How to Make Can Biscuits in Air Fryer Perfect Every Time

Transform store-bought can biscuits into golden, flaky perfection in under 15 minutes using your air fryer—no preheating required. Simply place biscuits in a single layer, spray with oil, and air fry at 330°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. This foolproof method delivers consistent, bakery-quality results every time with minimal cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Preheat your air fryer to 320°F for even, golden results every time.
• Use parchment liners to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup effortlessly.
• Space biscuits properly to allow air circulation and uniform puffing.
• Cook in batches if needed—overcrowding leads to uneven baking.
• Check at 8 minutes to avoid over-browning; adjust time as needed.
• Brush with butter post-bake for a richer, flakier finish.

Why Air Fryer Can Biscuits Are a Game Changer

Let me set the scene: It’s a Sunday morning, the coffee’s brewing, and the smell of something warm and buttery is drifting through the kitchen. You open the fridge, spot a can of refrigerated biscuits, and think, “Why not try the air fryer?” That’s exactly how I discovered how to make can biscuits in an air fryer—and let me tell you, it was love at first bite.

Air fryer can biscuits are fast, fluffy, and perfectly golden with a crisp exterior that’s hard to achieve in a conventional oven. No more soggy bottoms or uneven browning. And the best part? You don’t need to be a baking pro. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone just trying to get breakfast on the table without setting off the smoke alarm, this method delivers consistent results with minimal effort.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Can Biscuits?

You might be wondering: “Why bother with the air fryer when I’ve always baked them in the oven?” Great question. I’ve tried both, and the air fryer wins in almost every category—especially when it comes to speed, texture, and convenience.

Faster Cooking Time

Traditional oven baking takes 10–12 minutes at 425°F (220°C). In an air fryer, you’re looking at 7–9 minutes at a slightly lower temperature. That 3–5 minute difference might not sound like much, but when you’re juggling kids, pets, or a work call, it’s a big deal. Plus, the air fryer heats up instantly—no preheating required. That means from can to table in under 15 minutes.

Superior Texture and Crispness

Air fryers use rapid convection heat, which circulates hot air around the food. This creates a beautiful, even crust on the biscuits. Unlike ovens, where heat comes from the bottom or top, the air fryer crisps all sides. The result? A golden, slightly flaky exterior with a soft, pillowy interior. I’ve had oven-baked biscuits come out pale and doughy—never with the air fryer.

Energy Efficiency and Space-Saving

Air fryers use less energy than full-sized ovens. They also take up less counter space, making them ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RV life. And since they’re so compact, they heat up faster and cool down quicker—no lingering kitchen heat on hot summer days.

Less Mess, Easier Cleanup

No baking sheet to scrub. No parchment paper to discard. Just a non-stick basket (or a quick spray) and a wipe-down after use. I once spilled biscuit dough on my oven rack—never again. The air fryer basket is removable and dishwasher-safe (in most models), making cleanup a breeze.

What You Need: Tools and Ingredients

Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have everything you need. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy tools or specialty ingredients—just a few everyday items.

Essential Equipment

• Air fryer (any model: basket-style, oven-style, or dual-drawer). I use a 5.8-quart Ninja Foodi, but even smaller 3.5-quart models work.
• Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper liners. I prefer spray for even coating, but liners prevent sticking if you’re nervous about cleanup.
• Tongs or a fork for flipping (optional but helpful).
• Small bowl for brushing with butter (optional, but highly recommended).

Ingredients

• 1 can of refrigerated biscuits (8-count, like Pillsbury Grands, Homestyle, or Flaky). I’ve tried store brands—they work fine, but I notice Pillsbury holds its shape better.
• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing and flavor). I use a mix: spray for the basket, melted butter for brushing.
• Optional add-ins: garlic powder, dried herbs, cinnamon sugar, shredded cheese. Get creative!

Pro Tip: Choose the Right Biscuit

Not all canned biscuits are created equal. For air frying, go for “Grands” or “Jumbo” sizes. They’re thicker, so they hold up better to high heat. The smaller “Buttermilk” or “Flaky” biscuits cook faster but can dry out if overcooked. I once used mini biscuits and had to pull them out at 5 minutes—too risky for my taste. Stick with the standard 8-count cans for best results.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Can Biscuits in Air Fryer

Now for the fun part: the actual process. I’ve tested this method across 5 different air fryer models and 3 brands of biscuits. Here’s the foolproof way to get golden, fluffy biscuits every single time.

Step 1: Preheat (Optional but Recommended)

While some air fryers don’t require preheating, I’ve found it helps with even cooking. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it run for 2–3 minutes. This ensures the basket is warm when the biscuits go in, reducing the chance of sticking and promoting a better rise.

Note: If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step. Just add 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

Step 2: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly coat the basket with non-stick cooking spray. I use avocado oil spray—it’s high smoke point and doesn’t leave a residue. Alternatively, place a parchment paper liner in the basket. Make sure it doesn’t block the air vents. If using liners, cut them to fit so they don’t curl up during cooking.

Pro tip: Don’t use too much oil. Excess can pool and make the bottoms soggy.

Step 3: Arrange the Biscuits

Pop open the can and separate the biscuits. Place them in the basket in a single layer, leaving about ½ inch between each. Don’t overcrowd! Overlapping biscuits steam instead of crisp. I fit 4 biscuits in my 5.8-quart model. For smaller baskets, do 3 or even 2 at a time.

Real talk: I once tried to cook all 8 biscuits at once. They stuck together and cooked unevenly. Lesson learned: patience pays off.

