Can You Make Canned Biscuits in an Air Fryer Try This Easy Hack

Yes, you can make canned biscuits in an air fryer—and they turn out golden, flaky, and perfectly cooked in under 10 minutes. This easy hack delivers faster, crispier results than baking, with no preheating required and minimal cleanup. Just place the biscuits in the basket, set the temperature, and enjoy fresh-tasting treats in a fraction of the time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fry canned biscuits for a quick, crispy treat in under 10 minutes.
• Preheat first: Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking and golden results.
• Space matters: Arrange biscuits with room to expand for perfect puffiness.
• Flip halfway: Turn biscuits once for uniform browning and texture.
• Check early: Start checking at 6 minutes to avoid overcooking or burning.
• Season creatively: Add butter, herbs, or cheese before air frying for extra flavor.

Why Air Frying Canned Biscuits Is a Game-Changer

If you’ve ever stood in front of your pantry, staring at a can of refrigerated biscuits, wondering if there’s a faster, crispier way to cook them, you’re not alone. The air fryer has taken the kitchen world by storm, promising faster cooking times, less mess, and a golden, crispy exterior on everything from chicken tenders to roasted vegetables. But can you make canned biscuits in an air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes—and the results might just surprise you.

Air frying canned biscuits is not only possible but also a brilliant shortcut for busy mornings, last-minute snacks, or impromptu brunch gatherings. Traditional oven baking can take 10–15 minutes, and stovetop methods often require more attention and cleanup. The air fryer, with its rapid circulation of hot air, cooks biscuits in as little as 6–9 minutes, with a texture that’s often fluffier on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside. This easy hack is perfect for those who want convenience without sacrificing flavor or quality.

How Air Frying Works: The Science Behind the Crisp

To understand why air frying canned biscuits works so well, it helps to know how the appliance functions. Unlike conventional ovens that rely on ambient heat, air fryers use a high-powered fan to circulate superheated air around food at high speeds. This process, known as convection cooking, promotes even browning and a crispy exterior—similar to deep frying—but with little to no oil.

Convection vs. Conventional Heating

In a traditional oven, biscuits cook from the outside in, often resulting in a slightly dry or undercooked center if the outer layers overcook. The air fryer, however, delivers heat from multiple angles simultaneously. This means the dough rises evenly, and the exterior crisps up quickly before the inside dries out. The result? A biscuit that’s golden, flaky, and tender—all in less time.

For example, a standard can of 8 Pillsbury Grands! biscuits bakes in a 350°F oven for about 12–14 minutes. In an air fryer preheated to 330°F, the same biscuits cook in just 7–9 minutes. That’s nearly a 40% time reduction—without sacrificing quality.

Why Less Oil Doesn’t Mean Less Flavor

One common misconception is that air frying requires oil to achieve crispiness. While a light spray of oil (such as avocado or olive oil) can enhance browning and add a subtle richness, it’s not necessary. Canned biscuit dough already contains shortening and fat, which melts during cooking and helps create that signature flaky texture. The air fryer’s intense heat draws out this fat, creating a crisp crust while keeping the interior moist.

Tip: If you want an extra golden, restaurant-style finish, lightly spray the tops of the biscuits with cooking oil before air frying. This mimics the effect of brushing with butter and enhances browning without adding significant calories.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Air Fry Canned Biscuits Perfectly

Making canned biscuits in an air fryer is incredibly simple—but a few key steps ensure the best results. Follow this foolproof method to achieve bakery-quality biscuits at home.

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Always preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 330°F (165°C). This ensures the biscuits start cooking immediately, promoting even rise and browning. Skipping preheating can lead to uneven texture or soggy bottoms.

Why it matters: Just like a pizza stone in an oven, a preheated air fryer basket creates a consistent cooking environment. Biscuits placed in a cold basket will steam before they crisp, affecting texture.

2. Prepare the Biscuits

Open the can and separate the biscuits. Place them on a clean surface. For best results, leave them at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. This allows the dough to relax slightly, reducing the chance of shrinkage during cooking.

