Can I Cook Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer Fast Easy Guide

Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer for a quick, crispy, and mess-free result—no thawing required. Simply preheat the air fryer to 320°F, place biscuits in a single layer, and cook for 8–12 minutes until golden brown and fully heated through. This method saves time and delivers perfectly flaky biscuits every time.

Key Takeaways

• Cook frozen biscuits directly—no thawing needed for quick results.
• Preheat air fryer to ensure even, golden browning every time.
• Arrange in single layer with space to expand while cooking.
• Cook 8–12 minutes at 320°F–350°F, flipping halfway through.
• Check doneness early to avoid overcooking; adjust time as needed.
• Spray with oil for crispier crust without drying out.

Can I Cook Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer? A Fast and Easy Guide

Let me take you back to a Sunday morning a few months ago. I had just woken up to the smell of coffee brewing and realized I’d promised my kids homemade biscuits. The only problem? I hadn’t thawed any. Panic set in—until I remembered my air fryer sitting proudly on the counter, unused for weeks. Could I cook frozen biscuits in it? I had no idea, but I was willing to try. After a quick search and some trial and error, I discovered not only that it was possible, but it was also *fast*, *easy*, and—dare I say—*better* than the oven. The biscuits came out golden, fluffy, and ready in under 15 minutes. No preheating, no soggy bottoms, just pure breakfast joy.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation—running low on time, low on thawed dough, or just craving a warm, flaky biscuit without the oven hassle—you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking frozen biscuits in your air fryer. From timing and temperature tips to troubleshooting common mistakes, I’ll share what I’ve learned (the hard way) so you can skip the guesswork. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves convenience without sacrificing taste, this method might just become your new go-to. So, can you cook frozen biscuits in air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes—and here’s how to do it right.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Frozen Biscuits

When I first considered using my air fryer for frozen biscuits, I wasn’t sure it would work. I’d used it for fries, chicken wings, and even reheating pizza, but biscuits? That felt like uncharted territory. But after trying it, I quickly realized the air fryer has some serious advantages over traditional methods—especially when it comes to frozen dough.

Even Cooking Without Soggy Bottoms

One of the biggest frustrations with oven-baked frozen biscuits is that the bottoms often turn soggy or undercooked. The air fryer solves this with its rapid air circulation, which evenly heats the biscuit from all sides. The hot air flows around each biscuit, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. No more flipping halfway through or using a wire rack to save the base. The air fryer does the work for you.

Faster Than the Oven (No Preheating Needed)

Let’s be honest: preheating an oven takes forever when you’re hungry. With the air fryer, you can go from frozen to golden in under 15 minutes. Most frozen biscuits cook in 10–12 minutes, and since the air fryer heats up almost instantly, you’re saving at least 10–15 minutes compared to a conventional oven. That’s time you can spend making coffee, setting the table, or—let’s be real—checking your phone.

Energy Efficiency and Kitchen Comfort

If you’re trying to save on energy or avoid heating up your kitchen in the summer, the air fryer is a game-changer. It uses far less electricity than an oven and doesn’t radiate heat across your whole kitchen. Plus, cleanup is a breeze. Just wipe the basket with a damp cloth, and you’re done. No greasy baking sheets or oven spills to scrub.

Pro Tip: If your air fryer has a non-stick coating, avoid using metal utensils or abrasive sponges. A soft silicone spatula or wooden spoon works best to preserve the basket.

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

Now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Cooking frozen biscuits in the air fryer is simple, but a few small tweaks can make the difference between “good” and “amazing.” Here’s my tried-and-true method, broken down into easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare Your Air Fryer Basket

Start by lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper (cut to fit) or lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. Parchment paper is my personal favorite because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. If you don’t have parchment, a light oil spray works—just don’t overdo it, or the biscuits may become greasy.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Place the frozen biscuits in the basket, making sure they’re not touching. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and steam buildup, which can make the biscuits soggy. Most air fryers can fit 3–4 standard-sized frozen biscuits at a time. If you’re cooking more, do it in batches. I usually space them about 1 inch apart to allow for expansion and air circulation.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is ideal—it’s hot enough to cook the biscuits thoroughly without burning the outside. Cooking time is usually 10–12 minutes, but this can vary depending on the brand and size of the biscuits. Start with 10 minutes, then check for doneness.

