How to Cook Canned Biscuits in an Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Cooking canned biscuits in an air fryer delivers golden, flaky results in under 10 minutes—no preheating required. Simply arrange the biscuits in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and air fry at 330°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. This foolproof method ensures perfect texture every time, with minimal cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Preheat your air fryer to ensure even, golden-brown biscuits every time.
• Space biscuits properly to allow hot air circulation and prevent sticking.
• Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking.
• Check at 8 minutes to prevent over-browning; adjust time as needed.
• Use parchment liners for easy cleanup and to keep biscuits from sticking.
• Brush with butter post-cook for richer flavor and a glossy finish.

The Magic of Air Fryer Canned Biscuits: A Game-Changing Hack

Let’s be honest—some days, we just want warm, flaky biscuits without the fuss of measuring flour, cutting butter, or waiting for dough to rise. That’s where canned biscuits swoop in like a kitchen superhero. But what if I told you there’s a way to make them even *better*? Enter the air fryer: your new secret weapon for perfectly golden, puffed-up canned biscuits in under 15 minutes. No soggy bottoms, no burnt edges—just pure, buttery joy.

I’ll never forget the first time I tried cooking canned biscuits in my air fryer. I was skeptical, to say the least. Would they dry out? Stick to the basket? Explode into a doughy mess? But after one batch, I was hooked. The outside was crisp and golden, the inside tender and fluffy—like something from a bakery, not a can. And the best part? No oven preheating, no flipping, and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who appreciates a shortcut that *actually* works, this method is about to become your go-to. Let’s dive into how to cook canned biscuits in an air fryer perfectly every time.

Why the Air Fryer Is the Best Way to Cook Canned Biscuits

You might be wondering: why use an air fryer when the package says to bake? The answer is simple: **control, speed, and results**. Air fryers circulate hot air around food using convection technology, which means even browning and consistent cooking. Unlike ovens, which can have hot spots or uneven temperatures, air fryers deliver a uniform heat that’s ideal for delicate items like canned biscuits.

Faster Than Oven Baking

Traditional oven baking takes 10–12 minutes *plus* 10–15 minutes of preheating. That’s nearly half an hour before you even taste a biscuit. With an air fryer, preheating takes just 3–5 minutes, and cooking time is usually 8–10 minutes. You’ll have hot, fresh biscuits on the table in under 15 minutes flat—perfect for a rushed breakfast or a last-minute side for soup.

Better Texture and Crispness

Oven-baked canned biscuits often come out pale and soft, especially on the bottom. But in an air fryer, the rapid airflow crisps the exterior while keeping the inside light and airy. You get that satisfying *crack* when you break one open—something that’s hard to achieve in a standard oven. Plus, the individual compartments in the biscuit can help them rise more evenly when spaced properly in the basket.

Energy Efficiency and Space Saving

Air fryers use less electricity than full-sized ovens. If you’re cooking just 2–4 biscuits, it makes no sense to heat an entire oven. The air fryer heats up quickly and uses less energy, making it a greener choice. It’s also great for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RV living where oven space is limited.

No More Soggy Bottoms

Ever pulled a batch of oven biscuits only to find the bottoms stuck to the pan or steamed from excess moisture? The air fryer’s perforated basket allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess. Just make sure you use the right setup (more on that later), and you’ll avoid this common pitfall.

What You’ll Need: Equipment and Ingredients

Before we start, let’s gather everything. The beauty of this method is that you probably already have most of it in your kitchen.

Essential Equipment

• Air fryer: Any model works—basket-style (like Ninja, Instant Vortex) or oven-style (like Cosori, Breville). Just ensure the biscuits fit with space to expand.
• Non-stick cooking spray or oil mister: Prevents sticking and promotes browning.
• Parchment paper (air fryer-safe): Optional, but helps with cleanup and prevents sticking, especially with older air fryers.
• Tongs or silicone-tipped utensils: For removing biscuits without scratching the non-stick coating.
• Cooling rack: Lets biscuits cool evenly without getting steamy on the bottom.

Ingredients

• One can of refrigerated biscuits: Any brand (Pillsbury, Great Value, Trader Joe’s, etc.). Regular, buttermilk, or flaky layers all work.
• Optional add-ons:
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or Italian seasoning (for savory twist)
  • Cinnamon sugar (for sweet glaze)
  • Grated cheddar cheese (for cheesy biscuits)

Pro tip: If you’re using parchment paper, cut it to fit your basket and poke a few holes in it to allow airflow. Some air fryer models come with reusable silicone liners—those are great, too!

