Can You Make Pillsbury Biscuits in the Air Fryer Fast Easy

Imagine this: You wake up craving warm, buttery, flaky biscuits, but the thought of waiting for the oven to preheat—and then baking for 12 to 15 minutes—feels like too much effort. You glance at your air fryer, sitting proudly on the counter, and wonder: Can I make Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer fast and easy? The short answer? Absolutely! And not only is it possible, but it might just be the most convenient way to get that golden, oven-fresh taste in half the time.

As someone who’s tested everything from frozen waffles to cinnamon rolls in my air fryer, I can tell you this: Pillsbury biscuits are one of the best convenience foods you can cook in this appliance. They come out fluffy on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and ready in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re rushing to get breakfast on the table, hosting a last-minute brunch, or just want a quick snack, the air fryer turns a simple can of dough into a kitchen hero. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from setup to serving—so you can make Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer fast and easy, every single time.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Pillsbury Biscuits?

Speed and Efficiency

Let’s start with the biggest win: time. Traditional oven baking requires preheating (usually 10–15 minutes) and then baking for 12–14 minutes. That’s over 25 minutes from start to finish. With an air fryer, you can skip the preheat and go straight to cooking. Most Pillsbury biscuits are ready in 6 to 9 minutes, depending on your model and desired crispiness. That’s a huge time saver—especially on busy mornings or when you’re feeding a hungry crowd.

I remember one morning when my kids were late for school and my husband needed something quick before work. I popped six biscuits into my 5.8-quart air fryer, set the timer for 7 minutes, and had warm, golden biscuits ready before the coffee finished brewing. No mess, no waiting. Just pure breakfast magic.

Even Cooking and Crisp Texture

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food evenly from all sides. Unlike ovens, which can create hot spots or uneven browning, air fryers deliver consistent results. The biscuits rise beautifully and develop a light, golden crust without burning the bottoms—something I struggled with in my older oven.

Another bonus? The air fryer’s compact space means less energy waste. You’re heating a small chamber instead of an entire oven, which is better for your electricity bill and the environment. Plus, it doesn’t heat up your kitchen on hot summer days—a win-win for comfort and efficiency.

Perfect for Small Portions

If you’re cooking for one or two people, using a full-sized oven feels like overkill. The air fryer lets you cook just what you need, whether it’s one biscuit or six. I often make a single biscuit for a quick snack with soup or a small breakfast sandwich. No need to heat a large appliance just for a small batch.

What You Need to Get Started

Essential Equipment

You don’t need fancy tools or special ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Air fryer (any size, but 3.5 to 6 quarts is ideal)
Non-stick air fryer basket or parchment paper (to prevent sticking)
Can of Pillsbury Grands! or Pillsbury Flaky Layers Biscuits (original, butter, or buttermilk)
Small brush or spoon (optional, for butter or glaze)

I recommend using a parchment liner or air fryer liner to make cleanup a breeze. These reusable or disposable liners keep the biscuits from sticking and make lifting them out easy. If you don’t have one, you can lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray—but parchment is my go-to for zero fuss.

Choosing the Right Pillsbury Biscuits

Not all Pillsbury biscuits are the same, and the type you choose affects cooking time and texture:

Pillsbury Grands! (Original or Buttermilk): Thicker, fluffier, and perfect for sandwiches. Cook 7–9 minutes.
Pillsbury Flaky Layers: More delicate, with visible layers. Cook 6–8 minutes.
Pillsbury Grands! Jr.: Smaller biscuits, ideal for kids or appetizers. Cook 5–7 minutes.

I’ve found that the original Grands! work best in the air fryer because they hold their shape well and get that perfect balance of crisp and soft. But don’t be afraid to experiment—my daughter loves the flaky layers with a drizzle of honey.

