Can You Cook Biscuits in an 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 (325°F–350°F) and a quick flip halfway through, your biscuits will cook evenly without drying out, making the air fryer a game-changer for quick, delicious results.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook biscuits in an air fryer—achieve golden, flaky results faster than an oven.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
• Use parchment liners or lightly grease the basket to avoid mess and simplify cleanup.
• Space biscuits properly to allow hot air circulation for uniform cooking.
• Cook at 320°F–330°F for 8–12 minutes, adjusting for desired crispiness.
• Check early and often to avoid overcooking—air fryers vary in intensity.
• Great for small batches or quick snacks without heating a full oven.

Can You Cook Biscuits in an Air Fryer? Discover the Perfect Method

Imagine biting into a flaky, golden-brown biscuit with a crisp exterior and a tender, buttery interior—without the need to preheat your oven or wait for it to reach the right temperature. If you’re an air fryer enthusiast or a home cook looking for faster, more energy-efficient ways to prepare your favorite foods, you may have wondered: can you cook biscuits in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes, and the results are often even better than traditional baking. Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to create a convection effect, which means biscuits cook faster, with a more even golden crust and less risk of overbaking the edges while the center remains raw.

Whether you’re working with store-bought refrigerated biscuits, homemade dough, or even frozen varieties, your air fryer can handle them all with ease. This kitchen appliance, once thought of as a niche tool for reheating fries or making crispy chicken wings, has proven its versatility in baking applications—especially for quick breads like biscuits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cooking biscuits in an air fryer: from choosing the right dough and adjusting cooking times to troubleshooting common issues and achieving that perfect texture every time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or a seasoned home chef, learning how to air fry biscuits can revolutionize your breakfast, brunch, or snack routine.

Why the Air Fryer Is Ideal for Biscuits

Speed and Efficiency

One of the most compelling reasons to cook biscuits in an air fryer is speed. Traditional oven baking typically requires 12 to 18 minutes at 400°F (200°C), plus a 10–15 minute preheat time. In contrast, an air fryer heats up almost instantly and circulates hot air directly around the food, cutting total cooking time to 8 to 12 minutes—a 40–50% reduction. This makes air frying biscuits a perfect solution for busy mornings or last-minute meal prep. For example, if you’re hosting brunch and need to serve warm, fresh biscuits to guests, you can pop them in the air fryer while preparing other dishes, ensuring they’re ready at the same time.

Even Cooking and Crispy Texture

The convection-style cooking of an air fryer ensures that heat surrounds each biscuit evenly, reducing hot spots and minimizing the risk of undercooked centers or burnt edges. Unlike conventional ovens, where heat rises and settles at the top, air fryers use a powerful fan to distribute heat uniformly. This results in biscuits with a consistent golden-brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Many users report that air-fried biscuits have a slightly crispier crust—ideal for those who love a bit of crunch—while maintaining the tender crumb structure that defines a great biscuit.

Energy Savings and Small Kitchen Benefits

Air fryers use significantly less energy than full-sized ovens. On average, an air fryer consumes 70–80% less electricity per use, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option, especially for single servings or small batches. For those living in small apartments, dorm rooms, or RVs, an air fryer takes up minimal counter space and eliminates the need for a full kitchen setup. You can even cook biscuits on a camping trip with a portable air fryer and a power source. This portability and efficiency make the air fryer a game-changer for modern cooking.

Choosing the Right Biscuit Dough for Air Frying

Store-Bought Refrigerated Biscuits

One of the easiest and most popular options is using refrigerated canned biscuits (like Pillsbury Grands or similar brands). These are pre-portioned, consistent in size, and require no prep work—just open the can, separate the dough, and place them in the air fryer basket. They’re ideal for beginners and time-crunched cooks. However, not all refrigerated biscuits are created equal. For best results, choose larger, flaky varieties (e.g., buttermilk or Southern-style), as they respond well to the air fryer’s high heat and develop a better rise and texture. Avoid ultra-thin or “mini” biscuits, which may cook too quickly and burn.

Pro Tip: Lightly spray or brush the tops of refrigerated biscuits with melted butter before air frying. This enhances browning and adds a rich flavor that mimics traditional oven-baked biscuits. You can also sprinkle with coarse sugar, garlic powder, or dried herbs for a savory or sweet twist.

