How Long Should You Cook Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Cooking Equipment Use

When it comes to quick and delicious breakfast options, frozen biscuits are a go-to favorite for many. But what if you want to enjoy them with a perfectly crispy exterior and fluffy inside without heating up your oven? Enter the air fryer—a modern kitchen gadget that’s revolutionized how we cook frozen foods. If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer, you’re not alone. This method promises convenience and great taste, making it an appealing choice for busy mornings or last-minute snacks.

Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is not only faster than traditional baking but also yields a texture that’s delightfully crisp on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside. However, timing and temperature are key factors to ensure your biscuits come out just right. Too little time, and they may be undercooked; too long, and they risk becoming dry or burnt. Understanding the basics of air fryer cooking for frozen biscuits can help you achieve that perfect balance every time.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the ideal cooking times and temperatures, tips for best results, and how to customize your biscuits to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just starting out, mastering this simple technique will elevate your biscuit game and make breakfast—or any snack time

Cooking Times and Temperatures for Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

When cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer, the key factors to consider are temperature, time, and the size of the biscuits. Air fryers circulate hot air rapidly, which allows frozen biscuits to cook evenly and quickly, producing a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Generally, the cooking time ranges between 8 to 12 minutes at temperatures from 320°F to 350°F (160°C to 175°C).

Smaller biscuits will typically cook faster, while larger or thicker biscuits require additional time to ensure they are cooked through without burning the outside. It is also important to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before placing the biscuits inside, as this helps achieve a consistent cooking environment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Frozen Biscuits

To achieve the best results when cooking frozen biscuits in your air fryer, follow these expert steps:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Arrange the frozen biscuits in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch to allow proper air circulation.
  • Set the timer for 8 minutes initially, then check for doneness. If needed, cook for an additional 2 to 4 minutes.
  • Rotate or shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
  • Use a food thermometer or insert a toothpick into the center of a biscuit to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C) or that the toothpick comes out clean.
  • Remove the biscuits carefully and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time and Temperature Chart for Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer

Biscuits Size Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time Additional Tips
Small (1.5-inch diameter) 320°F (160°C) 8–10 minutes Check at 8 minutes; rotate basket halfway
Medium (2–3-inch diameter) 330°F (165°C) 9–11 minutes Rotate basket midway; avoid overcrowding
Large (3+ inch diameter) 350°F (175°C) 10–12 minutes Check for doneness at 10 minutes; may require flipping

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Air Fryer Biscuits

To enhance your air fryer biscuit experience, consider the following expert tips:

  • Avoid Overcrowding: Leave space between biscuits to ensure hot air circulates evenly.
  • Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Brush with Butter After Cooking: For extra flavor and a golden finish, brush melted butter on biscuits right after air frying.
  • Monitor Early: Since air fryer models vary, check biscuits a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overcooking.
  • Adjust for Altitude and Humidity: Higher altitudes may require slightly longer cooking times.

By carefully controlling these variables, you can reliably cook frozen biscuits in your air fryer to a perfect texture and taste every time.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is a quick and convenient method that yields a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The key variables to consider are cooking time, temperature, and biscuit size. These factors affect how evenly the biscuits cook and how well they rise.

For most standard frozen biscuit brands and sizes, the recommended air fryer settings are as follows:

Biscuits Size Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time Additional Tips
Small (e.g., 1.5-inch diameter) 350°F (175°C) 8–10 minutes Check at 8 minutes to avoid over-browning
Medium (e.g., 2–3-inch diameter) 350°F (175°C) 10–12 minutes Flip biscuits halfway through for even cooking
Large (over 3 inches) 350°F (175°C) 12–15 minutes Check doneness with a toothpick to ensure inside is cooked

Cooking at 350°F is generally preferred because it allows the biscuits to cook thoroughly without burning the outer crust prematurely. Temperatures higher than 375°F may cause the exterior to brown too quickly while leaving the center undercooked.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Frying Frozen Biscuits