Optional Upgrades for Extra Flavor

While the biscuits taste great on their own, a few simple upgrades can take them to the next level:

Brush with melted butter after cooking for a rich, golden finish
Sprinkle with garlic powder, rosemary, or cinnamon sugar for savory or sweet twists
Top with shredded cheese or cooked bacon before the last 2 minutes of cooking
Add a dollop of jam or honey butter right before serving

One of my favorite tricks: I brush the biscuits with garlic butter and sprinkle them with parmesan cheese. They turn into mini garlic breadsticks—perfect with soup or chili.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pillsbury Biscuits in the Air Fryer Fast Easy

Step 1: Prep the Air Fryer

Start by turning on your air fryer and setting it to 350°F (175°C). No preheating needed for most models, but if yours has a preheat function, go ahead and use it. While it heats, line the basket with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking oil.

Pro tip: If you’re using parchment, cut it to fit the basket and poke a few small holes in the center to allow air to circulate. This prevents the paper from flying around during cooking.

Step 2: Arrange the Biscuits

Open the can of Pillsbury biscuits and separate them. Place them in the basket with at least 1 inch of space between each. This is crucial! Biscuits expand as they cook, and crowding them leads to uneven baking and sticking together.

I usually fit 5–6 full-sized biscuits in my 5.8-quart air fryer. If I’m making the Jr. size, I can fit up to 8. For larger models (6+ quarts), you might fit 7–8 full-sized biscuits—just make sure they’re not touching.

Step 3: Set Time and Temperature

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 6 to 9 minutes, depending on your biscuit type and desired crispiness. Here’s a quick guide:

Grands! or Flaky Layers: 7–9 minutes
Grands! Jr.: 5–7 minutes

For a softer texture, aim for the lower end (6–7 minutes). For a crispier, golden-brown finish, go for 8–9 minutes. I like mine at 7.5 minutes—just enough crunch on the outside with a soft, pillowy center.

Step 4: Check and Flip (Optional)

After 5 minutes, open the basket and check the biscuits. If they’re browning too quickly, you can flip them gently with tongs or a fork. This isn’t always necessary, but it helps with even coloring—especially if your air fryer has a hot spot at the top.

I’ve found that flipping isn’t needed if you’re using parchment, but it’s a good idea if you’re cooking directly on a greased basket. Just be careful—biscuits are delicate at this stage!

Step 5: Test for Doneness

At the end of the cooking time, the biscuits should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. To test if they’re fully cooked, gently press the center. If it springs back, they’re done. If it feels doughy, cook for 1–2 more minutes.

You can also insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few dry crumbs—not wet dough.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the biscuits using tongs or a spatula. Let them cool for 1–2 minutes (they’re hottest right after cooking). Then, serve them warm with your favorite toppings:

Butter and honey
Jelly or jam
Breakfast sandwiches (with egg, bacon, or sausage)
Savory toppings (cheese, herbs, gravy)

My family loves splitting them open and filling them with scrambled eggs and cheese—like mini breakfast tacos. Delicious!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuits

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

This is the #1 mistake people make. Biscuits need space to expand and cook evenly. If they’re too close, they’ll stick together, cook unevenly, and lose their flaky texture. I learned this the hard way—my first batch was one giant biscuit blob. Not pretty.

As a rule of thumb: leave at least an inch between each biscuit. If you have a small air fryer, cook in batches. It’s better to wait 7 minutes twice than to ruin a batch.

Adjust Time Based on Your Model

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some cook hotter or faster than others. I have a Ninja Foodi that runs a bit hot, so I reduce the time by 30 seconds. My friend’s Cosori runs cooler, so she adds an extra minute.

The best way to find your sweet spot? Do a test run. Cook one biscuit first, then adjust the time for your next batch. Keep notes if you’re like me and forget things!

Use Parchment for Easy Cleanup

Trust me—parchment paper is a game-changer. No scrubbing, no stuck-on bits, no ruined non-stick coating. I buy reusable silicone liners, but disposable parchment works great too. Just make sure it’s heat-safe up to 400°F.

