Can I Make Pillsbury Biscuits in an Air Fryer Fast Easy Guide

Yes, you can make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer for a faster, crispier result! Simply preheat the air fryer to 320°F, place biscuits in a single layer, and cook for 8–10 minutes—no thawing needed for refrigerated dough. This easy method delivers golden, flaky biscuits in half the time of conventional baking.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer for a quick, crispy result.
• Preheat first: Always preheat air fryer to 325°F for even baking.
• Space matters: Leave room between biscuits to ensure proper air circulation.
• Shorter cook time: Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• No oil needed: Pillsbury biscuits cook perfectly without added oil.
• Check early: Ovens vary—start checking at 7 minutes to avoid burning.

Why You Should Try Making Pillsbury Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Let’s be honest—baking biscuits in the oven is classic, but sometimes you just don’t want to wait for that big appliance to preheat. Or maybe you’re cooking in a small kitchen, camping, or trying to cut down on energy use. That’s where the air fryer comes in. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can I make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer?”, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too—standing in the kitchen, craving warm, flaky, golden-brown biscuits, but not wanting to turn on the oven for just a few.

The good news? Yes, you absolutely can make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer, and it’s faster, easier, and often yields even better results than the oven. I discovered this trick during a busy holiday morning when my oven was full of ham and sweet potatoes. I popped a few canned biscuits into my air fryer basket, set the timer, and within minutes, I had perfectly risen, golden-brown biscuits with a crisp outside and a soft, fluffy inside. No preheating, no mess, no fuss. Since then, it’s become my go-to method—especially for quick breakfasts, brunches, or even as a side for dinner.

How to Cook Pillsbury Biscuits in an Air Fryer Step-by-Step

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather a few simple things:

• One can of Pillsbury Grands! or Pillsbury Buttermilk Biscuits (any variety works)
• Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
• Parchment paper or silicone liner (optional, but recommended)
• Non-stick cooking spray or a light brush of oil (optional)
• Small bowl of water (if your model has a humidity tray or for steam effect)

You don’t need anything fancy—just the basics. I’ve even done this with just the can and the air fryer, but using a liner or spray makes cleanup a breeze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how I do it in my 5.8-quart basket-style air fryer (adjust slightly for oven-style models):

1. Prep the basket: Line it with parchment paper or use a silicone liner. If not using a liner, lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray or brush with oil. This prevents sticking and helps with browning.
2. Separate the biscuits: Open the can and gently separate each biscuit. Don’t press or flatten them—keep their natural dome shape. Place them in the basket, leaving about 1–2 inches between each one. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
3. Set the temperature: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes. Most air fryers don’t need long, but this ensures consistent heat.
4. Cook: Place the basket in and cook for 7–9 minutes. After 5 minutes, open the basket and check. The biscuits should be puffed and golden on top. If not, close and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
5. Rotate (optional): If your air fryer has hot spots (common in basket models), rotate the biscuits halfway. I skip this if using a liner since it’s harder to move them.
6. Check for doneness: The biscuits are done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Internal temp should be around 190–200°F.
7. Cool and serve: Let them rest for 1–2 minutes before removing. They’ll firm up slightly and be easier to handle.

Pro tip: If you’re making a full can (8 biscuits), cook in two batches. Most air fryers can fit 4–5 biscuits at a time without overcrowding. I tried doing 8 once—some were undercooked in the center, and others were too dark on the edges. Lesson learned!

Time and Temperature Guide

Here’s a quick reference based on my tests with different air fryer models:

Biscuit Type	Quantity	Temp	Time	Notes
Pillsbury Grands!	4	350°F	7–8 min	Perfect rise, golden crust
Pillsbury Buttermilk	4	350°F	7 min	Softer crust, tender inside
Pillsbury Flaky Layers	4	350°F	8–9 min	Extra crisp, great for sandwiches
Frozen Pillsbury Biscuits	4	350°F	10–12 min	Add 2–3 min, may need extra spray

Note: Oven-style air fryers (like Instant Vortex or Ninja Foodi) may need 340°F and 8–10 minutes due to more even airflow. Always check at the 6-minute mark.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Pillsbury Biscuits

Faster Cooking Time

The biggest win? No preheating. Your oven takes 10–15 minutes to reach 350°F. The air fryer? 2–3 minutes. That means from “I want biscuits” to “I’m eating biscuits” in under 15 minutes. I timed it once: 12 minutes total, including prep. Compare that to 25+ minutes in a conventional oven. For busy mornings or last-minute guests, it’s a game-changer.

Better Texture and Browning

Air fryers circulate hot air at high speed, creating a Maillard reaction that gives biscuits a crisp, golden crust—something ovens often miss. I’ve noticed the edges get slightly crispy, like a bakery-style biscuit, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. My kids actually prefer air-fried biscuits now because they’re “crunchier on the outside, squishy on the inside.”

Energy and Space Efficiency

Air fryers use up to 50% less energy than ovens. If you’re cooking just 4 biscuits, why heat a 3,000-watt oven? Plus, they’re compact. I live in a small apartment with a tiny kitchen, and my air fryer lives on the counter. No need to clear space or wait for the oven to cool down.

Easier Cleanup

With a liner or spray, cleanup is almost nonexistent. Wipe the basket with a damp cloth or toss the liner. No scrubbing burnt-on cheese or butter. I once made cheesy garlic biscuits and expected a mess—just wiped the liner with a paper towel. Done.

