Can I Put Biscuits in the Air Fryer Discover the Perfect Method

Yes, you can put biscuits in the air fryer for a quick, crispy, and evenly cooked treat—just preheat the air fryer to 330°F (165°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. This method delivers golden-brown biscuits with a fluffy interior, all while using less oil and time than traditional baking. Perfect for a hassle-free breakfast or snack!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry biscuits: Achieve crispy outsides and fluffy insides effortlessly.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and perfect texture every time.
• Space them properly: Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air circulation for uniform browning.
• Adjust time and temperature: Start with 320°F for 5-7 minutes; modify as needed.
• Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup after air frying.
• Check doneness early: Prevent overcooking by monitoring biscuits in the final minutes.

Can I Put Biscuits in the Air Fryer? Discover the Perfect Method

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a quick, efficient, and healthier alternative to traditional frying. Their ability to deliver crispy, golden results with minimal oil has made them a staple in modern kitchens. Among the many culinary experiments people are eager to try, one common question stands out: Can I put biscuits in the air fryer? Whether you’re craving flaky canned biscuits, homemade drop biscuits, or even frozen varieties, the air fryer might just be the game-changer you need. The answer is a resounding yes—but with a few key techniques to ensure perfection every time.

Imagine biting into a warm, buttery biscuit with a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior—all achieved in under 10 minutes. The air fryer excels at creating that ideal texture by circulating hot air evenly around the food. However, not all biscuits behave the same way under this intense, rapid heat. Understanding the nuances of timing, temperature, and preparation can make the difference between a golden success and a disappointing, undercooked or burnt mess. In this guide, we’ll explore how to air fry biscuits successfully, from choosing the right type to mastering the ideal settings, troubleshooting common issues, and even elevating your biscuits with creative toppings and pairings.

Why the Air Fryer Is Ideal for Cooking Biscuits

Even Heat Distribution for Consistent Results

One of the standout advantages of using an air fryer for biscuits is its 360-degree convection cooking. Unlike ovens, which can have hot spots, air fryers use a powerful fan to circulate hot air uniformly. This ensures that each biscuit bakes evenly, with a consistent golden-brown crust and a fully cooked interior. Whether you’re making a batch of 4 or 8 biscuits, you won’t have to rotate them halfway through—saving time and effort.

Faster Cooking Than Conventional Ovens

Air fryers preheat in just 2–3 minutes and cook food significantly faster than standard ovens. For biscuits, this means a reduction in cooking time by up to 30–40%. For example, while a conventional oven might take 12–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), an air fryer can achieve the same results in just 7–10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This speed is ideal for busy mornings or last-minute brunch guests.

Healthier and Crispier Texture

Traditional frying requires oil to achieve crispiness, but air fryers use only a fraction of the oil—or none at all. When cooking canned or frozen biscuits, a light spray of cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil spray) is often enough to enhance browning without adding excess fat. The result? A crispy exterior that mimics deep frying, with a soft, airy interior—perfect for breakfast sandwiches, gravy smothers, or standalone treats.

Space-Saving and Energy Efficient

For small kitchens or solo cooks, air fryers are a space-saving alternative to full-sized ovens. They use less energy and generate less heat, making them ideal for summer cooking or apartment living. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.

Choosing the Right Biscuits for Air Frying

Canned Refrigerated Biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury, Annie’s)

Canned biscuits are the most popular choice for air frying due to their convenience and consistent quality. Brands like Pillsbury Grands! or Annie’s Organic Flaky Layers work exceptionally well. These biscuits are pre-rolled, pre-cut, and ready to cook—no prep required. However, their high fat and sugar content means they brown quickly, so monitoring is essential.

• Tip: Separate the biscuits immediately after removing from the can to prevent sticking.
• Best for: Quick breakfasts, mini pizzas, or biscuit sandwiches.

Frozen Biscuits (Store-Bought or Homemade)

Frozen biscuits can be air fried straight from the freezer—no thawing needed. This is ideal for batch prepping. Popular options include Trader Joe’s Frozen Buttermilk Biscuits or homemade dough frozen in individual portions. Air fryers handle frozen dough well, but you’ll need to increase cooking time by 2–4 minutes.

• Tip: Lightly spray frozen biscuits with oil to prevent drying out.
• Best for: Meal prepping, camping, or stocking up during sales.

Homemade Biscuits (Drop or Rolled)

Homemade biscuits offer the most customization. Use your favorite recipe—buttermilk, cheddar-garlic, or vegan—and shape them into 1.5- to 2-inch rounds. For best results, keep the dough slightly thicker (¾ inch) than traditional baking to prevent over-browning.

• Tip: Chill the shaped biscuits for 10 minutes before air frying to help them hold their shape.
• Best for: Gourmet brunches, holiday meals, or experimenting with flavors.

Specialty and Dietary Biscuits

Gluten-free, vegan, or keto biscuits can also be air fried, but they may require adjustments. Gluten-free biscuits often dry out faster, so reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes and use a lower temperature (325°F). Vegan biscuits (e.g., made with plant-based butter) benefit from a light oil spray to enhance browning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Biscuits Perfectly

Prepping Your Air Fryer and Biscuits

Start by preheating the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the first second. Lightly grease the basket with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper (cut to fit) to prevent sticking. For homemade or sticky dough, lightly flour the basket or use silicone liners.

• Do not overcrowd: Leave at least ½ inch of space between biscuits for air circulation.
• Size matters: Cut biscuits to 1.5–2 inches in diameter for even cooking.

