Can I Make Biscuits in the Air Fryer Easy Delicious Results

Yes, you can make biscuits in the air fryer for a quick, crispy, and delicious result! The air fryer bakes biscuits evenly in less time than a conventional oven, giving them a golden crust and fluffy interior with minimal effort. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute snacks, air-fried biscuits are a game-changer for easy homemade baking.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can! Air fryer biscuits cook faster than ovens with crispy results.
• Preheat for perfection: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even baking.
• Space matters: Leave room between biscuits for optimal air circulation and rise.
• Adjust timing: Reduce baking time by 2–4 minutes vs. conventional oven methods.
• Brush with butter: Add shine and flavor by basting halfway through cooking.
• Try frozen biscuits: Cook straight from freezer—just add 1–2 minutes to cook time.

Can I Make Biscuits in the Air Fryer? Easy Delicious Results

Imagine biting into a golden, flaky, buttery biscuit fresh from your kitchen—crisp on the outside, tender on the inside—without the hassle of preheating your oven or waiting for it to reach the right temperature. If you own an air fryer, this dream is not only possible but surprisingly easy to achieve. Biscuits, a beloved staple of Southern comfort food and weekend breakfast tables, are no longer reserved for traditional ovens. With the rise of air fryer cooking, home bakers and busy families are discovering that making biscuits in the air fryer delivers faster, more consistent, and often more delicious results than conventional methods.

The air fryer, once seen as a tool for reheating leftovers or making crispy chicken wings, has evolved into a versatile kitchen workhorse. Its rapid hot air circulation mimics deep frying without the oil, and its compact size allows for precise temperature control and even browning. But can you really make fluffy, buttery biscuits in such a small appliance? The answer is a resounding yes. Whether you’re using store-bought biscuit dough or whipping up a scratch recipe, the air fryer can produce biscuits that rival those baked in a full-sized oven—often in half the time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about can I make biscuits in the air fryer, from choosing the right dough to troubleshooting common issues and unlocking pro-level tips for perfect results every time.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Biscuit Baking

When it comes to baking biscuits, the key to success lies in even heat distribution, moisture retention, and a crisp exterior with a soft interior. Traditional ovens can sometimes fall short—especially in smaller kitchens or during summer months when running the oven heats up the entire house. The air fryer, on the other hand, offers a compact, energy-efficient, and highly effective alternative. But what makes it so ideal for biscuits?

Rapid, Even Heating for Consistent Results

Air fryers use a powerful convection fan to circulate hot air around food at high speed. This ensures that biscuits cook evenly from all sides, eliminating the risk of undercooked centers or burnt edges. Unlike ovens, which can have hot spots, air fryers provide uniform heat, which is crucial for delicate baked goods like biscuits. The result? Golden-brown crusts and fluffy interiors every time.

• Tip: Preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding biscuits to mimic oven preheating and ensure consistent rise.
• Pro Insight: The compact cooking chamber reduces heat loss, so your biscuits spend less time in the appliance and more time developing flavor.

Faster Cooking Times and Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is speed. While a traditional oven may take 10–15 minutes to preheat and 15–20 minutes to bake biscuits (totaling 25–35 minutes), an air fryer typically preheats in 3–5 minutes and cooks biscuits in 8–12 minutes. That’s a time savings of up to 60%. Plus, air fryers use less electricity than full-sized ovens, making them a greener choice for eco-conscious bakers.

For example, a batch of 6 buttermilk biscuits in a conventional oven might use 1.2 kWh of energy. In an air fryer, the same batch uses approximately 0.6 kWh—cutting energy consumption in half without sacrificing quality.

No Oven, No Problem: Ideal for Small Kitchens and Campers

If you live in a tiny apartment, travel in an RV, or are camping off-grid, the air fryer is a game-changer. You can enjoy fresh, warm biscuits without needing a full kitchen setup. Many portable air fryers run on 120V power and are compact enough to fit on a countertop or picnic table. This makes making biscuits in the air fryer not just convenient, but revolutionary for non-traditional cooking spaces.

Choosing the Right Biscuit Dough for Air Frying

Not all biscuit doughs are created equal—and not all behave the same in an air fryer. The type of dough you use will significantly impact texture, rise, and flavor. Whether you’re a fan of homemade recipes or prefer the convenience of store-bought, here’s what you need to know.