Homemade Biscuit Dough

If you prefer homemade biscuits, you can absolutely adapt your favorite recipe for the air fryer. The key is to keep the dough slightly thicker than you would for oven baking—about 1 to 1.5 inches—to prevent over-spreading and ensure even cooking. Use cold butter or shortening, as this helps create steam during baking, leading to flakiness. Roll or pat the dough into rounds, then place them in the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch of space between each biscuit to allow for proper air circulation.

For best results, chill your shaped dough for 10–15 minutes before air frying. This helps the biscuits hold their shape and develop a better rise. You can also brush the tops with buttermilk or heavy cream before cooking to promote browning. A popular homemade recipe that works well in the air fryer includes:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking soda (if using buttermilk)
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk or heavy cream

Frozen and Gluten-Free Biscuits

Yes, you can even air fry frozen biscuits—a lifesaver for meal prep or when you forget to thaw your dough. Simply place the frozen biscuits directly into the air fryer basket (no need to thaw first) and increase the cooking time by 2–4 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning. Brands like Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and Whole Foods offer frozen biscuit options that cook beautifully in air fryers.

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free biscuit mixes (such as King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill) also work well. Just follow the package instructions and adjust cooking time slightly—gluten-free doughs may cook faster or be more delicate. Use parchment liners or silicone mats to prevent sticking, as gluten-free biscuits can be more fragile.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Biscuits

Preparing the Air Fryer

Before cooking, ensure your air fryer is clean and dry. Lightly grease the basket with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper or a silicone liner. This prevents sticking, especially with homemade or gluten-free doughs. Never use aluminum foil directly in the basket without holes, as it can block airflow and cause uneven cooking or even damage the appliance. If using foil, poke small holes to allow hot air to circulate.

Arranging the Biscuits

Space is crucial. Place biscuits in a single layer with at least 1 inch of space between each one. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping and can result in undercooked centers. For most standard 5.8-quart air fryers, you can fit 4–6 large biscuits comfortably. If cooking more, do it in batches to maintain quality.

Setting Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for most biscuit types. This temperature provides enough heat to brown the exterior without burning, while allowing the interior to cook through. Cooking time varies by type:

• Refrigerated biscuits: 8–10 minutes
• Homemade biscuits (1.5-inch thick): 10–12 minutes
• Frozen biscuits: 10–14 minutes (add 2–4 minutes)
• Mini or thin biscuits: 6–8 minutes (watch closely)

Cooking and Checking for Doneness

Start cooking and avoid opening the basket during the first 7–8 minutes to maintain consistent heat. After that, check progress every 1–2 minutes. A properly cooked biscuit should be golden brown on top, slightly firm to the touch, and sound hollow when tapped. For a foolproof method, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with dry crumbs, the biscuit is done.

Pro Tip: Flip biscuits halfway through cooking for even browning on both sides, especially if your air fryer has a less powerful fan or if you’re cooking thicker homemade versions. Use tongs or a silicone spatula to avoid breaking the delicate structure.

Resting and Serving

Once cooked, let biscuits rest in the basket for 1–2 minutes. This allows the steam to settle and the structure to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. Then transfer to a wire rack or plate. Serve warm with butter, jam, honey, gravy, or as a base for biscuit sandwiches (e.g., fried chicken or eggs Benedict).

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

One of the most frequent errors is trying to cook too many biscuits at once. When biscuits are too close together, hot air can’t circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking, soggy centers, and pale exteriors. Always prioritize spacing over quantity. If you need more, cook in batches. Remember: quality over speed.

Incorrect Temperature Settings

Too high a temperature (above 375°F) can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Too low (below 325°F) results in pale, dense biscuits. Stick to 350°F for most recipes. If your air fryer runs hot (common in some models), reduce the temperature by 10–15°F and extend cooking time slightly. Use an oven thermometer to verify internal air fryer temperature if needed.

Not Prepping the Dough Properly

For homemade biscuits, using warm butter or overworking the dough leads to tough, flat biscuits. Always use cold fat and handle the dough as little as possible. Chilling the shaped dough before air frying helps maintain flakiness. For refrigerated biscuits, don’t press them flat—let them rise naturally.

Ignoring the Need for Oil or Spray

Even non-stick baskets benefit from a light coating of oil. This promotes browning and prevents sticking, especially with homemade or gluten-free doughs. Use a high-smoke-point oil (e.g., avocado, grapeseed) or non-aerosol spray. Avoid butter sprays with propellants, which can damage the basket’s non-stick coating.

