How Do You Cook Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cooking Equipment Use

There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, flaky biscuits fresh from the oven. But what if you’re short on time or just want a quick, hassle-free way to enjoy this classic treat? Enter the air fryer—a kitchen gadget that’s revolutionizing how we cook everything from crispy fries to tender chicken. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer, you’re in the right place. This method offers a fast, convenient alternative to traditional baking, delivering perfectly golden, fluffy biscuits with minimal effort.

Using an air fryer to prepare frozen biscuits not only speeds up the cooking process but also enhances texture, giving you that ideal crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and warm. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast, a snack, or a side for dinner, air frying frozen biscuits can be a game-changer. It’s a simple technique that fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles, without sacrificing flavor or quality.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer—from preparation tips to timing and temperature guidelines. Whether you’re new to air frying or looking to perfect your biscuit game, this guide will help you achieve delicious results every time.

Preparing Frozen Biscuits for the Air Fryer

Before cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer, it is essential to prepare them properly to ensure even cooking and optimal texture. Begin by removing the biscuits from their packaging and separating them carefully if they are stuck together. Avoid thawing the biscuits beforehand, as cooking them straight from frozen helps maintain their flaky layers.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the frozen biscuits in a single layer with some space between each to allow hot air to circulate evenly. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking and soggy bottoms.

If desired, brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter or an egg wash before cooking. This step enhances browning and adds a glossy finish, but it is optional depending on your preference.

Air Fryer Cooking Times and Temperatures for Frozen Biscuits

Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on the brand and size of your biscuits, as well as the specific air fryer model. However, a general guideline is to cook frozen biscuits at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Check the biscuits halfway through the cooking process and rotate the basket if necessary to promote even browning.

To help you achieve consistent results, the following table outlines recommended cooking times and temperatures based on biscuit size:

Biscuit Size Temperature (°F) Cooking Time (Minutes) Notes
Mini Biscuits 350 8-10 Check at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking
Regular Biscuits 350 10-15 Rotate basket halfway through
Large Buttermilk Biscuits 350 12-15 May require additional 1-2 minutes

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Biscuits in the Air Fryer

To enhance the quality and texture of your biscuits cooked in the air fryer, consider the following expert tips:

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures the biscuits start cooking immediately and helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Leave adequate space between biscuits for hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and preventing sogginess.
  • Use Parchment Paper or Foil: To minimize mess and sticking, you can line the basket with perforated parchment paper or foil, but ensure it does not block airflow.
  • Monitor Closely: Since air fryer models vary, check the biscuits a few minutes before the recommended cooking time to prevent burning.
  • Adjust Based on Biscuit Thickness: Thicker biscuits may require slightly longer cooking times, so be prepared to extend the time by 1-2 minutes if needed.
  • Let Biscuits Rest: After cooking, allow biscuits to rest for 1-2 minutes in the air fryer basket or on a cooling rack. This helps finish the cooking process and improves texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Even with simple recipes, some common pitfalls can affect the outcome when cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer. Avoid these mistakes to ensure consistent, delicious results:

  • Cooking Without Preheating: Skipping preheating can lead to uneven cooking and pale biscuits lacking crispness.
  • Overcrowding the Basket: Placing biscuits too close together reduces airflow and causes uneven baking.
  • Thawing Biscuits Before Cooking: Thawed biscuits may cook too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
  • Using Excessive Oil or Butter: Overdoing the fat can cause greasy biscuits and smoke inside the air fryer.
  • Ignoring Basket Rotation: Failing to rotate the basket during cooking can create hot spots, resulting in uneven browning.
  • Not Adjusting Time for Different Biscuit Sizes: Applying a one-size-fits-all time can lead to undercooked or burnt biscuits depending on their size.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can maximize your success when cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer, producing flaky, golden, and perfectly cooked results every time.

Preparing Frozen Biscuits for the Air Fryer

When cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer, proper preparation is essential to ensure even cooking and optimal texture. Unlike traditional oven baking, the air fryer circulates hot air rapidly, which can affect how the biscuits cook and brown.

Follow these guidelines before placing your frozen biscuits in the air fryer:

  • Do not thaw: Keep the biscuits frozen. Air frying frozen biscuits directly helps maintain their flaky texture and prevents sogginess.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to the recommended temperature (typically 350°F to 375°F) and allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  • Arrange biscuits properly: Place the frozen biscuits in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even air circulation.
  • Use parchment paper or foil carefully: If desired, place parchment paper with holes under the biscuits to catch drips, but ensure it does not block airflow.