Store-Bought Biscuit Dough: The Quick and Reliable Option

Brands like Pillsbury, Annie’s, and Immaculate Baking Company offer ready-to-bake biscuit dough that works exceptionally well in air fryers. These doughs are formulated to rise quickly and maintain structure under high heat. Most come in cans or resealable pouches, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute breakfasts.

• Best for: Busy families, beginners, and those who want consistent results with minimal effort.
• Recommended Brands: Pillsbury Grands! Buttermilk Biscuits, Immaculate Organic Buttermilk Biscuits.
• Tip: Separate the biscuits gently to avoid deflating the dough, which can lead to uneven rise.

Homemade Scratch Biscuits: Flavor and Control

For those who love the taste of homemade, scratch-made biscuits are unbeatable. A classic buttermilk biscuit recipe typically includes flour, butter, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk. The key to success in the air fryer is using a dough that’s not too wet—excess moisture can cause biscuits to stick or steam instead of crisp up.

• Pro Tip: Use cold butter and handle the dough as little as possible to keep it flaky.
• Recommended Recipe: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed), 3/4 cup cold buttermilk. Mix until just combined, then cut into 6–8 portions.
• Air Fryer Adjustment: Reduce buttermilk by 1–2 tbsp to prevent sogginess in the confined air fryer basket.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options: Inclusive Baking

The air fryer is surprisingly adaptable to dietary restrictions. Gluten-free biscuit mixes (like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill) work well when baked at 325°F for 10–12 minutes. For vegans, substitute butter with vegan sticks (e.g., Earth Balance) and use plant-based milk with a tablespoon of vinegar to mimic buttermilk.

Note: Vegan and gluten-free biscuits may be more fragile. Use parchment paper liners or silicone molds to prevent sticking and breakage during handling.

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

Now that you’ve chosen your dough, it’s time to bake. Follow this detailed, foolproof method to achieve perfect air fryer biscuits every time. Whether you’re using canned dough or a homemade recipe, these steps will ensure golden, fluffy results.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes. This mimics oven preheating and ensures the first batch starts cooking immediately upon insertion. Skipping preheat can lead to uneven cooking, especially with delicate doughs.

Pro Tip: Use the “air fry” or “bake” function if your model has multiple settings. Avoid “roast” or “dehydrate” modes, which may not provide the right temperature profile.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits

• For canned dough: Open the can and separate the biscuits gently. Do not roll or flatten—this deflates the air pockets that create flakiness.
• For scratch dough: Cut the dough into 6–8 equal portions using a biscuit cutter or knife. Place on a floured surface and lightly dust the tops.
• Optional: Brush the tops with melted butter or buttermilk for extra shine and flavor.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a silicone liner to prevent sticking. Place biscuits in a single layer, leaving at least 1/2 inch between each to allow for expansion. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of crisping.

• Capacity: Most 5–6 quart air fryers can fit 4–6 standard biscuits. Larger models (7+ quarts) may hold up to 8.
• Tip: If making a second batch, let the basket cool for 2–3 minutes before adding new dough to prevent premature rising.

Step 4: Bake and Monitor

Cook at 350°F for 8–12 minutes, depending on size and dough type. Check at 8 minutes—biscuits are done when golden brown on top and firm to the touch. Use tongs to gently lift one and check the bottom; it should be lightly browned, not pale or doughy.

• Time Guide:
  • Small biscuits (2-inch): 8–9 minutes
  • Medium biscuits (3-inch): 10–11 minutes
  • Large biscuits (4-inch): 12–13 minutes
• Pro Tip: Rotate the basket halfway through if your air fryer has uneven heating (common in older models).

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove biscuits from the basket immediately to prevent condensation from softening the crust. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm with butter, jam, gravy, or as a sandwich base.

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Issues

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here’s how to diagnose and fix the most common problems when making biscuits in the air fryer.

Biscuits Are Too Dense or Don’t Rise

Causes: Overmixing the dough, expired baking powder, or overcrowding the basket.

• Solution: Mix scratch dough only until ingredients come together. Use fresh baking powder (check expiration date). Leave space between biscuits.
• Pro Tip: Add a pinch of cream of tartar (1/4 tsp per cup of flour) to boost leavening power in humid climates.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

Causes: No liner, wet dough, or high sugar content (in sweet biscuits).

• Solution: Always use parchment paper or a silicone mat. If using homemade dough, chill for 10 minutes before baking to reduce stickiness.
• Alternative: Lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray (use sparingly to avoid smoke).