Choosing the Right Canned Biscuits

Not all canned biscuits are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Regular vs. Flaky: Flaky biscuits have more layers and will puff up higher. They’re great for sandwiches or gravy. Regular biscuits are denser and ideal for dipping.
• Size matters: Most standard cans have 8 biscuits. If you’re cooking fewer, save the rest in the fridge (sealed in a zip-top bag) for up to 2 days.
• Check the expiration date: Old biscuits may not rise well, even in an air fryer.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Canned Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—the actual process. I’ll walk you through each step with tips to avoid common mistakes.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to **350°F (175°C)** and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. This is crucial! Cold air fryers can cause uneven cooking. While it heats, prep your biscuits.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits

Open the can and separate the biscuits. Gently pull them apart—don’t force them, or they’ll stick. If they’re stuck, run a butter knife around the edges.

Optional: For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder, cinnamon sugar, or cheese. This adds a delicious crust and prevents dryness.

Step 3: Arrange in the Basket

Place biscuits in the air fryer basket in a **single layer**, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each. They expand during cooking! Overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping.

Pro tip: If your basket is small, cook in batches. Don’t stack biscuits—they’ll stick together and cook unevenly.

If using parchment, line the basket first. Lightly spray the basket or parchment with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook and Monitor

Cook at **350°F for 8–10 minutes**. Here’s the timeline:

• 0–4 minutes: Biscuits start rising. The air fryer will be loud—this is normal.
• 4–7 minutes: Edges begin to brown. You might hear slight popping as steam escapes.
• 7–10 minutes: Tops turn golden. Use tongs to gently peek under one biscuit—it should lift easily.

Note: Cooking time varies by brand and air fryer model. Pillsbury tends to cook faster than store brands. Always start checking at 8 minutes.

Step 5: Flip (Optional but Recommended)

At the 6-minute mark, flip each biscuit using tongs. This ensures even browning on both sides. Some air fryers have a “shake” function—use it! But be gentle to avoid deflating.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

A perfectly cooked air fryer biscuit should:

• Be golden brown on top and bottom
• Feel firm to the touch (not squishy)
• Have a hollow sound when tapped
• Have risen at least 1.5x its original height

If undercooked, return to the air fryer for 1–2 more minutes. Overcooked biscuits will be dry and tough—so don’t walk away!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Transfer biscuits to a cooling rack for 2–3 minutes. This keeps the bottoms crisp. Serve immediately with butter, jam, honey, or gravy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Even with the perfect method, small tweaks can make a big difference. Here are my hard-earned secrets.

Don’t Skip the Preheat

I know it’s tempting to skip preheating, but it’s the #1 reason for uneven cooking. Cold air fryers take longer to reach temperature, so biscuits cook slower on the outside while the inside stays doughy. Preheat = consistent results.

Use the Right Oil

Not all oils are equal. Use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado, canola, or grapeseed. Olive oil can smoke and leave a bitter taste. A light spray is all you need—too much oil makes biscuits greasy.

Adjust for Your Air Fryer

Air fryers vary. My Ninja Foodi cooks faster than my Cosori. Test with one biscuit first to gauge timing. If it browns too fast, reduce temperature to 330°F. If it’s pale, increase to 360°F.

Save Leftovers (Yes, You Can!)

Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 3–4 minutes. They’ll taste almost as fresh as when they came out. Avoid microwaving—it makes them rubbery.

Get Creative with Flavors

Here are some fun variations:

• Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Brush with garlic butter, add shredded cheddar before cooking.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle tops with cinnamon sugar before air frying.
• Breakfast Sandwiches: Split biscuits, add scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage. Air fry the whole sandwich for 2 minutes to melt cheese.
• Biscuit Pizzas: Top with pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Air fry 5–6 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Biscuits sticking? Use more oil or parchment paper. Older air fryers may need a light seasoning.
• Uneven browning? Flip halfway or rotate the basket (if your model allows).
• Not rising? Check the can’s expiration date. Old dough won’t rise well.
• Dry texture? Don’t overcook! 10 minutes max. Add butter before cooking for moisture.

