Can You Make Can Biscuits in an Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can make canned biscuits in an air fryer—quickly, evenly, and with perfectly golden results. This method cuts down baking time and delivers flaky, fluffy biscuits without the need for preheating or oven monitoring. Just arrange the biscuits in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and air fry for 8–10 minutes for a hassle-free breakfast or side.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Make canned biscuits in an air fryer safely and quickly.
• Preheat first: Always preheat the air fryer for even, golden results.
• Adjust temperature: Cook at 320°F–330°F to avoid burnt edges or raw centers.
• Space matters: Leave room between biscuits to allow proper air circulation.
• Check early: Start checking at 8 minutes; cook time varies by model.
• No oil needed: Canned biscuits cook perfectly without added fat or spray.

Can You Make Can Biscuits in an Air Fryer? Discover How

Let’s face it—weekday mornings are a blur of alarms, coffee spills, and last-minute outfit changes. The last thing you need is a complicated breakfast routine. That’s why canned biscuits have become a household staple for so many of us. They’re quick, reliable, and let’s be honest, pretty darn delicious when golden and flaky. But here’s a question that’s been buzzing in kitchen circles lately: Can you make can biscuits in an air fryer? And if so, how does it compare to the traditional oven or toaster oven?

As someone who’s tested this method more times than I’ve hit snooze (which is a lot), I can tell you—yes, you absolutely can. And not only can you, but you might actually prefer it. The air fryer transforms canned biscuits into something crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in under 10 minutes. No preheating, no waiting, no soggy bottoms. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student with a mini kitchen, or just someone who loves efficiency, this method is worth your attention. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the ins and outs of making can biscuits in an air fryer, from setup to storage, and even some fun flavor hacks you won’t want to miss.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Canned Biscuits?

You might be wondering: if canned biscuits already come pre-made, why bother changing the cooking method? After all, they were designed for ovens, right? Well, here’s the thing—the air fryer isn’t just a trendy gadget. It’s a game-changer for quick, consistent, and energy-efficient cooking. And when it comes to can biscuits, it delivers some surprising advantages.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the biggest perks? No preheating required. Traditional ovens can take 10–15 minutes to reach the right temperature, especially in older models. But an air fryer? It’s ready to go in 2–3 minutes. For a batch of four to eight biscuits, you’re looking at a total cook time of 7–10 minutes from start to finish. That’s faster than waiting for your coffee to brew—and trust me, I’ve timed it.

Plus, since the air fryer uses convection heating (hot air circulating rapidly), it cooks food more evenly and quickly. No more checking the oven every two minutes to see if the biscuits are done. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy.

Energy Savings and Space

If you’re cooking for one or two, firing up a full-sized oven feels like overkill. It wastes energy and heats up your kitchen—especially unpleasant in the summer. An air fryer uses far less electricity and doesn’t warm your space. It’s also compact, making it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RVs.

And let’s not forget: fewer dishes. No baking sheet, no parchment paper (though you can use it), no greasing. Just pop the biscuits in and go.

Texture and Taste

Here’s where it gets fun. Air fryer biscuits tend to be more golden and slightly crisp on the outside while staying soft and fluffy inside. The circulating air helps create a delicate crust—almost like a cross between a baked biscuit and a deep-fried one, but without the oil. If you’ve ever had a biscuit that was pale on the outside and doughy inside (we’ve all been there), the air fryer helps avoid that.

One friend of mine, a self-proclaimed biscuit snob, said, “I’ll never go back to the oven. The air fryer gives them that ‘just-baked’ diner feel.” High praise from someone who owns three biscuit cutters.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Can Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Ready to try it yourself? Great. This process is simple, but a few small details make all the difference. Let’s walk through it step by step, with tips to avoid common pitfalls.

What You’ll Need

• A standard can of refrigerated biscuits (8-count, like Pillsbury Grands or similar)
• An air fryer (basket or oven-style, 5.3–6.5 quarts is ideal)
• Non-stick cooking spray or a little oil (optional)
• Air fryer parchment liners (optional, but helpful)
• Tongs or a spatula (for flipping, if needed)

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Start by lightly greasing the basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. This prevents sticking and helps with browning. Alternatively, use a parchment liner—just make sure it has holes for airflow. Never cover the entire bottom with foil or solid paper, as it blocks circulation and can damage your air fryer.