Uneven Browning or Cooking

Causes: Poor air circulation or hot spots in the fryer.

• Solution: Rotate the basket halfway through cooking. Use the middle rack position if your model has multiple levels.
• Pro Tip: Flip large or dense biscuits halfway through for even browning (only if they’re sturdy enough).

Biscuits Are Too Dry or Crumbly

Causes: Overbaking, low-fat dough, or insufficient moisture.

• Solution: Set a timer and check early. Use full-fat buttermilk and butter. Brush tops with butter immediately after baking to add moisture.

Creative Variations and Flavor Ideas

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer is perfect for experimenting with flavors, textures, and fillings. Here are some delicious variations to try.

Cheesy Garlic Herb Biscuits

Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tbsp chopped garlic, and 1 tsp dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary) into your scratch dough. Brush with garlic butter after baking for an irresistible aroma.

• Air Fryer Tip: Reduce temperature to 340°F to prevent cheese from burning.

Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits

Roll out scratch dough into a rectangle, spread with softened butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, roll into a log, and slice into 1-inch pieces. Arrange spiral-side up in the air fryer and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar after cooling.

Biscuit Breakfast Sandwiches

Make mini biscuits (1.5-inch diameter) and bake for 7–8 minutes. Slice in half and fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage or bacon. Reheat the sandwich in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to warm the filling without drying out the biscuit.

Gluten-Free Cornbread Biscuits

Combine 1 cup gluten-free flour blend, 1/4 cup cornmeal, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/4 cup oil. Mix, portion, and bake at 325°F for 11–13 minutes. Serve with chili or soup.

Data Table: Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Times & Tips

Biscuit Type	Size (Diameter)	Temperature	Cook Time (Minutes)	Tips
Canned Buttermilk (e.g., Pillsbury)	3-inch	350°F	10–12	Separate gently; no flattening
Scratch Buttermilk	3-inch	350°F	11–13	Use cold butter; don’t overmix
Gluten-Free Mix	2.5-inch	325°F	12–14	Use parchment liner; check for doneness early
Vegan Biscuits	3-inch	350°F	10–12	Brush with plant-based milk for browning
Cheesy Herb (Scratch)	3-inch	340°F	11–13	Reduce temp to prevent cheese burn
Mini Biscuit Sandwiches	1.5-inch	350°F	7–8	Ideal for breakfast or snacks

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Make Biscuits in the Air Fryer—And They’re Delicious

So, can you make biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely—and the results are not just good, they’re often better than traditional oven-baked versions. With faster cooking times, even browning, and the ability to bake small batches without heating up your kitchen, the air fryer is a revolutionary tool for biscuit lovers. Whether you’re using store-bought dough for a quick dinner side or crafting homemade, flaky masterpieces from scratch, the air fryer delivers easy, delicious results every time.

From troubleshooting sticky baskets to exploring creative flavor combinations, this guide equips you with everything needed to master making biscuits in the air fryer. The compact size, energy efficiency, and versatility make it ideal for busy families, small kitchens, and adventurous bakers alike. So dust off your air fryer, grab your favorite biscuit recipe, and get ready to enjoy golden, buttery perfection—no oven required. With just a few minutes and a little know-how, you’ll wonder how you ever baked biscuits any other way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, you can make biscuits in the air fryer for a quick, golden, and flaky result. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even baking without drying them out.

What’s the best way to cook store-bought biscuits in the air fryer?

Arrange the biscuits in a single layer with space between each, and air fry at 320°F for 8-10 minutes. Flip halfway for evenly browned tops and bottoms.

Can I make homemade biscuits in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Shape your dough, place it in the air fryer basket (lined with parchment if needed), and cook at 330°F for 10-12 minutes. They’ll turn out tender inside with a crisp exterior.

Do air fryer biscuits cook faster than oven-baked ones?

Yes, air fryer biscuits typically take 2-4 minutes less than oven baking due to the concentrated hot air. Always check for a golden top and hollow sound when tapped.

Can I make gluten-free biscuits in the air fryer?

Of course—just use your favorite gluten-free biscuit dough. Follow the same air fryer time and temperature guidelines, but add 1-2 minutes if needed for thorough cooking.

How do I prevent biscuits from drying out in the air fryer?

Don’t overcook them—set a timer and check early. Lightly brushing with butter or milk before air frying also helps keep biscuits moist and flavorful.