Step 4: Check and Flip (Optional)

After 6–7 minutes, pause the air fryer and open the basket. If the biscuits are browning too quickly on top, you can gently flip them with tongs or a silicone spatula. This isn’t always necessary, but it helps achieve even browning, especially if your air fryer has a top-down heating element.

Step 5: Test for Doneness

At the 10-minute mark, insert a toothpick into the center of a biscuit. If it comes out clean (no wet dough), they’re done. Alternatively, gently press the side—it should feel firm but springy. If the center still feels doughy, add 1–2 more minutes. Remember: it’s better to undercook slightly than overcook, as the biscuits will continue to firm up as they cool.

Real Talk: I once left mine in for 14 minutes and ended up with a charred top and a dry middle. Lesson learned: set a timer and check early!

Best Frozen Biscuit Brands for Air Frying

Not all frozen biscuits are created equal. Some puff up beautifully in the air fryer, while others can turn out dense or greasy. After testing several brands, I’ve found a few that consistently deliver great results. Here’s my quick rundown of the best options—and a few to approach with caution.

Top Picks (Consistent Winners)

• Pillsbury Grands! Flaky Layers: These are my go-to. They rise well, have a buttery flavor, and cook evenly in the air fryer. The flaky layers come out perfectly crisp on the outside and soft inside.
• Great Value (Walmart Brand) Buttermilk Biscuits: Surprisingly good for the price. They puff up nicely and have a classic buttermilk tang. A budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality.
• Trader Joe’s Frozen Buttermilk Biscuits: These are smaller and denser, but they develop a wonderful golden crust in the air fryer. Perfect for a quick snack or side.

Brands to Be Cautious With

• Store-Brand “Value” Packs: Some ultra-cheap brands use lower-quality dough and excessive oil. They may cook unevenly or turn out greasy. If the ingredients list is long with unpronounceable words, it’s probably not ideal.
• Extra-Large or “Jumbo” Biscuits: These take longer to cook and may dry out in the air fryer. If you use them, lower the temperature to 310°F and extend the time to 14–15 minutes, checking frequently.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Yes, even gluten-free and vegan biscuits can work in the air fryer! Brands like Gluten-Free Pillsbury and Sweet Loren’s Vegan Biscuits cook surprisingly well. Just note that they may be more delicate, so handle them gently when flipping. I recommend using parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Tip: Always check the packaging for any specific cooking instructions. Some brands may recommend a slightly different temperature or time for air frying.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my air fryer journey—burnt tops, undercooked centers, you name it. But each one taught me something valuable. Here are the most common pitfalls when cooking frozen biscuits in the air fryer, and how to avoid them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When biscuits touch each other, steam gets trapped, and they cook unevenly. You’ll end up with one biscuit that’s perfect and another that’s raw in the middle. Always leave space. If you have to cook in batches, do it. The extra 5 minutes is worth it for perfectly cooked biscuits.

Ignoring Air Fryer Model Differences

Not all air fryers are the same. A Ninja Foodi might cook faster than a Cosori, and a basket-style unit might brown differently than an oven-style one. Always start with the recommended temperature and time, but be ready to adjust. If your biscuits are browning too fast, lower the temp by 10–15°F. If they’re cooking too slowly, increase it slightly.

Not Using Parchment or Spray

Even if your air fryer claims to be “non-stick,” frozen dough can still stick—especially when it starts to thaw. I learned this the hard way when I pulled out a biscuit and left half of it glued to the basket. Now, I always use parchment paper or a light spray. It’s a small step that saves a lot of frustration.

Skipping the Flip (When Needed)

Some air fryers heat more from the top. If you notice the tops browning quickly but the bottoms are pale, a quick flip halfway through helps. But don’t overdo it—flipping too often can deflate the biscuits. I flip only if needed, and I use soft silicone tongs to avoid tearing the dough.