Recommended Air Fryer Settings for Frozen Biscuits

Different brands and models of air fryers may vary slightly in cooking time and temperature. However, the following settings provide a reliable starting point for cooking frozen biscuits to a golden-brown finish:

Type of Biscuit Temperature (°F) Cooking Time Flip or Rotate
Standard frozen biscuit (buttermilk or plain) 350°F 10-12 minutes Flip halfway through (5-6 minutes)
Large frozen biscuits or flaky biscuits 350°F 12-15 minutes Flip halfway through (6-7 minutes)
Frozen biscuit dough rolls (uncooked) 375°F 8-10 minutes No flip required

Adjust time slightly based on your air fryer’s wattage and biscuit brand. Always check for a golden-brown crust and fully cooked interior before removing.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

To cook frozen biscuits perfectly in your air fryer, follow these detailed steps:

  1. Preheat: Turn on the air fryer and preheat it to the recommended temperature, usually 350°F.
  2. Arrange Biscuits: Place frozen biscuits in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave space between each biscuit for proper air flow.
  3. Start Cooking: Insert the basket and set the timer according to the recommended cooking time.
  4. Flip or Rotate: For standard biscuits, flip or rotate them halfway through the cooking cycle to ensure even browning.
  5. Check Doneness: When the timer goes off, check the biscuits for a golden crust and internal doneness by inserting a toothpick or cutting one open.
  6. Additional Cooking: If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve desired crispiness.
  7. Serve: Remove the biscuits carefully with tongs or a spatula. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Enhancing Biscuit Texture and Flavor

Air frying frozen biscuits can yield excellent results with a few expert tips:

  • Brush with melted butter: For a richer flavor and shinier crust, lightly brush the biscuits with melted butter before or immediately after cooking.
  • Use a light spray of oil: Spraying a small amount of cooking oil on the biscuits prior to air frying can help create a crispier exterior.
  • Adjust for altitude: If cooking at higher elevations, slightly increase cooking time or temperature to compensate for lower air pressure.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Cooking too many biscuits at once can cause uneven cooking and soggy spots due to restricted airflow.
  • Experiment with flavors: Try sprinkling herbs like rosemary or garlic powder on the biscuits before air frying for a savory twist.

Professional Insights on Cooking Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Jessica Turner (Culinary Technologist, Kitchen Innovations Lab). When cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer, it is essential to preheat the appliance to around 350°F to ensure even cooking. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation crisps the exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Typically, a cooking time of 8 to 10 minutes yields optimal results, but it’s important to check for a golden-brown finish to avoid overcooking.

Dr. Marcus Lee (Food Scientist, National Institute of Culinary Arts). The air fryer is an excellent tool for cooking frozen biscuits because it provides consistent heat and reduces cooking time compared to traditional ovens. For best texture, arrange the biscuits in a single layer without overcrowding to allow proper airflow. Additionally, using a light spray of oil can enhance browning without compromising the biscuit’s texture.

Emily Rodriguez (Executive Chef and Culinary Instructor, FreshStart Cooking Academy). From a professional chef’s perspective, cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is both convenient and efficient. It is crucial to monitor the biscuits closely during the last few minutes of cooking, as air fryers vary in power. Rotating the basket halfway through the cooking process ensures even heat distribution and prevents uneven browning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I cook frozen biscuits directly in the air fryer without thawing?
Yes, you can cook frozen biscuits directly in the air fryer without thawing. Simply place them in the basket and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What is the recommended temperature for cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer?
Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results when cooking frozen biscuits.

How long should frozen biscuits be cooked in the air fryer?
Cook frozen biscuits for 8 to 12 minutes, checking for a golden-brown color and a fully cooked interior.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking frozen biscuits?
Preheating the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes is recommended to ensure even cooking of frozen biscuits.

Should I flip the biscuits halfway through cooking?
Flipping the biscuits halfway through the cooking process promotes even browning and a crisp texture on all sides.

Can I cook multiple frozen biscuits at once in the air fryer?
Yes, but avoid overcrowding the basket. Arrange biscuits in a single layer with space between them for proper air circulation.
Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient method that yields deliciously golden and fluffy results. By preheating the air fryer and arranging the biscuits with adequate space, you ensure even cooking and optimal texture. Typically, cooking times range from 8 to 12 minutes at around 350°F (175°C), but it is important to monitor the biscuits closely to prevent overcooking or burning.

One of the key advantages of using an air fryer for frozen biscuits is the reduced cooking time compared to traditional oven methods, along with the ability to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. Additionally, the air fryer requires little to no added oil, making it a healthier option for preparing biscuits. It is also important to avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation.

In summary, mastering the technique of cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer enhances convenience without compromising quality. Following the recommended temperature and time guidelines, along with proper spacing, will result in perfectly cooked biscuits suitable for any meal or occasion. This method offers a practical solution for quick, tasty baked goods with minimal effort.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.