Step 4: Cook in Batches (If Needed)

Cook the first batch at 350°F (175°C) for 7–8 minutes. After 4 minutes, open the basket and flip each biscuit using tongs or a fork. This ensures even browning on all sides. If you skip flipping, the bottoms may burn while the tops stay pale.

After 7 minutes, check for doneness: the tops should be golden brown, and the centers should feel firm but springy. If needed, add 1–2 more minutes (but keep a close eye—overcooking dries them out).

Step 5: Repeat and Serve

Remove the cooked biscuits and repeat with the remaining batch. I like to keep the first batch warm in a 200°F oven or on a plate covered with a towel.

Optional: Brush warm biscuits with melted butter, garlic butter, or honey. I add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for contrast—game-changer!

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuits

Even the best method can use a few tweaks. After dozens of batches, here are my go-to tricks for flawless air fryer biscuits.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Air circulation is key. Biscuits need space to expand and crisp. If they’re touching, they’ll steam and become dense. Think of it like pancakes—give them room to breathe.

Flip for Even Browning

I know it’s tempting to just set it and forget it. But flipping halfway ensures both sides get golden and crispy. I use silicone-tipped tongs to avoid scratching the basket.

Adjust Time Based on Your Air Fryer

Every air fryer runs a little differently. My Ninja runs hot, so I cook at 340°F instead of 350°F. If you notice dark edges, reduce the temp by 10°F next time. If they’re pale, increase it by 10°F or add 1–2 minutes.

Use Butter for Flavor and Shine

A quick brush of melted butter (salted or unsalted) after cooking adds richness and a beautiful sheen. For extra flavor, mix in garlic powder, rosemary, or cinnamon sugar.

Try These Flavor Upgrades

• Cheesy garlic biscuits: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and garlic powder on top before cooking.
• Cinnamon sugar: Mix 1 tbsp cinnamon + 2 tbsp sugar. Roll cooked biscuits in it.
• Everything bagel style: Brush with butter, then sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.

Store and Reheat Like a Pro

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 325°F for 2–3 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh. Avoid the microwave—it makes them rubbery.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even the best of us make mistakes. Here’s what I’ve learned the hard way—so you don’t have to.

Mistake #1: Not Flipping the Biscuits

I once skipped flipping because I was distracted by a phone call. Result? The bottoms were dark brown, the tops were pale, and the texture was uneven. Flipping is non-negotiable for air fryer biscuits.

Mistake #2: Using Too Much Oil

A light spray is all you need. I once used olive oil and it pooled at the bottom, making the biscuits soggy. Use a high-smoke-point oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed) and spray lightly.

Mistake #3: Overcooking

Biscuits cook fast. I’ve pulled them out at 9 minutes, thinking “just a little longer,” only to find them dry and tough. Set a timer and check early. They’re done when golden and springy—not hard.

Mistake #4: Using the Wrong Biscuit Type

Mini or thin biscuits can dry out. Stick with Grands or Homestyle for the best texture. I once used “Buttermilk Flaky” and they were great, but needed closer monitoring.

Mistake #5: Not Letting the Basket Cool Between Batches

If you’re cooking multiple batches, the basket gets hot. Let it cool for 1–2 minutes between batches to prevent over-browning. Or, use a second liner if you’re in a rush.

Cooking Time and Temperature Guide (Data Table)

Biscuit Type	Temp (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
Pillsbury Grands	350	7–8	Flip at 4 min. Brush with butter after.
Pillsbury Homestyle	340	8–9	Slightly denser; needs extra time.
Store Brand (Jumbo)	350	7–8	Check at 7 min—some brown faster.
Mini or Thin Biscuits	340	5–6	Do not overcrowd. Watch closely.
Cheesy/Garlic Topped	350	8–9	Cheese may melt—cover with foil if browning too fast.

Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Make Can Biscuits in Air Fryer

Making can biscuits in an air fryer isn’t just a shortcut—it’s a revelation. You get fluffy, golden, restaurant-quality biscuits in under 15 minutes, with minimal effort and cleanup. No more waiting for the oven to preheat, no more uneven browning, and no more soggy bottoms.

Whether you’re serving them with scrambled eggs, using them as a base for mini breakfast sandwiches, or dunking them in gravy, air fryer biscuits deliver consistent results every time. I’ve even used them for dessert—split in half, filled with jam, and dusted with powdered sugar. Delicious.

So next time you reach for that can of biscuits, give the air fryer a try. Follow the steps, use the tips, and don’t be afraid to experiment. You might just find it becomes your new go-to method. After all, the best kitchen hacks are the ones that make life simpler—and tastier. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To avoid burning, preheat your air fryer to 320°F (not higher), and cook the biscuits for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway. The lower temperature ensures even browning without overcooking the edges.

Can you make can biscuits in an air fryer without overlapping?

Yes! Leave at least 1 inch of space between each biscuit to allow proper air circulation. Overlapping causes uneven cooking and may leave some biscuits underdone in the center.

What’s the best way to get golden-brown can biscuits in the air fryer?

Lightly brush the tops with melted butter or egg wash before cooking, and air fry at 320°F for 6-8 minutes. This enhances browning while keeping the inside fluffy.

How long should you cook can biscuits in an air fryer for perfect results?

Cook for 5-8 minutes, depending on your air fryer model and biscuit size. Check at 5 minutes—they’re done when golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

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

Yes, preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures consistent cooking and prevents the biscuits from sticking. A hot basket helps them rise evenly and develop a crisp exterior.

Can you make flaky layers in can biscuits using an air fryer?

Absolutely! Separate the biscuit dough into layers before cooking and spray lightly with oil. The air fryer’s rapid heat seals in steam, creating flaky, oven-quality results.