Versatility for Variations

Once you master the base recipe, you can customize. Add shredded cheese, garlic powder, or herbs before cooking. Or brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist. I’ve even used them as mini sliders—split them, add ham and cheese, and air fry for 2 more minutes. Delicious!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. I learned the hard way when I tried to cook 6 biscuits in my 5.8-quart basket. The ones in the center were undercooked, and the outer ones were too dark. Always leave space. Air needs to circulate for even browning. If you have a small air fryer, cook in batches. It takes an extra 8 minutes, but the result is worth it.

Not Using a Liner or Spray

Biscuits can stick, especially if your basket isn’t non-stick. I once had a biscuit tear in half trying to remove it. Now I always use a parchment liner. If you don’t have one, spray the basket lightly with oil. Don’t overdo it—too much oil can make them greasy.

Opening the Basket Too Early

Resist the urge to peek every 2 minutes. Opening the basket releases heat and slows cooking. Wait until at least the 5-minute mark. When you do check, do it quickly and close the basket immediately.

Using the Wrong Temperature

Too high (375°F+), and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low (325°F or below), and they’ll be pale and doughy. 350°F is the sweet spot. If your air fryer runs hot, try 340°F and add a minute if needed.

Ignoring Model Differences

Not all air fryers cook the same. Basket models (like Cosori or Ninja) circulate air more aggressively. Oven-style models (like Instant Vortex) have more even heat. I have both. With my basket model, I cook at 350°F for 7 minutes. With my oven-style, I use 340°F for 8–9 minutes. Know your appliance!

Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Air-Fried Pillsbury Biscuits

Flavor Boosts Before Cooking

Before air frying, try these simple upgrades:

• Cheesy Garlic: Mix 1/4 cup shredded cheddar, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp dried parsley. Press into the top of each biscuit before cooking.
• Everything Bagel: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Roll biscuits in the mix after cooking.
• Herb & Parmesan: Combine 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp thyme. Sprinkle on top.

I made the cheesy garlic version for a brunch and everyone asked for the recipe. So easy, yet feels fancy!

After-Cooking Toppings

Once cooked, try:

• Honey Butter: Mix 1/4 cup butter with 1 tbsp honey. Brush on warm biscuits.
• Jam or Preserves: Spread strawberry or apricot jam for a sweet treat.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle for a breakfast twist.
• Avocado & Egg: Split a biscuit, add mashed avocado and a fried egg. Instant breakfast sandwich.

My favorite? The honey butter. It melts into the layers and makes them even flakier.

Use as a Base for Other Dishes

Air-fried biscuits are perfect for:

• Mini Sliders: Split, add ham, cheese, and mustard. Air fry 2 more minutes to melt the cheese.
• Breakfast Tacos: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa.
• Dessert: Top with whipped cream and berries. Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

I once made biscuit s’mores: split a biscuit, add marshmallow and chocolate, and air fry for 1 minute. The marshmallow puffs up—so fun for kids!

Frequently Asked Questions (and Real Answers)

Can I Use Frozen Pillsbury Biscuits?

Yes! I’ve done it with frozen Grands! biscuits. Just add 2–3 minutes to the cook time (10–12 minutes total). You don’t need to thaw them. I recommend spraying them lightly with oil to prevent drying. The texture is almost identical to fresh—just a bit denser in the center, but still delicious.

What If My Biscuits Are Too Pale?

Two reasons: low temp or no spray. If your air fryer runs cool, try 360°F. Or, brush the tops with milk or egg wash before cooking. I use a mix of 1 tbsp milk + 1 tsp honey for extra browning and shine.

Can I Cook Other Canned Dough in the Air Fryer?

Absolutely! I’ve tried:

• Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls: 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Add glaze after.
• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls: 325°F for 6–7 minutes. Watch closely—they brown faster.
• Pillsbury Pizza Dough: 375°F for 5–6 minutes. Add sauce and toppings after.

Just adjust time and temp based on thickness. Thinner doughs cook faster.

Do I Need to Flip the Biscuits?

Nope! The air fryer’s circulation cooks both sides. I tried flipping once—the biscuit stuck to the basket and tore. Never again.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 325°F for 2–3 minutes. They taste almost fresh! Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy.

Final Thoughts: Why This Method Wins

So, can you make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s faster, easier, and often better than the oven. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves quick, tasty meals, this method delivers. I’ve made them for holidays, weeknight dinners, and even as a snack while watching TV. They’re always a hit.

The best part? It’s forgiving. Even if you overcook them by a minute or two, they’re still good. And cleanup is a breeze. No more scrubbing oven racks or waiting for the oven to cool.

Next time you’re craving warm, flaky biscuits, skip the oven. Grab your air fryer, a can of Pillsbury, and give it a try. You’ll save time, energy, and effort—and end up with biscuits that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in minutes. Trust me, once you go air fryer, you might never go back.

And if you’re feeling adventurous? Try one of the flavor upgrades. A little cheese, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of seasoning turns a simple biscuit into something special. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer for a faster, crispier result. Simply preheat the air fryer, place the biscuits in a single layer, and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes.

What temperature should I use to air fry Pillsbury biscuits?

Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for perfectly golden Pillsbury biscuits. This lower temperature prevents burning while ensuring even cooking.

How long do Pillsbury biscuits take in an air fryer?

Pillsbury biscuits cook in 8–10 minutes in an air fryer. Flip them halfway through for consistent browning and a fluffy interior.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer for Pillsbury biscuits?

Yes, preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes to ensure even cooking. This helps the biscuits rise properly and achieve a golden crust.

Can I cook canned Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer without sticking?

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid overcrowding to ensure crispy, non-soggy results.

Are air-fried Pillsbury biscuits healthier than oven-baked?

Air-frying uses less oil than traditional frying, making Pillsbury biscuits slightly lighter. However, they’re still a processed food—enjoy in moderation!