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Yes, you can make frozen biscuits in the air fryer for a quick, golden, and flaky result in under 15 minutes—no thawing needed. Simply preheat, arrange in a single layer, and cook at 330°F (165°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute sides with minimal cleanup!
Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can! Air fry frozen biscuits for a quick, crispy result.
- No thawing needed: Cook directly from frozen for convenience.
- Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and golden tops.
- Adjust time/temp: Follow 300-350°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Space them out: Leave room between biscuits to avoid steaming.
- Check early: Ovens vary—monitor to prevent over-browning.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy hot for optimal texture and flavor.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why You Should Consider Making Frozen Biscuits in the Air Fryer
- How the Air Fryer Works for Frozen Biscuits
- Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Frozen Biscuits
- Brand-Specific Tips for Different Frozen Biscuits
- Creative Ways to Elevate Your Air Fryer Biscuits
- Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Problems
- Why Air Fryer Biscuits Beat Oven or Toaster Oven
Why You Should Consider Making Frozen Biscuits in the Air Fryer
Let’s face it: mornings can be chaotic. Between getting the kids ready, brewing coffee, and finding matching socks, the last thing you want is a complicated breakfast. That’s where frozen biscuits come in—they’re a lifesaver. But what if I told you there’s a way to make them even better, faster, and crispier? Enter the air fryer. This kitchen gadget isn’t just for chicken wings or reheating leftovers; it’s a game-changer for frozen biscuits.
I remember the first time I tried making frozen biscuits in the air fryer. I was skeptical. Would they burn? Would they be doughy inside? But after one bite of that golden, flaky perfection, I was hooked. The air fryer cuts cooking time in half, gives you a crispier crust, and keeps the inside soft and buttery—just like homemade. Plus, no preheating, no messy oven, and no waiting for the toaster oven to catch up. It’s like magic, but with science. So, can you make frozen biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely. And here’s how to do it right.
How the Air Fryer Works for Frozen Biscuits
The Science Behind Crispy, Flaky Results
Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food. Think of it like a mini convection oven with a turbo boost. The high-speed fan pushes hot air around the biscuits, cooking them evenly while creating a crispy exterior. Unlike a microwave (which steams and soggy-fies) or a conventional oven (which takes forever), the air fryer strikes the perfect balance: fast, efficient, and delicious.
Here’s why it works so well for frozen biscuits:
- No thawing needed: You can go straight from freezer to air fryer.
- Even browning: The hot air reaches all sides, so no flipping halfway.
- Less oil: Most frozen biscuits already have enough fat, so no extra butter or oil is needed.
Temperature and Time: The Golden Ratio
Every air fryer is slightly different, but here’s the sweet spot for frozen biscuits:
- Temperature: 325°F–350°F (160°C–175°C). Too low and they’ll be doughy; too high and they’ll burn.
- Time: 10–12 minutes for regular biscuits, 12–14 for larger ones. Check them at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Pro tip: If your air fryer has a “frozen” or “bake” setting, use it. Otherwise, stick to manual mode. And don’t overcrowd the basket—leave space between biscuits for air to circulate.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Frozen Biscuits
Prep: Keep It Simple
You don’t need a fancy setup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Frozen biscuits (any brand or style)
- Air fryer
- Tongs or a fork (for handling hot biscuits)
- (Optional) Parchment paper or air fryer liner (to catch crumbs)
No thawing! Seriously, just grab the biscuits straight from the freezer. If they’re stuck together, gently pry them apart with a knife or your fingers.
Cooking Process: From Frozen to Golden
- Preheat (optional): Some air fryers recommend 2–3 minutes of preheating at 350°F. If yours doesn’t, skip this step.
- Arrange biscuits: Place them in a single layer with at least ½ inch of space between each. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of crisp.
- Cook: Set the air fryer to 325°F and cook for 10 minutes. Flip halfway (optional, but helps with even browning).
- Check for doneness: The biscuits should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch. If they’re still pale or soft, add 1–2 more minutes.
- Rest: Let them cool for 1–2 minutes. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Example: I tried Pillsbury Grands! Frozen Biscuits in my Ninja Air Fryer. At 325°F for 11 minutes (flipped at 6), they came out perfect—crispy outside, fluffy inside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding: This is the #1 mistake. Biscuits need airflow to crisp up.
- Too high heat: 375°F might seem like a good idea, but it’ll burn the outside before the inside cooks.
- Opening the basket too often: Every time you peek, heat escapes. Trust the process!
Brand-Specific Tips for Different Frozen Biscuits
Pillsbury Grands! (The Classic Choice)
These are the gold standard for frozen biscuits. They’re thick, buttery, and hold up well in the air fryer. Here’s how to nail them:
- Time: 11–12 minutes at 325°F.
- Tip: Brush with melted butter after cooking for extra richness.
Note: The “Buttermilk” and “Flaky” varieties cook similarly, but the “Homestyle” ones might need an extra minute due to their denser texture.