Pro tip: If your biscuits tend to stick, a light dusting of flour or cornstarch on the basket also works.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Open the can and separate the biscuits. Gently pull them apart—don’t tear them. Place them in the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch of space between each. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and steam buildup, which makes the biscuits soggy.

For a 6-quart air fryer, 4 biscuits fit comfortably. If you’re using a smaller model, cook in batches. Larger models (8+ quarts) can handle 6–8, depending on size.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is the sweet spot for most canned biscuits. Start with 7 minutes. After 5 minutes, open the basket and check the color. If the tops are golden and the edges look set, they’re likely done. If not, add 1–2 more minutes.

Note: Every air fryer is slightly different. Mine (a Ninja Foodi) cooks a bit faster, so I usually do 6.5 minutes. Your first batch is a test run—adjust as needed.

Step 4: Flip (Optional but Recommended)

After 4 minutes, flip each biscuit using tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning on both sides. If you skip this, the top might brown perfectly while the bottom stays pale. Not a dealbreaker, but flipping gives you that restaurant-quality finish.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Use a toothpick or small knife to check the center. It should come out clean or with a few dry crumbs. If it’s wet or sticky, give it another minute. You can also gently press the top—fully cooked biscuits spring back slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the biscuits cool for 1–2 minutes before serving. They’ll firm up a bit and be easier to handle. Serve warm with butter, jam, honey, or as a base for breakfast sandwiches. They’re also fantastic with gravy or alongside scrambled eggs.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best methods have hiccups. Here are the most frequent issues people run into when making can biscuits in an air fryer—and how to fix them.

Biscuits Are Too Pale

If your biscuits come out light yellow instead of golden brown, it’s usually because:

• They weren’t flipped
• The air fryer was overcrowded
• The temperature was too low (try 360°F next time)

Solution: Flip at the 4-minute mark, leave space between biscuits, and increase temp slightly if needed.

Biscuits Are Burnt on the Outside, Raw Inside

This happens when the outside browns too fast, but the center doesn’t have time to cook. It’s common with high-wattage air fryers.

Solution: Lower the temperature to 330°F and cook for 8–10 minutes. Or, flip earlier (at 3 minutes) to slow the browning.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

Even with oil, some biscuits cling like they’re part of the appliance.

Solution: Use parchment liners, increase greasing slightly, or try a silicone liner. Avoid metal utensils—they can scratch non-stick surfaces.

Uneven Cooking

If some biscuits are done and others aren’t, it’s likely due to placement. Biscuits in the center cook faster than those at the edges.

Solution: Rotate the basket halfway through, or cook in smaller batches. Also, avoid stacking biscuits—they won’t cook properly.

Too Much Steam

Excess moisture leads to soggy biscuits. This happens if you cook too many at once or don’t leave enough space.

Solution: Don’t overcrowd. If your air fryer has a “dehydrate” or “crisp” setting, use it for the last minute to evaporate extra moisture.

Flavor Upgrades and Creative Variations

Plain biscuits are great, but why stop there? The air fryer is the perfect canvas for flavor experiments. Here are some easy, delicious upgrades you can try.

Cheese and Herb Biscuits

Before cooking, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or a cheese blend. Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. For a kick, toss in a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes.

Pro tip: Add the cheese at the 5-minute mark so it melts but doesn’t burn.

Cinnamon Sugar Twists

After cooking, roll warm biscuits in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar (2:1 ratio). Or, for a twist, cut each biscuit in half, brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and air fry for 1–2 more minutes. Instant cinnamon rolls—without the rolling.

Everything Bagel Style

Brush with butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before cooking. The seeds and salt add a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with cream cheese or avocado.

Breakfast Sandwich Hack

Use a biscuit as the base. After cooking, slice it in half and add a fried egg, cheese, and a slice of ham or bacon. For a veggie version, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a slice of tomato.