Follow these detailed steps to achieve the best results when cooking frozen biscuits in your air fryer:

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
  • Prepare the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. If your biscuits are sticky, consider using parchment paper designed for air fryers.
  • Arrange biscuits: Place the frozen biscuits in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air circulation around each biscuit.
  • Cook and monitor: Air fry for the recommended time based on biscuit size (see table above). Halfway through cooking, pause the air fryer to flip the biscuits for even browning.
  • Check doneness: Use a toothpick or skewer to pierce the center of a biscuit. If it comes out clean, the biscuits are done. If not, continue cooking in 1–2 minute increments.
  • Cool before serving: Let the biscuits rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. This allows internal steam to finish the baking process and prevents burning your mouth.

Tips for Best Results When Cooking Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

  • Avoid stacking: Cooking biscuits stacked or touching each other can cause uneven heat distribution and soggy spots.
  • Adjust time for altitude: At higher elevations, biscuits may require slightly longer cooking times due to lower air pressure.
  • Use quality frozen biscuits: Some brands freeze better and maintain texture after air frying. Experiment to find your preferred brand.
  • Do not thaw: Cook biscuits directly from frozen for best texture and rise.
  • Monitor closely: Air fryer models vary in intensity; checking biscuits a few minutes before the minimum time prevents overcooking.
  • Optional brushing: For a golden finish, brush melted butter or egg wash on biscuits during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Dr. Emily Hartman (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). When cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer, I recommend preheating the appliance to 350°F (175°C) and cooking the biscuits for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. This timing ensures the biscuits cook evenly while achieving a golden, flaky crust without drying out the interior. It is also advisable to check for doneness around the 8-minute mark to prevent overcooking.

Chef Marcus Lee (Executive Chef and Air Fryer Specialist). From my experience, frozen biscuits should be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cooked at 360°F for 9 to 11 minutes. This method provides a balance between crispness and softness, replicating the texture of oven-baked biscuits but in less time. Always allow a minute or two of cooling after cooking to let the biscuits finish setting internally.

Sarah Nguyen (Registered Dietitian and Kitchen Appliance Consultant). For optimal results when air frying frozen biscuits, I advise setting the temperature at 350°F and cooking for 10 minutes, flipping the biscuits halfway through the cooking process. This approach promotes even heat distribution and prevents one side from becoming overly browned. Additionally, using a light spray of cooking oil can enhance the biscuit’s exterior crispness without adding excessive calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer?
Cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked inside.

Do I need to thaw frozen biscuits before air frying?
No, you can cook frozen biscuits directly in the air fryer without thawing, which helps maintain their texture and reduces preparation time.

Should I preheat the air fryer before cooking frozen biscuits?
Preheating the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes at the cooking temperature is recommended to ensure even cooking and optimal browning.

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 to allow hot air circulation for even cooking.

How do I know when frozen biscuits are done in the air fryer?
Biscuits are done when they are golden brown on the outside, fully risen, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Is it necessary to spray the air fryer basket when cooking frozen biscuits?
Lightly spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray can prevent sticking but is not always necessary if the basket has a non-stick coating.
Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient method that yields consistently crispy and golden results. Generally, frozen biscuits require about 8 to 12 minutes at a temperature of 350°F to 375°F, depending on the size and brand of the biscuit. It is important to preheat the air fryer for optimal cooking and to check the biscuits halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and prevent overcooking.

Key factors influencing the cooking time include the thickness of the biscuits and the specific air fryer model being used. For best results, arrange the biscuits in a single layer without overcrowding the basket, allowing hot air to circulate freely. Adjusting the cooking time slightly may be necessary based on personal preference for texture and color.

Overall, using an air fryer to cook frozen biscuits offers a quick, hands-off approach that maintains the biscuits’ flaky texture while reducing the need for additional oil or butter. This method is ideal for busy individuals seeking a fast and reliable way to prepare fresh-tasting biscuits with minimal cleanup.

Author Profile

Avatar
Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.