’re staring at that can of biscuits, grab your air fryer instead of the oven. You’ll save time, energy, and maybe even impress yourself with how easy it is. After all, the best kitchen hacks are the ones that make life simpler—and tastier. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook canned biscuits in the air fryer! This method yields golden, flaky results in less time than a conventional oven, making it a convenient option for quick breakfasts or snacks.

How long do canned biscuits take in the air fryer?

Canned biscuits typically cook in the air fryer in 6–9 minutes at 320°F (160°C). Exact time depends on your air fryer model and biscuit size, so check for golden tops and a fully cooked interior.

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

Yes, most canned biscuit instructions recommend lowering the temperature by 25°F from oven settings. Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for optimal results, as the compact space circulates heat more efficiently.

Can I cook canned biscuits in the air fryer without overlapping?

For best results, arrange canned biscuits in a single layer with space between them to allow proper air circulation. Overlapping may cause uneven cooking or soggy spots—work in batches if needed.

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

Preheating for 2–3 minutes ensures even cooking, but it’s not mandatory. If skipping preheat, add 1–2 minutes to your total cook time and monitor the biscuits closely.

What’s the best way to prevent canned biscuits from burning in the air fryer?

Use the recommended temperature (320°F) and flip biscuits halfway through cooking. Spraying the air fryer basket with oil and avoiding overcrowding also helps prevent burnt edges.