Sweet Dessert Biscuits

Top with Nutella, sliced strawberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Or, fill with apple pie filling and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yes, it’s indulgent—but worth it.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

If you’re using gluten-free canned biscuits (like Immaculate Baking Co.), the process is the same. Just watch the time—GF dough can cook faster. For dairy-free, skip the butter and use coconut oil or olive oil spray.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: A Side-by-Side Comparison

To give you a clear picture, here’s a data table comparing air fryer and traditional oven methods for canned biscuits. This is based on my testing with a 6-quart Ninja Air Fryer and a standard electric oven (350°F).

Factor	Air Fryer	Traditional Oven
Preheat Time	2–3 minutes	10–15 minutes
Cook Time	7–9 minutes	12–15 minutes
Total Time	9–12 minutes	22–30 minutes
Energy Use	Low (~1,500 watts)	High (~3,000 watts)
Texture	Crispy outside, soft inside	Evenly soft, less crisp
Cleanup	Minimal (basket wipes clean)	Moderate (baking sheet, oil residue)
Best For	Quick meals, small batches	Large batches, baking multiple items

As you can see, the air fryer wins on speed, energy, and cleanup. The oven still has its place—especially if you’re baking a full sheet of biscuits or using the oven for other dishes. But for a quick, solo breakfast? The air fryer is the clear champion.

Storage, Reheating, and Leftover Tips

Made a batch and have leftovers? No problem. Here’s how to store and reheat your air fryer biscuits so they taste just as good the next day.

Storing Fresh Biscuits

Let biscuits cool completely, then place in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them (see below).

Reheating in the Air Fryer

This is the best method for restoring crispness. Place biscuits in the air fryer at 325°F for 2–3 minutes. No need to preheat. They’ll come out warm, slightly crisp, and never dry.

Reheating in the Oven or Toaster Oven

Wrap in foil and heat at 300°F for 5–7 minutes. This keeps them moist but won’t restore crispness like the air fryer does.

Freezing and Thawing

To freeze, place cooled biscuits on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour (to prevent sticking). Then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

To thaw, let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes. Or, cook straight from frozen at 330°F for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway.

Creative Leftover Uses

• Crumbled into a bread pudding or casserole
• Used as a base for mini pizzas (add sauce, cheese, toppings, air fry 3 minutes)
• Turned into “biscuit croutons” for salads (cube, toss with oil, air fry 4 minutes)

One of my favorite tricks? Grind leftover biscuits into crumbs and use them as a crust for cheesecakes or meatloaf. It’s a zero-waste hack that tastes amazing.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try It?

So, can you make can biscuits in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s faster, easier, and often tastier than the traditional method. Whether you’re rushing to work, feeding a hungry family, or just craving a warm, flaky biscuit on a lazy Sunday, the air fryer delivers.

Yes, there’s a small learning curve. Your first batch might be a little too pale or slightly undercooked. But that’s okay. Every cook has a few flops. The beauty of this method is how forgiving it is—and how quickly you can tweak it. Adjust the time, flip the biscuits, experiment with flavors. Before you know it, you’ll be making air fryer biscuits like a pro.

And the best part? You’re not just saving time. You’re creating a habit that makes mornings easier, kitchens cooler, and breakfasts more enjoyable. So grab a can, fire up that air fryer, and give it a try. Your taste buds—and your snooze button—will thank you.

Remember: cooking isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, convenience, and a little joy in the everyday. And if a can of biscuits can deliver that? Well, that’s a win in my book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make can biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make canned biscuits in an air fryer! The air fryer’s circulating heat cooks them evenly, resulting in golden, flaky layers without needing an oven.

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

Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for best results. This temperature ensures the biscuits cook through without burning the outer layers.

How long do canned biscuits take in an air fryer?

Canned biscuits typically take 8–12 minutes in an air fryer, depending on size and brand. Flip them halfway for even browning and check for a golden crust.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for canned biscuits?

Preheating is recommended for consistent results, but it’s not mandatory. Skipping preheat may add 1–2 minutes to cooking time, so monitor closely.

Can you stack canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Avoid stacking—air fryers rely on airflow. Place biscuits in a single layer with space between each to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.

Are air fryer canned biscuits healthier than oven-baked?

Air fryer biscuits use less oil and cook faster, reducing energy use. While nutrition is similar, the air fryer delivers a crispier texture with fewer calories from added fats.