Other Popular Brands
Not all frozen biscuits are created equal. Here’s how to adjust for different brands:
| Brand | Time (Minutes) | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annie’s Homegrown | 10–11 | 325°F | Organic, but smaller. Cook in batches. |
| Kroger Private Selection | 11–12 | 325°F | Similar to Pillsbury. Flip halfway. |
| Great Value (Walmart) | 10–11 | 325°F | Budget-friendly. Watch for over-browning. |
| Trader Joe’s Buttermilk Biscuits | 12–13 | 325°F | Thicker. Add 1–2 minutes if needed. |
Pro tip: Always check the packaging for oven instructions. Air fryer times are usually 2–3 minutes less than oven times.
Gluten-Free or Vegan Biscuits?
Yes, you can cook those too! Just keep in mind:
- Gluten-free: Often cook faster. Reduce time by 1–2 minutes and watch closely.
- Vegan: May be denser. Add an extra minute if they’re undercooked.
I tried a gluten-free brand once—they were ready in 9 minutes at 325°F. Crispy outside, tender inside. Win!
Creative Ways to Elevate Your Air Fryer Biscuits
Add Flavor Before Cooking
Frozen biscuits are great, but why stop there? Try these upgrades:
- Butter and garlic: Brush with melted garlic butter before cooking.
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan on top at the 8-minute mark.
- Herbs: Dust with dried rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
Example: I made “garlic bread biscuits” for a dinner party. Everyone thought I made them from scratch!
After-Cooking Toppings
Once the biscuits are out, the fun begins:
- Honey butter: Mix 2 tbsp honey with ¼ cup softened butter. Spread on warm biscuits.
- Jelly or jam: Blueberry or strawberry works best.
- Breakfast sandwich style: Split a biscuit and add scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage.
Bonus: Try splitting a biscuit and air-frying the halves for mini “biscuit croutons” on a salad. Genius, right?
Sweet vs. Savory: Mix It Up
Most frozen biscuits are savory, but you can make them sweet:
- Cinnamon sugar: Toss cooked biscuits in a mix of cinnamon and sugar.
- Maple glaze: Drizzle with a mix of powdered sugar and maple syrup.
- Fruit compote: Top with warm apple or peach compote.
My kids love “cinnamon roll biscuits”—they ask for them every weekend.
Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Problems
Problem: Biscuits Are Burnt Outside, Raw Inside
This usually happens when the heat is too high. Here’s how to fix it:
- Lower the temperature: Try 300°F next time.
- Cook in batches: Overcrowding raises the temperature inside the basket.
- Use a liner: Parchment paper can protect the bottom from direct heat.
Real talk: I once set my air fryer to 375°F. The biscuits were charcoal on the outside and gooey inside. Lesson learned.
Problem: Biscuits Are Doughy or Undercooked
Not enough time or too low heat? Try this:
- Add 1–2 minutes: Check every 30 seconds after the timer ends.
- Increase temperature slightly: 350°F might work better for your model.
- Flip halfway: This ensures even cooking.
Note: Some air fryers have “hot spots.” Rotate the basket halfway if yours does.
Problem: Biscuits Stick to the Basket
Annoying, but fixable:
- Use parchment paper: Cut a round to fit the basket.
- Lightly oil the basket: A quick spray with non-stick spray helps.
- Let them cool first: Hot biscuits are more likely to stick.
I use silicone liners—they’re reusable and save cleanup time.
Why Air Fryer Biscuits Beat Oven or Toaster Oven
Let’s compare the options:
- Speed: Air fryer (10–12 minutes) vs. oven (15–20 minutes). No preheating!
- Energy efficiency: Air fryers use less power than ovens.
- Texture: Ovens give a softer crust; air fryers give a crispier, flakier bite.
- Convenience: No need to wait for the oven to heat up. Just press a button.
My toaster oven is now collecting dust. The air fryer wins every time.
Final verdict: Can you make frozen biscuits in the air fryer? Yes—and you should. It’s faster, easier, and tastier than any other method. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves good food, this hack will change your mornings. So grab that bag of frozen biscuits, fire up your air fryer, and get ready for golden, flaky perfection. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make frozen biscuits in the air fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to get golden, flaky results without thawing or using the oven.
How long do you cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer?
Cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer at 330°F (165°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Exact time depends on biscuit size and air fryer model.
Do I need to thaw frozen biscuits before air frying?
No, there’s no need to thaw frozen biscuits before air frying. Cooking them directly from frozen ensures even baking and a crispier texture.
What temperature should I use to cook frozen biscuits in the air fryer?
Set your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for best results. This temperature ensures the biscuits cook through without burning the outside.
Can I cook canned biscuits in the air fryer?
Yes, both canned and frozen biscuits work well in the air fryer. Just adjust cooking time slightly—canned biscuits may cook 1–2 minutes faster than frozen ones.
How do I prevent air fryer frozen biscuits from drying out?
To keep air fryer frozen biscuits moist, lightly brush them with butter or milk before cooking and avoid overcooking. Check them 1–2 minutes before the timer ends.