Setting the Right Temperature and Time

Temperature and timing vary by biscuit type. Use this quick reference:

Biscuit Type	Temperature	Cooking Time	Notes
Canned (e.g., Pillsbury)	350°F (175°C)	7–9 minutes	Flip halfway for even browning
Frozen (Store-Bought)	350°F (175°C)	9–12 minutes	No thaw needed; spray with oil
Homemade (Drop)	340°F (170°C)	8–10 minutes	Chill dough first; check at 8 min
Gluten-Free	325°F (160°C)	6–8 minutes	Reduce temp to prevent drying
Keto/Low-Carb	340°F (170°C)	7–9 minutes	Spray with oil; monitor closely

Cooking and Monitoring

Place biscuits in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for the recommended time, but check at the 6-minute mark for canned or homemade biscuits. Flip them halfway using tongs or a fork to ensure even browning. For frozen biscuits, no flipping is needed unless they’re browning unevenly.

• Signs they’re done: Golden-brown crust, firm to touch, and internal temperature of 190–200°F (88–93°C).
• Undercooked? Add 1–2 minutes, but reduce temperature by 10°F to prevent burning.

Resting and Serving

Let biscuits rest in the basket for 1–2 minutes after cooking. This allows steam to redistribute, preventing a soggy interior. Transfer to a wire rack or plate to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with butter, jam, honey, or gravy for maximum enjoyment.

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Issues

Biscuits Are Burnt on the Outside, Raw Inside

This is often caused by overcrowding or excessive temperature. Air fryers work best with space between items. If you must cook more than 6–8 biscuits, do it in batches. Reduce the temperature to 340°F (170°C) and increase time by 1–2 minutes. For canned biscuits, avoid cooking more than 4 at once unless your air fryer is large (6+ quarts).

Biscuits Are Dry or Crumbly

Dryness is common with gluten-free, vegan, or overcooked biscuits. To fix:

• Brush with melted butter or milk immediately after cooking.
• Reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes for delicate doughs.
• Use a moisture-sealing spray (e.g., butter spray) before cooking.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

Even non-stick baskets can cause sticking. Prevent this by:

• Using parchment paper or silicone liners.
• Lightly greasing the basket with oil or non-stick spray.
• Letting biscuits cool slightly before removing (1–2 minutes).

Uneven Browning

If one side is darker, your air fryer may have a directional fan. Flip biscuits halfway through cooking. For models with a single heating element, rotate the basket 180 degrees at the halfway point.

Frozen Biscuits Not Cooking Through

Frozen biscuits need more time, but not higher heat. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 9–12 minutes. If the outside browns too fast, cover the basket with aluminum foil for the last 2–3 minutes to slow browning while allowing the inside to cook.

Creative Ways to Elevate Your Air Fryer Biscuits

Flavor-Boosted Toppings

Transform basic biscuits into gourmet treats with these toppings:

• Cheesy Herb: Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan and dried thyme before cooking.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Toss in cinnamon sugar immediately after cooking for a sweet twist.
• Everything Bagel: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before air frying.
• Sweet Glaze: Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze or honey after cooling slightly.

Breakfast and Brunch Innovations

Use air fryer biscuits as the base for:

• Mini Breakfast Sandwiches: Split biscuits, add scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage or bacon.
• Biscuit French Toast: Dip in egg mixture and air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 4 minutes per side.
• Gravy Bombs: Fill with sausage gravy and top with extra gravy for a Southern classic.

Dessert and Snack Ideas

Sweet biscuits shine as:

• Strawberry Shortcake: Split biscuits, add whipped cream and fresh berries.
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Biscuits: Mix chocolate chips into homemade dough before cooking.
• Apple Pie Biscuits: Fill with cinnamon-apple filling and drizzle with caramel.

Meal Prep and Freezing Tips

Air fryer biscuits are perfect for batch cooking. Cook a large batch, cool completely, and freeze in airtight bags. To reheat, air fry frozen biscuits at 340°F (170°C) for 3–4 minutes. They’ll taste as fresh as the day you made them!

Conclusion: Mastering Biscuits in the Air Fryer

So, can you put biscuits in the air fryer? Absolutely—and with the right method, you’ll achieve results that rival traditional baking, with added crispiness and convenience. Whether you’re using canned, frozen, or homemade dough, the air fryer offers unmatched speed, efficiency, and versatility. From golden-brown canned biscuits in 8 minutes to gourmet stuffed creations, the possibilities are endless.

Remember the key principles: preheat your air fryer, space biscuits properly, monitor cooking closely, and adjust for dietary needs. With these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and create biscuits that are crispy outside, fluffy inside, and packed with flavor. Experiment with toppings, pairings, and recipes to make your air fryer biscuits the star of any meal. The air fryer isn’t just for fries and chicken wings—it’s a biscuit powerhouse waiting to be unleashed. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put biscuits in the air fryer without them drying out?

Yes, you can cook biscuits in the air fryer while keeping them moist. Lightly brush them with butter or milk before cooking, and avoid overcooking by checking at the 8-minute mark.

What’s the best way to cook canned biscuits in the air fryer?

For canned biscuits, preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C), place them in a single layer, and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. This method ensures a golden, flaky texture.

Can I use the air fryer for homemade biscuit dough?

Absolutely! Shape your homemade dough into biscuits, then air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes. The circulating heat gives them a perfectly crisp exterior and soft center.

Do I need to adjust cooking time for frozen biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, add 2–4 minutes to the usual time when cooking frozen biscuits in the air fryer. Start at 325°F (163°C) and check for golden tops and a fully cooked center.

How do I prevent biscuits from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray the basket with oil or use parchment paper with holes for airflow. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and easy removal of your air fryer biscuits.

Can I reheat leftover biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, the air fryer is perfect for reheating biscuits. Set it to 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispness without drying them out.