Air Fryer Biscuit Cooking Time and Temperature Guide

Below is a handy reference table for different biscuit types and air fryer models. Use this as a starting point, then adjust based on your results.

Biscuit Type	Air Fryer Model (Basket Size)	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Pillsbury Grands (Regular)	3.5–5 qt basket	350°F	8–10 min	Flip at 6 min; space 1″ apart
Pillsbury Flaky Layers	5–6 qt basket	350°F	9–11 min	May need extra space; watch for over-browning
Store Brand (Buttermilk)	4 qt basket	330°F	10–12 min	Lower temp prevents burning; check at 10 min
Mini Biscuits (e.g., Pillsbury Mini)	3–4 qt basket	350°F	6–7 min	No flip needed; cook in single layer
Frozen Canned Biscuits (thawed)	Any size	340°F	10–12 min	Thaw 30 min at room temp first; add 2 min to time
Cheese-Stuffed Biscuits	5+ qt basket	350°F	10–12 min	Watch for cheese leakage; place on parchment

Remember: These are guidelines. Always check for doneness by color and texture. When in doubt, err on the side of undercooking—you can always add time.

Why This Method Works—And When It Might Not

Let’s be real: no cooking method is perfect for every situation. Here’s the honest truth about air fryer canned biscuits.

The Pros

• Speed: 12–15 minutes from start to finish.
• Texture: Crispy outside, fluffy inside—something hard to achieve in ovens.
• Energy use: Uses 30–50% less energy than an oven.
• Versatility: Works with sweet, savory, stuffed, or plain biscuits.
• Clean-up: Just wipe the basket or toss the parchment.

The Limitations

• Batch size: Most air fryers hold 4–6 biscuits. For 8+ servings, use the oven.
• Large biscuits: Jumbo or family-sized biscuits may not fit. Stick to standard size.
• Humidity: In very humid climates, biscuits may take longer to crisp. Preheat longer (5 min).
• Older air fryers: Some models lack even airflow. Rotate the basket if needed.

When to use the oven instead: If you’re cooking a full can (8 biscuits) and have a large air fryer (8+ qt), you *can* do it. But for most households, cooking in two batches in a smaller air fryer yields better results. The oven is still great for large gatherings—just don’t expect the same crispness.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Biscuit Hack

Learning how to cook canned biscuits in an air fryer isn’t just about convenience—it’s about elevating a humble convenience food into something truly special. I’ve used this method for everything: quick breakfasts, holiday sides, midnight snacks, and even impromptu brunches with friends. Every time, people ask, “How did you make these? They’re *so* good!”

The key is consistency. Preheat, space properly, monitor closely, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Whether you’re adding cheese, herbs, or a sweet glaze, the air fryer handles it all with ease. And the best part? You’ll never have to wait for your oven again.

So next time you’re staring at a can of biscuits, reach for your air fryer instead. In under 15 minutes, you’ll have golden, flaky, bakery-worthy results—with less mess, less energy, and more flavor. That’s a win in my book. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cook canned biscuits in an air fryer without burning them?

To cook canned biscuits in an air fryer without burning, preheat the air fryer to 325°F (160°C) and spray the basket with oil. Arrange biscuits in a single layer, leaving space between them, and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them, as air fryer models vary in intensity.

What temperature should I use to air fry canned biscuits?

The ideal temperature to air fry canned biscuits is 325°F (160°C). This ensures even browning and a fluffy interior without overcooking the exterior. Adjust time slightly if your air fryer runs hot or cool.

Can you cook canned biscuits in an air fryer from frozen?

Yes, you can cook canned biscuits in an air fryer from frozen. Increase cooking time to 10–12 minutes at 325°F (160°C), flipping halfway. Check for a golden crust and fully cooked center before serving.

How long do you air fry canned biscuits for the best texture?

For the best texture, air fry canned biscuits for 6–8 minutes at 325°F (160°C). Flip them halfway to ensure even browning and a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer for canned biscuits?

Yes, preheating your air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 325°F (160°C) helps achieve consistent results. This ensures the biscuits start cooking immediately, promoting even rise and texture.

Can I add toppings to canned biscuits in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Add toppings like cheese, garlic butter, or cinnamon sugar after the first 4 minutes of cooking. This prevents burning and ensures toppings melt or crisp perfectly during the remaining cook time.