Overcooking

Biscuits continue to cook slightly after you remove them from the air fryer. If you take them out when they’re perfectly golden, they might be dry by the time you serve them. I recommend pulling them at 90% done—slightly underbrowned—and letting residual heat finish the job. This keeps them tender and moist.

Creative Ways to Serve Air-Fried Frozen Biscuits

Okay, so your biscuits are perfectly cooked. Now what? Sure, you could just slather them with butter and jam and call it a day—and that’s a solid choice. But the air fryer opens up so many fun possibilities. Here are a few ways to elevate your frozen biscuits from “good” to “unforgettable.”

Breakfast Sandwiches in Minutes

Split a warm biscuit, add a cooked egg (air-fried, of course), a slice of cheese, and a piece of crispy bacon. Boom—breakfast sandwich in under 10 minutes. I like to toast the inside of the biscuit for an extra 1–2 minutes after splitting it. It gives it a nice crunch without drying it out.

Mini Biscuit Pizzas

Top halved biscuits with pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni. Return them to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts. My kids love these as after-school snacks. You can also make mini veggie pizzas with bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives.

Biscuit French Toast

Cut a biscuit in half, dip it in a mixture of egg, milk, and cinnamon, then air fry for 4–5 minutes at 350°F. Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries. It’s a fun twist on a classic, and the biscuit’s flaky layers make it extra decadent.

Sweet Treats: Biscuit Donuts

Cut a hole in the center of a biscuit (use a small lid or bottle cap), then air fry. While warm, roll in cinnamon sugar or dip in melted chocolate. For a “glazed” effect, drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze. These are a hit at birthday parties or weekend brunches.

Side for Soups and Stews

Warm biscuits make the perfect companion to chili, beef stew, or creamy tomato soup. I like to brush the tops with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder or rosemary before air frying for a savory twist.

Biscuit Use	Prep Tip	Cooking Time (Extra)
Breakfast Sandwich	Toast split biscuit 1–2 min	+1–2 min
Mini Pizza	Top after initial bake	+2–3 min
French Toast	Dip in egg mix first	+4–5 min at 350°F
Donut	Cut hole, roll in sugar	None (same time)
Savory Side	Brush with butter & herbs	None (same time)

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you cook frozen biscuits in air fryer? Absolutely. And not just “can”—you should, especially if you value speed, simplicity, and delicious results. The air fryer transforms frozen biscuits into golden, flaky, restaurant-quality treats with minimal effort. It’s faster than the oven, more energy-efficient, and easier to clean. Plus, it opens the door to creative recipes you might not have tried otherwise.

Of course, it’s not perfect. You’ll need to adjust for your specific air fryer model, avoid overcrowding, and keep an eye on browning. But once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. I now keep a pack of frozen biscuits in my freezer at all times—just in case of a biscuit emergency (which, let’s be honest, happens more often than I’d like to admit).

Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting brunch, or just treating yourself, cooking frozen biscuits in the air fryer is a skill worth mastering. It’s fast, easy, and surprisingly satisfying. And who knows? You might just discover your new favorite breakfast hack. So go ahead—toss those frozen biscuits in the air fryer. Your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient method that delivers golden, flaky results without thawing.

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

Cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown. Time may vary slightly depending on biscuit size and brand.

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

Preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier texture. While not mandatory, it’s recommended for best results when cooking frozen biscuits in air fryer.

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

Yes, most store-bought frozen biscuits (like Pillsbury or Great Value) work perfectly in the air fryer. Just follow the package instructions and adjust air fryer cook time accordingly.

How many frozen biscuits can I cook in the air fryer at once?

Arrange biscuits in a single layer with space between them—typically 4–6 depending on basket size. Overcrowding prevents even air circulation and affects cooking quality.

Do I need to spray oil on frozen biscuits before air frying?

Lightly spraying or brushing biscuits with oil enhances browning and crispness, but it’s optional. The butter in most frozen biscuits helps achieve a golden finish without added oil.