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

Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer—it’s a fast, convenient method that delivers golden, flaky results in under 15 minutes. Simply preheat the air fryer, arrange biscuits in a single layer, and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning—no thawing required.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer for faster, crispier results.
• No thawing needed: Bake directly from frozen—save time and effort.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and golden-brown finish.
• Adjust time and temp: Use 325°F (160°C) for 8–12 minutes, checking halfway.
• Space them out: Leave room between biscuits for optimal air circulation.
• Flip halfway through: Promotes even browning on both sides.
• Enjoy fresh taste: Air-fried biscuits taste just like oven-baked, with less cleanup.

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

Let’s be honest: mornings are tough. Between hitting the snooze button one too many times and trying to get the kids out the door, the last thing you want is to spend 20 minutes waiting for the oven to preheat just to bake a few biscuits. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered I could cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer—a game-changer for busy mornings and last-minute breakfast cravings.

I remember the first time I tried it. I had a half-frozen pack of store-bought biscuits in the freezer and only 15 minutes before my work meeting. Instead of defaulting to the oven, I tossed a couple into my air fryer, crossed my fingers, and hit “start.” The result? Golden, flaky, and ready in under 12 minutes. No preheating. No mess. Just hot, buttery biscuits with minimal effort. Since then, I’ve experimented with brands, cooking times, and even adding cheese or herbs—and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned so you can do the same.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Frozen Biscuits

Speed and Convenience

One of the biggest perks of using an air fryer for frozen biscuits is how fast it is. Unlike a traditional oven that needs 10–15 minutes to preheat, most air fryers reach cooking temperature in just 3–5 minutes. That means you can go from frozen to flaky in under 15 minutes—ideal for rushed mornings or surprise guests.

Think about it: you pop a few biscuits in, set the timer, and use those extra 10 minutes to make coffee, pack lunches, or actually sit down and breathe. No more juggling oven trays or worrying about overcooking. The air fryer’s compact size and rapid heat circulation make it perfect for small-batch baking.

Energy Efficiency

If you’re trying to cut down on energy use, the air fryer is a smart choice. It uses less electricity than a full-sized oven, especially when you’re only cooking 2–4 biscuits. Over time, this adds up—both in your utility bill and your carbon footprint.

For example, a standard electric oven uses about 2,400 watts per hour, while most air fryers range from 800 to 1,500 watts. Cooking a small batch of biscuits in the air fryer could save you up to 50% in energy, depending on your model and cooking time.

Even Cooking and Crispy Texture

Air fryers use rapid air circulation (convection) to cook food evenly on all sides. This means your frozen biscuits come out golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and without the soggy bottoms you sometimes get in the microwave or oven.

I’ve noticed that biscuits cooked in the air fryer have a slightly crispier exterior—almost like a cross between a biscuit and a scone. If you love that buttery, flaky crust, this method delivers every time. Plus, no need to rotate or flip them halfway through (though I’ll share a tip for even browning later).

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

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer Basket

Start by lightly greasing your air fryer basket with non-stick spray or a thin layer of oil. This prevents sticking, especially with buttery biscuits. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper with holes cut in it (to allow air flow) or an air fryer liner.

Pro tip: If you don’t have parchment, a light spritz of oil works just fine. Avoid heavy oils—they can smoke at high temps and leave a residue.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Place the frozen biscuits in the basket in a single layer, leaving at least 1 inch between each one. Overcrowding blocks airflow, which leads to uneven cooking. If your biscuits are touching, they’ll steam instead of crisp up.

For example, in a 5.8-quart air fryer, I can fit 4–6 regular-sized biscuits comfortably. In a smaller 3-quart model, stick to 2–3. If you’re cooking more, do it in batches—don’t force them in!

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Most frozen biscuits cook best at 325°F to 350°F. I recommend starting at 330°F for 10–12 minutes. Here’s a quick reference:

• Small biscuits (2–3 inches): 10–11 minutes
• Regular biscuits (3–4 inches): 11–12 minutes
• Large or jumbo biscuits: 12–14 minutes

Start checking at the 10-minute mark. The biscuits are done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Flip or Rotate (Optional)

For even browning, I like to flip the biscuits halfway through. This isn’t always necessary, but it helps if your air fryer has a “hot spot” (common in some models). Use silicone-tipped tongs to gently turn them—no need to be rough!

If you don’t flip, just rotate the basket 180 degrees. This ensures both sides get equal exposure to the hot air.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the biscuits cool for 1–2 minutes before removing. They’re delicate when hot and can break apart if you grab them too soon. I like to serve them warm with butter, jam, or even a slice of cheddar for a savory twist.

Best Brands and Types of Frozen Biscuits for Air Frying

Store-Bought Favorites

Not all frozen biscuits are created equal. Some hold up better in the air fryer than others. Here are a few brands I’ve tested and loved:

• Pillsbury Grands! Frozen Biscuits: A classic. They puff up beautifully and get that perfect golden crust. I usually cook them at 330°F for 11 minutes.
• Great Value (Walmart) Frozen Biscuits: Affordable and reliable. Slightly smaller than Pillsbury, so 10 minutes at 330°F works great.
• Trader Joe’s Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky, buttery, and slightly tangy. Cook at 325°F for 12 minutes for a softer center.
• Krusteaz Frozen Buttermilk Biscuits: Great for larger batches. They need a bit more time (12–13 minutes) but taste homemade.

