Frozen Biscuits in the Air Fryer

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Air fryers have become a staple in many kitchens, transforming the way we prepare quick snacks and weeknight sides. If you’ve ever popped frozen biscuits into the oven and waited impatiently for them to bake, you’ll appreciate the convenience—and the reliable results—the air fryer offers. Cooking frozen biscuits in the air fryer lets you enjoy golden, fluffy biscuits with minimal effort and in less time. Whether you’re planning an easy breakfast, want to serve warm bread with dinner, or need a simple snack, this guide will show you how to make frozen biscuits in the air fryer, from start to finish.

Why Air Fry Frozen Biscuits?

Using the air fryer for frozen biscuits saves you time. Unlike conventional ovens, which require preheating, the air fryer heats up fast and cooks frozen goods evenly. Hot air circulates around each biscuit, creating a crispy outer layer and a tender interior. This quick method eliminates common pitfalls like burnt bottoms or doughy insides.

Air fryers also fit smaller batches, which makes them ideal if you only need a few biscuits at a time. There’s less cleanup and no need to heat the whole kitchen. The result? Biscuits that rival homemade ones in texture but are ready in a fraction of the time.

Choosing the Right Frozen Biscuits

Supermarkets stock a variety of frozen biscuits—some classic, others layered or buttermilk-rich. Popular brands include Pillsbury, Mary B’s, and generic store brands. Air fryers work with nearly any type of frozen biscuit, including homestyle, flaky, buttermilk, and even gluten-free options.

• Layered Biscuits: Separate into halves before air frying for extra crispiness.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: These tend to rise more and hold a soft texture.
• Mini Biscuits: Reduce cooking time slightly due to their smaller size.

Check the package size and thickness. Thicker or jumbo biscuits may require a longer cooking time.

Ingredients and Tools

• Frozen biscuits (any variety, straight from the freezer)
• Neutral oil spray (like canola or avocado oil)
• Air fryer (basket or tray style)
• Tongs or spatula

Optional add-ons:
– Butter, olive oil, honey, or flavored spreads for serving

Quick Overview Table

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 340°F. Preheating isn’t always necessary, but it helps the biscuits cook evenly and ensures a crisp exterior. Allow it to run empty for about 2 minutes.

2. Prepare the Basket

Lightly spritz the basket or tray with neutral oil spray. This step helps prevent sticking and ensures the biscuits’ bottoms get a golden finish. Avoid using nonstick sprays with additives, as they may damage the air fryer’s coating.

3. Arrange the Biscuits

Place frozen biscuits in a single layer. Leave at least half an inch between each one. Biscuits need room to expand and cook evenly. For a standard air fryer basket, 4–6 biscuits usually fit best. Avoid piling or stacking.

4. Air Fry

Air fry at 340°F for 8 minutes. At the halfway mark, check the biscuits. Using tongs or a spatula, flip each biscuit. This step helps both sides crisp up evenly. Rotate positions if your air fryer cooks unevenly.

Continue cooking for another 3–5 minutes. Thicker biscuits or larger sizes may need a minute or two more. Start checking around the 10-minute mark. The tops should be light golden brown, and an inserted toothpick should come out clean.

5. Serve

When the biscuits are golden and cooked through, remove them carefully—they’ll be hot and delicate. Serve them right away. If you’re making a batch for later, keep them loosely covered with a towel to hold warmth.

Mistake-Proof Tips

Air fryer biscuits are simple, but a few details make a difference. Here’s how you can get the best results every time:

• Space is key: Crowding leads to uneven baking. Only cook what fits comfortably in the basket.
• No parchment required: Air flow creates browning. Baking directly on the basket works best.
• Check early: Every air fryer differs. Start checking for doneness at 10 minutes.
• Customize temperature: If your biscuits brown too quickly, lower the temperature to 325°F. If they remain pale, increase to 350°F for the last 2 minutes.
• For softer tops: Brush the biscuits with melted butter just before the final minute. For extra color, try a swipe of milk or egg wash.

Flavor Upgrades

Frozen biscuits taste good as is, but small touches can improve them further:

• Sweet finishes: Brush with butter and dust with cinnamon sugar for a dessert-like treat.
• Savory flavors: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or freshly grated cheese before the last few minutes.
• Breakfast sandwich base: Slice cooked biscuits and layer in scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage or bacon.

Storing and Reheating Biscuits

Have leftover biscuits? Storing them correctly extends freshness.

• Storage: Let the biscuits cool fully. Place in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two days.
• Freezing cooked biscuits: Cool them completely. Wrap tightly, then freeze for up to one month.
• To reheat: Place biscuits back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. This method revives the crisp exterior. Microwaving works for speed, but biscuits will soften.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Biscuits Undercooked Inside

If biscuits are golden but doughy in the center, reduce the air fryer temperature by 10–15 degrees and cook for an extra 2–3 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning if necessary.

Biscuits Too Brown

If biscuits brown too quickly, especially on top, try lowering the rack in oven-style air fryers or decrease the heat slightly next time.

Sticking to Basket

If you skipped oiling the basket, biscuits may stick. Allow biscuits to cool for one minute, then gently loosen with a spatula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cook More Than One Batch?

Yes, but heat the air fryer between batches for even results. Repeat the process, watching later batches as they may cook a bit faster.

Do I Need to Thaw Frozen Biscuits First?

No need. Air fry straight from the freezer for convenience and best texture.

Can I Use Homemade Frozen Biscuits?

Absolutely. Cut raw biscuits, freeze on a tray, then store in bags. Cook them from frozen the same way, adding 1–2 minutes if needed.

Serving Ideas

Use air fryer biscuits as more than just a breakfast side:

• Top with sausage gravy for a quick biscuits and gravy dish.
• Layer with ham and cheese for mini sandwiches.
• Serve warm with honey or fruit preserves as an afternoon snack.

With a few simple steps and minimal cleanup, you’ll have perfectly cooked frozen biscuits—crispy outside, tender inside—using your air fryer. Once you try this method, it’s hard to go back to the oven. Whether you want a quick snack, an easy breakfast, or the fixings for a hearty meal, mastering frozen biscuits in the air fryer is a game-changer.