Skipping the Resting Time

Removing biscuits immediately from the air fryer can cause them to collapse slightly due to trapped steam. A brief 1–2 minute rest stabilizes the structure and improves texture. This small step makes a noticeable difference in mouthfeel.

Creative Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Cheese and Herb Biscuits

Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to your homemade biscuit dough. The cheese melts into pockets of gooey goodness, while herbs infuse every bite. Air frying enhances the cheese’s browning, giving a savory, golden crust. These are perfect alongside soups or stews.

Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits

For a dessert twist, brush cooked biscuits with melted butter and roll in a mix of cinnamon and sugar. Alternatively, mix cinnamon and sugar directly into the dough. You can even fill them with apple pie filling or Nutella before baking. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Garlic and Parmesan Biscuits

Brush tops with garlic-infused butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan before air frying. The result is a savory, aromatic biscuit perfect for pairing with pasta, salads, or as a standalone appetizer. For extra flavor, mix 1/2 tsp garlic powder into the dough.

Breakfast Biscuit Sandwiches

Use air-fried biscuits as a base for breakfast sandwiches. Layer with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, avocado, or sautéed spinach. The crisp exterior holds up well to fillings without getting soggy. Assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.

Mini Biscuit Pizzas

Cut large biscuits in half, spread with marinara sauce, top with mozzarella and pepperoni, then air fry for 3–4 additional minutes until cheese is bubbly. A fun, kid-friendly meal or party appetizer.

Data Table: Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Guide

Biscuit Type	Size	Temperature	Time (Minutes)	Prep Tips	Notes
Refrigerated (Pillsbury Grands)	Large	350°F	8–10	Lightly spray with butter	Do not press flat
Homemade (Buttermilk)	1.5-inch thick	350°F	10–12	Chill dough before cooking	Flip halfway for even browning
Frozen (Store-Bought)	Large	350°F	10–14	No thawing needed	Add 2–4 minutes vs. fresh
Mini/Thin Biscuits	1-inch thick	340°F	6–8	Use parchment liner	Watch closely to avoid burning
Gluten-Free Mix	1.25-inch thick	350°F	9–11	Use silicone mat	May be more delicate; handle carefully

Conclusion: Mastering Biscuits in Your Air Fryer

So, can you cook biscuits in an air fryer? Absolutely—and with remarkable success. The air fryer delivers faster cooking times, energy efficiency, and a superior texture that many home cooks prefer over traditional baking. Whether you’re using refrigerated, homemade, frozen, or gluten-free dough, the method is simple, adaptable, and consistently rewarding. By following the right temperature, spacing, and timing guidelines, you can achieve golden, flaky, tender biscuits in under 12 minutes, every time.

The versatility of air fryer biscuits extends far beyond basic breakfast fare. With creative flavor additions—cheese, herbs, cinnamon sugar, or savory fillings—you can transform a simple biscuit into a gourmet experience. From quick weekday meals to impressive weekend brunches, the air fryer proves itself as a must-have tool for modern kitchens. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about quality, consistency, and innovation in home cooking.

As you experiment with different doughs, sizes, and flavors, keep notes on what works best for your model and preferences. Over time, you’ll develop your own signature air fryer biscuit recipe—one that’s perfectly tailored to your taste and lifestyle. The next time you reach for a can of biscuits or mix up a batch from scratch, skip the oven and let your air fryer do the work. You’ll be rewarded with a warm, golden, delicious biscuit that’s ready in minutes—proof that sometimes, the simplest tools can yield the most satisfying results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook biscuits in an air fryer! The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even baking, resulting in golden, flaky biscuits in less time than a conventional oven.

What temperature should you use to cook biscuits in an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 325°F–350°F (160°C–175°C) for most biscuits. This range prevents burning while ensuring a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.

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

Most biscuits take 8–12 minutes in an air fryer, depending on size and brand. Check for a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean.

Can you cook store-bought biscuits in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Store-bought biscuits cook perfectly in an air fryer. Just place them in the basket without overcrowding and follow the time/temperature guidelines above.

Do you need to adjust cooking time for homemade biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, homemade biscuits may require slight adjustments. Reduce the time by 1–2 minutes compared to oven baking, and monitor for doneness to avoid overcooking.

Is an air fryer better than an oven for cooking biscuits?

An air fryer cooks biscuits faster and with less energy, while delivering a crispier crust. However, ovens are better for larger batches. The air fryer is ideal for quick, small-batch results.