Experiment with Flavors

Once you’ve mastered the basics, get creative! Try:

Cinnamon sugar: Brush with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before or after cooking
Everything bagel style: Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with everything seasoning
Cheesy bacon: Top with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon in the last 2 minutes

I once made mini cinnamon rolls by cutting the biscuits in half, rolling them in cinnamon sugar, and cooking them for 6 minutes. My kids thought I was a breakfast genius.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Undercooking or Overcooking

It’s easy to pull the biscuits out too early or leave them in too long. Undercooked biscuits are doughy in the center; overcooked ones are dry and hard. The fix? Use the toothpick test and watch the color. Golden brown = done. Dark brown = too far.

Not Using Parchment or Spray

Even non-stick baskets can cause biscuits to stick, especially if they expand and touch the sides. Always use parchment or spray—it’s a small step that saves big frustration.

Forgetting to Space the Biscuits

As mentioned earlier, crowding is a no-no. Biscuits rise in the air fryer, and if they’re too close, they’ll fuse together. I once tried to fit 8 Grands! biscuits in my 5-quart basket. The result? One giant, misshapen biscuit monster. Not ideal.

Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks

Some models have hot spots (usually at the top or back). If your biscuits are browning unevenly, try rotating the basket halfway through or flipping the biscuits. You can also try a different position in the basket—sometimes the front cooks faster than the back.

Not Letting Them Cool Slightly

Biscuits are at their peak texture when they’ve cooled for 1–2 minutes. If you cut into them immediately, they can be too soft or gummy. A little patience goes a long way!

Data Table: Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Times by Type

Biscuit Type	Quantity (per batch)	Temperature	Cooking Time	Notes
Pillsbury Grands! (Original)	5–6	350°F (175°C)	7–9 minutes	Best for sandwiches; crisp outside, soft inside
Pillsbury Flaky Layers	5–6	350°F (175°C)	6–8 minutes	More delicate; watch for over-browning
Pillsbury Grands! Jr.	6–8	350°F (175°C)	5–7 minutes	Great for kids or appetizers
Homemade-style (from scratch)	4–5	350°F (175°C)	8–10 minutes	Check for doneness with toothpick

Note: Cooking times may vary by 30–60 seconds depending on your air fryer model. Always check for golden color and firm texture.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Absolutely Can

So, can you make Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer fast and easy? 100% yes. It’s one of the simplest, most satisfying ways to enjoy warm, flaky biscuits without the hassle of a full oven. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves quick, delicious food, the air fryer delivers.

I’ve made these biscuits for Sunday brunch, after-school snacks, and even as a side for soup dinners. They’re always a hit. And the best part? You don’t need to be a chef to get great results. Just follow the steps, avoid the common mistakes, and enjoy the speed and convenience of your air fryer.

Give it a try this weekend. Pop open a can, set your air fryer, and in less time than it takes to make toast, you’ll have golden, buttery biscuits ready to devour. And when your family asks, “How did you make these so fast?” you can just smile and say, “The air fryer did it.”

Happy cooking—and even happier eating!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, you can easily make Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer for a faster, crispier result. Preheat the air fryer, place the biscuits in the basket, and cook at 320°F for 8–10 minutes.

How long do Pillsbury biscuits take in the air fryer?

Pillsbury biscuits typically cook in the air fryer in 8–10 minutes at 320°F. Flip them halfway for even browning and optimal texture.

Do air fryer Pillsbury biscuits taste better than oven-baked?

Air fryer Pillsbury biscuits often turn out crispier on the outside while staying fluffy inside, making them a delicious alternative to oven baking. The circulating air speeds up cooking for a faster, golden finish.

Can you make Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer without flipping?

While flipping isn’t mandatory, flipping Pillsbury biscuits halfway ensures even browning and consistent cooking. For best results, give them a quick turn at the 4-minute mark.

What temperature do you cook Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer?

Cook Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes. This lower temperature prevents burning while achieving a golden, flaky crust.

Can you cook frozen Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen Pillsbury biscuits in the air fryer—just add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time. No need to thaw; they’ll turn out just as fluffy and golden.

Key Takeaways

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