• Do not stack biscuits—they need space for air to circulate.
• If you want a buttery flavor, brush the tops lightly with melted butter before cooking.
• For a sweet twist, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or drizzle with honey after cooking.

3. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Place 3–4 biscuits in the basket, depending on size and your air fryer capacity. Leave at least ½ inch of space between each biscuit to allow for expansion. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper rounds or a silicone liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Avoid non-stick sprays on parchment, as they can degrade at high heat.

4. Cook and Monitor

Set the air fryer to 330°F (165°C) and cook for 7–9 minutes. Flip the biscuits halfway through (optional but recommended for even browning). At the 6-minute mark, check for doneness: the tops should be golden brown, and the internal temperature should reach 190–200°F when tested with a meat thermometer.

Note: Cooking time varies by air fryer model (see table below). Smaller biscuits (like Pillsbury Buttermilk) may cook in 6–7 minutes, while larger ones (Grands!) may need 9 minutes.

5. Cool and Serve

Remove biscuits using tongs or a silicone spatula. Let them cool for 1–2 minutes—they continue cooking slightly from residual heat. Serve warm with butter, jam, gravy, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.

Air Fryer Models and Cooking Times: What to Expect

Not all air fryers are created equal. Size, wattage, and airflow design affect cooking performance. Below is a comparison of popular models and their recommended cooking times for a standard can of 8 Pillsbury Buttermilk Biscuits (each ~2.5 inches in diameter).

Air Fryer Model	Capacity (Qt)	Wattage	Preheat Time	Cooking Time (330°F)	Notes
Instant Vortex Plus 6-Qt	6	1500	3 min	7–8 min	Even browning; flip at 4 min
Ninja Foodi Max XL 8-Qt	8	1750	4 min	6–7 min	Fastest cook time; spacious basket
Cosori Smart Air Fryer 5.8-Qt	5.8	1500	3 min	7–8 min	App-controlled; consistent results
Dash Compact 2-Qt	2	1000	5 min	8–9 min	Best for 1–2 biscuits; slower heat
Philips Premium AirFryer XXL	7.3	2225	3 min	6–7 min	RapidAir technology; minimal flipping

Key Takeaway: Higher wattage air fryers (1750W+) tend to cook faster and more evenly. Smaller models may require longer cook times and batch cooking. Always monitor the first batch to adjust timing for your specific appliance.

Creative Variations and Flavor Hacks

Once you’ve mastered the basic air fryer biscuit, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer is a versatile tool that can elevate canned biscuits into gourmet treats with minimal effort.

Savory Twists

• Cheesy Biscuit Bites: Cut each biscuit into quarters, roll into balls, and stuff with a cube of cheddar or mozzarella. Air fry at 330°F for 6–7 minutes until golden and cheese is melted. Serve with ranch or marinara.
• Garlic Herb Butter Biscuits: Melt 2 tbsp butter with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried parsley, and a pinch of salt. Brush over biscuits before air frying. Sprinkle with Parmesan after cooking.
• Biscuit Sliders: Split cooked biscuits and fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese. Reheat in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 300°F for a warm breakfast sandwich.

Sweet and Decadent Ideas

• Cinnamon Sugar Pull-Aparts: Cut biscuits into strips, toss in a mix of ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon, then air fry. Drizzle with glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Apple Pie Biscuits: Place a small spoonful of apple pie filling in the center of each biscuit, fold, and seal. Air fry for 8 minutes. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Chocolate Chip Biscuit Bombs: Press a few chocolate chips into the center of each biscuit before cooking. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Gluten-Free and Healthier Options

While most canned biscuits contain gluten and processed ingredients, brands like Glutino and Bob’s Red Mill offer gluten-free versions that air fry beautifully. For a healthier twist:

• Use whole-grain or plant-based biscuit dough if available.
• Skip added butter or sugar; pair with fresh fruit or nut butter.
• Make mini biscuits for portion control—great for kids or snacks.

Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner?

Air fryer biscuits aren’t just for breakfast. Try them as:

• Mini pizza bases topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and veggies.
• Hamburger buns for sliders—just split and toast in the air fryer for 2 minutes.
• Dessert cups filled with ice cream and berries (after cooling).

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Biscuit Issues

Even the best methods can hit a snag. Here’s how to fix common problems and ensure perfect biscuits every time.

Biscuits Are Too Pale or Undercooked

• Cause: Air fryer not preheated, low wattage, or overcrowding.
• Fix: Always preheat. Cook in smaller batches. Increase temperature to 340°F and add 1–2 minutes to cook time.
• Pro Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, lower the temperature to 320°F and extend cooking time by 1–2 minutes.

Biscuits Are Dry or Crumbly

• Cause: Overcooking or using low-fat dough.
• Fix: Reduce cook time by 1 minute. Brush with butter immediately after removing from the air fryer to add moisture.
• Note: Some brands (like Pillsbury) have a higher fat content, which yields a more tender biscuit. Stick with full-fat versions for best results.

Biscuits Stick to the Basket

• Cause: No liner or oil, or using a scratched non-stick basket.
• Fix: Use parchment paper rounds (cut to fit) or a silicone liner. Lightly spray the basket with oil before placing biscuits.
• Alternative: Line with aluminum foil with small holes poked for airflow—this works in a pinch.

Biscuits Don’t Rise Properly

• Cause: Old dough, overhandling, or cold dough.
• Fix: Check the expiration date on the can. Let biscuits sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking. Handle gently when placing in the basket.
• Bonus: For extra lift, make a small slit in the top of each biscuit before air frying—this allows steam to escape and promotes even rise.

Uneven Browning

• Cause: Poor air circulation or not flipping halfway.
• Fix: Flip biscuits at the 4-minute mark. Rotate the basket 180° if your air fryer has hot spots (common in older models).
• Tip: Use a convection setting if your air fryer has multiple modes—this ensures even airflow.

Final Thoughts: Why This Hack Is a Must-Try

The question “can you make canned biscuits in an air fryer?” is no longer up for debate—it’s a resounding yes, and it’s one of the easiest, most satisfying kitchen hacks you’ll ever try. In under 10 minutes, you can transform a simple can of refrigerated dough into golden, fluffy, restaurant-quality biscuits with minimal effort and cleanup.

Beyond speed and convenience, air frying offers superior texture and versatility. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast, a fun snack, or a creative meal, this method delivers consistent results across air fryer models and biscuit brands. From savory stuffed bites to sweet cinnamon rolls, the possibilities are endless.

So the next time you’re craving biscuits—whether for a lazy Sunday morning or a surprise guest—skip the oven and reach for your air fryer. With this easy hack, you’ll save time, impress your family, and rediscover the joy of simple, delicious cooking. Your air fryer isn’t just for fries—it’s a biscuit-making machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make canned biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make canned biscuits in an air fryer! This easy hack yields golden, flaky biscuits in less time than an oven, with minimal preheating required.

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

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for best results. Cooking at this temperature ensures even browning without burning the edges of the canned biscuits.

How long do canned biscuits take in an air fryer?

Most canned biscuits cook in 8–10 minutes in an air fryer. Check for a golden-brown top and a fluffy interior, and avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking.

Do I need to grease the air fryer basket for canned biscuits?

Lightly greasing the basket or using parchment paper with holes helps prevent sticking. Since canned biscuits contain fat, light greasing is often enough to avoid mess.

Can you make canned biscuits in an air fryer without preheating?

While possible, preheating ensures consistent results and better texture. Skipping preheat may lead to uneven cooking or slightly longer cook times for your canned biscuits.

Why are my air fryer canned biscuits doughy inside?

Undercooking or overcrowding the basket can cause a doughy center. Cook in batches and extend cook time by 1–2 minutes if needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick.