Can You Cook Biscuits in a Air Fryer Discover the Perfect Method

Yes, you can cook biscuits in an air fryer—and they turn out golden, fluffy, and perfectly crisp in less time than a conventional oven. With the right temperature (350°F) and a quick 8–12 minute cook time, air-fried biscuits deliver consistent results, making them a game-changer for fast, delicious breakfasts or snacks.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook biscuits in an air fryer—it’s faster and yields crispy, golden results.
• Preheat the air fryer to 325°F for even baking and consistent texture.
• Space biscuits properly to allow air circulation and prevent uneven cooking.
• Adjust time and temperature based on biscuit size and desired crispness.
• Use parchment liners to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Check doneness early—air fryers vary, so monitor at 8 minutes.

Why the Air Fryer Might Be Your New Biscuit Hero

Let’s be honest: we’ve all stood in front of the oven, waiting for it to preheat, just to bake a small batch of biscuits. It feels like overkill, right? That’s where the air fryer swoops in like a kitchen superhero. I remember the first time I thought, “Can you cook biscuits in a air fryer?” It seemed too good to be true—crispy outsides, soft, flaky insides, and no oven preheating drama. But after a few (okay, maybe five) batches, I can tell you it’s not just possible—it’s better in some ways.

Biscuits are a comfort food staple. Whether you’re making them from scratch, using canned dough, or even repurposing leftovers, the air fryer offers a faster, more energy-efficient way to get golden, fluffy results. And if you’re like me—someone who loves fresh biscuits but hates cranking up the oven on a hot day or wasting energy for a tiny batch—the air fryer feels like a game-changer. But it’s not magic. There’s a method to the madness. So, let’s dive into the perfect method to cook biscuits in your air fryer, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Understanding the Air Fryer’s Magic for Biscuits

Before we jump into recipes, it helps to understand why the air fryer works so well for biscuits. At its core, an air fryer is a mini convection oven. It circulates hot air around food using a powerful fan, creating that crispy, golden exterior we love—without needing a ton of oil. For biscuits, this means faster cooking, even browning, and less energy use than a full-sized oven.

How Air Circulation Affects Biscuit Texture

Biscuits thrive on dry, even heat. The air fryer’s rapid circulation ensures the outside crisps up while the inside stays tender and flaky. Unlike a conventional oven, where heat can be uneven, the air fryer’s compact size means every biscuit gets consistent exposure. But here’s the catch: overcrowding ruins this effect. If you stack biscuits too close, the air can’t circulate properly, leading to soggy middles or burnt edges. Pro tip: leave at least a half-inch gap between each biscuit. Think of it like giving them personal space to breathe (and brown).

Temperature and Timing: The Goldilocks Zone

Most biscuits cook best between 325°F and 350°F. Go too high, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low, and you end up with pale, dense biscuits. For canned or store-bought dough, start with 325°F for 8–10 minutes. Homemade biscuits might need 350°F for 10–12 minutes. But here’s the thing: every air fryer is different. Mine runs a bit hot, so I reduce the temp by 25°F. Yours might be the opposite. Always check early—peek at 6 minutes to avoid overcooking. And if you’re using a dark-coated air fryer basket, lower the temp by another 10°F to prevent burning.

Choosing the Right Biscuits for Your Air Fryer

Not all biscuits are created equal—and some work better in an air fryer than others. Let’s break down your options:

Canned Biscuits: The Quick and Easy Win

Let’s start with the crowd favorite: canned biscuits (think Pillsbury Grands or similar). These are perfect for air frying because they’re pre-sized, consistent, and designed for quick baking. Here’s how to do it:

• Prep: Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper (with holes for airflow). Place biscuits in a single layer—no stacking!
• Cook: 325°F for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway for even browning (optional, but recommended).
• Check: They’re done when golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

I once tried stacking two layers in my 5.8-quart air fryer. Big mistake. The bottom ones burned, and the top ones were raw. Lesson learned: single layer only. If you’re feeding a crowd, cook in batches. It’s worth the wait.

Homemade Biscuits: Flaky, Buttery Perfection

Homemade biscuits are where the air fryer truly shines. No more waiting for the oven to preheat or worrying about uneven heat. But there are a few tricks:

• Size matters: Roll or cut biscuits to 1.5–2 inches in diameter. Larger biscuits risk undercooking.
• Brush with butter: A light egg wash or melted butter helps them brown beautifully. (I use a mix of both for extra richness.)
• Don’t overwork the dough: Over-kneading = tough biscuits. Handle it like you’re petting a cat—gently.

One time, I made jumbo-sized homemade biscuits and cooked them at 350°F for 15 minutes. The outside was perfect, but the center was doughy. After tweaking, I found that 1.5-inch biscuits at 350°F for 10–12 minutes (flipped at 6 minutes) gave me the perfect flaky layers. Your mileage may vary, so adjust as needed.

Frozen or Leftover Biscuits: A Second Life

Yes, you can air fry frozen biscuits! Just add 2–3 minutes to the cook time. For leftovers, reheat at 300°F for 3–4 minutes. They’ll crisp up without drying out. I once revived a day-old biscuit this way, and my partner couldn’t tell it wasn’t fresh. (Shhh—don’t tell him.)

Step-by-Step: The Perfect Air Fryer Biscuit Method

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s walk through a foolproof method. Whether you’re using canned, homemade, or frozen dough, these steps will get you golden, flaky biscuits every time.

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer

Start with a clean basket. Grease it lightly with oil or non-stick spray, or line it with air fryer-safe parchment paper. (Avoid regular parchment—it can fly into the heating element.) If using parchment, poke holes to let air circulate. I use a silicone liner for easy cleanup, but it’s optional.

Step 2: Arrange Biscuits Properly

Place biscuits in a single layer with space between them. For canned biscuits, leave about 1 inch apart. For homemade, 0.5–1 inch is fine. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches. Pro tip: don’t overcrowd. It’s tempting to fit more, but it ruins the texture.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Here’s a quick reference:

• Canned biscuits: 325°F, 8–10 minutes (flip at 5 minutes).
• Homemade biscuits: 350°F, 10–12 minutes (flip at 6 minutes).
• Frozen biscuits: 325°F, 10–13 minutes (no flip needed).

Remember: these are guidelines. Check early! If your air fryer runs hot, start at 300°F and adjust.

Step 4: Flip (If Needed) and Monitor

Flipping halfway ensures even browning. Use silicone-tipped tongs or a fork to avoid scratching the basket. Watch closely in the last 2 minutes—biscuits can go from golden to burnt fast.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

They’re ready when golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. For homemade biscuits, the internal temp should be 200°F if you have a thermometer. Let them cool for 1–2 minutes before serving—hot biscuits are fragile!

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Problems

Even with the perfect method, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix (or avoid) common issues:

Biscuits Are Too Pale

Cause: Temperature too low or not enough browning time.
Fix: Increase temp by 25°F or cook 1–2 minutes longer. Brush with egg wash or butter before cooking for extra color.

Biscuits Are Burnt on the Outside, Raw Inside

Cause: Too high temp or overcrowding.
Fix: Lower the temp by 25°F and cook in batches. Flip halfway to distribute heat evenly.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

Cause: Insufficient greasing or using the wrong liner.
Fix: Use oil, non-stick spray, or a silicone liner. Never use regular aluminum foil—it can block airflow.

Biscuits Are Dense or Tough

Cause: Overworked dough (for homemade) or undercooking.
Fix: For homemade, handle dough gently and don’t over-knead. For canned, ensure they’re fully cooked—raw dough = gummy texture.

Smoke or Burning Smell

Cause: Oil or crumbs in the heating element.
Fix: Clean your air fryer after every use. Wipe the basket and tray with soapy water, and check the heating coil for debris.

Creative Variations and Pro Tips

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative! The air fryer is perfect for experimenting with flavors and styles.

Flavor Boosters

• Cheese and herbs: Mix shredded cheddar and dried rosemary into homemade dough.
• Sweet twist: Add cinnamon sugar or chocolate chips to canned dough. Cook at 325°F for 8 minutes.
• Garlic parmesan: Brush cooked biscuits with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan.

Size and Shape Hacks

Mini biscuits cook faster (6–7 minutes at 325°F) and are perfect for snacks or sliders. For jumbo biscuits, split them in half and cook cut-side down first—this creates a crispy base.

Energy-Saving Perks

The air fryer uses up to 50% less energy than an oven. For a small batch of biscuits, this is a win for your wallet and the planet. Plus, it doesn’t heat up your kitchen—a blessing in summer.

Data Table: Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Times and Temps

Biscuit Type	Temperature (°F)	Cook Time (Minutes)	Notes
Canned (e.g., Pillsbury)	325	8–10	Flip halfway; single layer
Homemade (1.5-inch)	350	10–12	Brush with butter; flip at 6 min
Homemade (jumbo)	350	12–14	Split and cook cut-side down first
Frozen	325	10–13	No flip needed
Mini (½-inch)	325	6–7	Great for snacks or toppings

The Verdict: Yes, You Can (and Should!) Cook Biscuits in an Air Fryer

So, can you cook biscuits in a air fryer? Absolutely. And once you try it, you might never go back to the oven. The air fryer delivers crispy, golden biscuits in less time, with less energy, and—let’s be real—less hassle. Whether you’re using canned dough for a quick breakfast or making homemade buttery biscuits for dinner, the air fryer handles both with ease.

But remember: the key is in the details. Use the right temperature, don’t overcrowd, and check early. And don’t be afraid to experiment—add cheese, herbs, or even a cinnamon-sugar twist. The air fryer is forgiving, and even “mistakes” often turn out delicious. (I’ve eaten my fair share of slightly overcooked biscuits, and they’re still amazing with jam.)

At the end of the day, the air fryer isn’t just a trendy gadget. It’s a practical tool that makes everyday cooking easier, faster, and more fun. So grab your dough, fire up that air fryer, and discover the perfect method for yourself. Your taste buds (and your oven) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook biscuits in an air fryer! The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and tender, similar to a traditional oven.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for baking biscuits?

For most store-bought or homemade biscuits, preheat your air fryer to 325°F–350°F (160°C–175°C). Cooking at this range ensures even browning without burning the edges.

How long does it take to cook biscuits in an air fryer?

Biscuits typically take 8–12 minutes in an air fryer, depending on size and brand. Flip them halfway through for uniform cooking and check for golden tops to confirm they’re done.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking biscuits?

Yes, preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures consistent results and helps the biscuits rise properly. This step mimics a traditional oven’s environment for better texture.

Can you cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry frozen biscuits at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway. The air fryer cooks them faster than an oven with a crispier crust.

What’s the best way to keep air fryer biscuits from sticking?

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil or use parchment paper liners. Avoid overcrowding to allow air circulation and prevent soggy or unevenly cooked biscuits.