Avoid ultra-thin or “mini” biscuits—they can dry out or burn quickly in the air fryer.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

If you’re avoiding gluten or dairy, there are still great options. I’ve had success with:

• King Arthur Gluten-Free Frozen Biscuits: These need a slightly lower temp (320°F) and longer cook time (13–14 minutes) to prevent drying.
• Simple Mills Almond Flour Biscuits: Dairy-free and grain-free. Cook at 315°F for 12 minutes. They’re more delicate, so handle with care.

Tip: Always check the package instructions first. Some brands recommend adjusting time/temp for alternative cooking methods.

Homemade Frozen Biscuits (Yes, You Can!)

If you make your own biscuits, freeze them before baking. Just place unbaked, cut dough on a tray, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a bag. When ready to cook, pop them straight into the air fryer—no thawing needed!

I do this with my buttermilk biscuit recipe. I freeze them in pairs, so I can cook just what I need. They take 12–13 minutes at 330°F and taste just like fresh-baked.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When biscuits are too close, steam builds up, and they cook unevenly. You might end up with a gooey center or a burnt edge.

Fix: Leave space! If you only have a small air fryer, cook in batches. It’s better to wait 5 extra minutes than to ruin your breakfast.

Skipping the Pre-Check

Frozen biscuits vary in size and thickness. Blindly following a generic time can lead to undercooked or overcooked results.

Fix: Start checking at the 10-minute mark. Use a toothpick or fork to poke the center. If it comes out clean, they’re done. If not, add 1–2 minutes.

Using High Heat

It’s tempting to crank the temp to “speed things up,” but high heat (above 350°F) can burn the outside before the inside is cooked.

Fix: Stick to 325°F–350°F. If you’re in a rush, increase time slightly instead of temperature. A few extra minutes won’t hurt.

Not Letting Them Rest

Hot biscuits are fragile. If you try to remove them immediately, they might fall apart.

Fix: Let them sit in the basket for 1–2 minutes. The residual heat helps them firm up, making them easier to handle.

Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks

Every air fryer cooks a little differently. Some run hot, others take longer to heat up.

Fix: Test one biscuit first. Adjust time/temp for future batches. Keep a note on your fridge or phone for quick reference.

Creative Twists: Beyond Basic Biscuits

Add Cheese or Herbs

Want to jazz things up? Sprinkle shredded cheddar, parmesan, or even feta on top of the biscuits before air frying. For herbs, try dried rosemary, thyme, or everything bagel seasoning.

I love making “biscuit bombs” by stuffing them with cream cheese and chives. Just cut a small hole in the side, add filling, then air fry as usual. They puff up and get extra gooey inside.

Make Mini Sandwiches

Split cooked biscuits and fill them with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a quick breakfast sandwich. I use a small cookie cutter to make them uniform—perfect for meal prep!

Sweet Variations

For a dessert twist, brush the tops with honey or maple syrup before cooking. Or, add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish. Serve with fruit compote or yogurt.

Reheat Leftovers

Got leftover cooked biscuits? Don’t throw them out! Reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes. They’ll be warm and slightly crispy—almost like fresh.

Data: Air Fryer vs. Oven vs. Microwave

Here’s a quick comparison of cooking methods for frozen biscuits, based on my testing:

Method	Time (Including Preheat)	Energy Use (Est.)	Texture	Best For
Air Fryer	10–14 minutes	0.2–0.3 kWh	Crispy outside, flaky inside	Small batches, quick meals
Conventional Oven	20–25 minutes	0.8–1.2 kWh	Even, golden, but softer crust	Large batches, meal prep
Microwave	2–3 minutes	0.1 kWh	Soggy, chewy, inconsistent	Emergency use only

As you can see, the air fryer wins on speed, energy, and texture. The microwave is fast but lacks quality, while the oven is reliable but slow and energy-heavy.

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

So, can you cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely. It’s faster, more efficient, and delivers better results than most other methods. Whether you’re using store-bought favorites or your own homemade dough, the air fryer turns frozen biscuits into golden, flaky perfection in minutes.

I’ve used this method for everything from weekday breakfasts to weekend brunches, and it never disappoints. The key is to start simple—follow the steps, watch for doneness, and adjust based on your air fryer’s quirks. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be experimenting with flavors, fillings, and even reheating leftovers like a pro.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to be a chef. This is foolproof, family-friendly, and fits into even the busiest mornings. So go ahead—grab that pack of frozen biscuits, fire up your air fryer, and treat yourself to a hot, buttery breakfast without the hassle. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer without thawing them first?

Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer directly from frozen—no thawing needed. Preheat the air fryer and add a few extra minutes to the cook time for best results.

What temperature should I use to air fry frozen biscuits?

Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for frozen biscuits. This temperature ensures even cooking without burning the outside while keeping the inside fluffy.

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

Most frozen biscuits take 10–14 minutes in the air fryer at 320°F, depending on size. Flip them halfway through for even browning and optimal texture.

Do I need to adjust cook time if I’m making multiple frozen biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, if you’re cooking more than 2–3 biscuits, add 2–3 minutes to the cook time to account for crowding. Avoid overlapping to maintain airflow and crispness.

Can I cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer with parchment paper?

Yes, using air fryer-safe parchment paper is a great way to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. Just make sure the paper doesn’t block airflow around the biscuits.

Why are my air-fried frozen biscuits burnt on the outside but raw inside?

This usually happens if the temperature is too high or the cook time isn’t adjusted for frozen dough. Lower the heat to 320°F and extend the time slightly for even cooking.