How Do You Cook Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByCynthia Crase 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 don’t want to heat up your entire kitchen? Enter the air fryer—a modern 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 for a delightful surprise. This method promises quick, easy, and perfectly baked biscuits with minimal fuss.

Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer offers a convenient alternative to traditional baking. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air ensures that biscuits cook evenly, developing a golden-brown crust while remaining soft and fluffy inside. This technique is especially handy for busy mornings, last-minute snacks, or whenever you crave that warm, buttery goodness without the wait.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the benefits of using an air fryer for frozen biscuits, share tips to achieve the best results, and guide you through the simple steps to enjoy bakery-style biscuits in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or a curious beginner, this guide will have you savoring delicious biscuits in no time.

Preparing Frozen Biscuits for Air Frying

Before placing frozen biscuits in the air fryer, it is essential to prepare them correctly to ensure even cooking and optimal texture. First, remove the biscuits from their packaging and separate them if they are stuck together. Avoid thawing the biscuits before air frying, as cooking them from frozen helps maintain their flaky layers and prevents sogginess.

If desired, lightly spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. However, many air fryer baskets have non-stick coatings that often negate the need for additional grease.

For a richer flavor and golden appearance, consider brushing the tops of the frozen biscuits lightly with melted butter or an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water). This step is optional but enhances the final presentation and taste.

Optimal Air Fryer Settings for Frozen Biscuits

Air fryer settings can vary by model, but there are general guidelines to follow when cooking frozen biscuits. The typical temperature range is between 325°F and 375°F (163°C to 190°C), with cooking times generally spanning 8 to 12 minutes. Cooking at too high a temperature may burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, so a moderate heat is preferred.

To ensure even cooking, arrange the biscuits in a single layer within the air fryer basket, leaving space around each biscuit for hot air circulation. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking and less crispiness.

It is recommended to check the biscuits halfway through the cooking time, gently flipping them if necessary to promote uniform browning. Some air fryers require shaking or rotating the basket to achieve the best results.

Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time Notes
325°F (163°C) 10-12 minutes Best for thicker biscuits; check for doneness at 10 min
350°F (177°C) 8-10 minutes Common setting for most frozen biscuits; crispy outside
375°F (190°C) 7-9 minutes Faster cooking; monitor closely to prevent burning

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Biscuits in the Air Fryer

Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer can yield excellent results when following these expert tips:

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures the air fryer is at the correct temperature before adding biscuits, promoting even cooking from the start.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Place biscuits with enough space between them to allow hot air to circulate freely around each biscuit, leading to crispier exteriors.
  • Check Early and Often: Begin checking the biscuits a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to prevent overcooking, especially with smaller or thinner biscuits.
  • Use a Thermometer: For best results, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of biscuits; they should reach approximately 200°F (93°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
  • Brush with Butter After Cooking: For an extra buttery finish, brush the biscuits with melted butter immediately after air frying.

Adjusting Cooking for Different Biscuit Types

Frozen biscuits come in various types, such as flaky layered biscuits, buttermilk biscuits, or drop biscuits, and each may require slight adjustments in air fryer cooking times or temperatures.

  • Flaky Layered Biscuits: These benefit from moderate temperatures (around 350°F) and longer cooking times to allow the layers to fully cook and separate.
  • Buttermilk Biscuits: Typically fluffier and denser, these may require slightly lower temperatures or additional cooking time to avoid undercooked centers.
  • Drop Biscuits: Smaller and more delicate, drop biscuits cook faster and should be monitored closely to prevent burning.

Below is a guideline for adjusting cooking parameters based on biscuit type:

Biscuit Type Temperature Cooking Time Additional Tips
Flaky Layered 350°F (177°C) 10-12 minutes Flip halfway through; brush with butter after cooking
Buttermilk 325°F (163°C) 12-14 minutes Check internal temperature; avoid high heat
Drop Biscuits 350°F (177°C) 7-9 minutes Check frequently; smaller size cooks faster

Preparing Frozen Biscuits for Air Frying

To achieve perfectly cooked frozen biscuits in an air fryer, proper preparation is essential. Begin by removing the biscuits from the freezer and separating them carefully if they are in a stacked or connected form. There is no need to thaw the biscuits before cooking; air frying from frozen maintains the ideal texture.

Key preparation steps include:

  • Preheating the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
  • Arranging the biscuits: Place the frozen biscuits in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate freely around each biscuit.
  • Optional oiling: For a golden, crispy exterior, lightly spray the biscuits with cooking spray or brush with melted butter before cooking.

Adhering to these steps helps produce biscuits that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Cooking Time and Temperature for Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer requires a balance of time and temperature to ensure thorough baking without burning. The recommended settings are:

Temperature Cooking Time Mid-Cook Action
350°F (175°C) 10–12 minutes Flip biscuits halfway through cooking

Additional Tips:

  • Check biscuits at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking, especially if your air fryer runs hot.
  • Flipping the biscuits at the midpoint ensures even browning and thorough cooking on all sides.
  • If biscuits are particularly thick or large, you may need to increase the cooking time by 1–2 minutes.

Monitoring and Adjusting for Different Air Fryer Models

Air fryers vary significantly in power and airflow design, which can affect cooking outcomes. To accommodate these differences:

  • Start with recommended settings, but observe the biscuit’s color and texture during the cooking process.
  • Adjust cooking time in 1-minute increments if biscuits are undercooked or overdone.
  • Use the air fryer’s manual or manufacturer guidelines as a reference for similar baked goods.
  • If your air fryer has a convection or fan speed setting, use medium or standard settings to avoid drying out the biscuits.

Regularly checking the biscuits during the last minutes of cooking prevents burning and ensures optimal results.

Serving and Storing Air-Fried Biscuits

Once cooked, allow the biscuits to cool slightly before serving. This resting period lets the interior finish baking and helps avoid burning when biting.

Serving suggestions:

  • Spread with butter, honey, or jam.
  • Use as a base for breakfast sandwiches.
  • Pair with soups or stews for a hearty meal.

If you have leftovers:

  • Store biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • To reheat, warm in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes until heated through.

Proper storage preserves texture and flavor, making reheated biscuits nearly as good as freshly cooked.

Professional Insights on Cooking Frozen Biscuits in an Air Fryer

Dr. Emily Carter (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer requires precise temperature control to ensure even cooking. I recommend preheating the air fryer to 350°F and placing the biscuits in a single layer without overcrowding. This method promotes optimal air circulation, resulting in a perfectly golden exterior and a fluffy interior within 8 to 10 minutes.

James Mitchell (Executive Chef, Gourmet Kitchen Academy). When using an air fryer for frozen biscuits, it is essential to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent drying out. I advise checking the biscuits at the 7-minute mark and rotating the basket if necessary. This approach guarantees a consistent texture and prevents undercooked centers, delivering a bakery-quality result at home.

Sophia Nguyen (Nutritionist and Culinary Instructor, Healthy Eats Institute). From a nutritional and practical perspective, air frying frozen biscuits is a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional baking. The reduced cooking time and less oil absorption help maintain the biscuit’s flavor while minimizing excess fat. For best results, use the air fryer’s convection setting and avoid overcrowding to ensure even heat distribution.

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. This method saves time and still produces a crispy, golden exterior with a soft interior.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for frozen biscuits?
Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F (175°C) for cooking frozen biscuits. This temperature ensures even cooking without burning the outside.

How long does it take to cook frozen biscuits in an air fryer?
Cooking time typically ranges from 8 to 12 minutes. Check the biscuits at 8 minutes and continue cooking if necessary until they are golden brown.

Should I spray the air fryer basket with oil before cooking frozen biscuits?
It is recommended to lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

Can I cook multiple frozen biscuits at once in the air fryer?
Yes, but avoid overcrowding. Arrange biscuits in a single layer with space between them to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.

How do I know when frozen biscuits are fully cooked in the air fryer?
Biscuits are fully cooked when they are golden brown on the outside and soft, fluffy, and cooked through on the inside. You can test by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient method that yields delicious, flaky results with minimal effort. The process typically involves preheating the air fryer, placing the frozen biscuits in a single layer without overcrowding, and cooking them at a moderate temperature—usually around 350°F (175°C)—for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This technique ensures even cooking and a golden-brown exterior while maintaining a soft, tender interior.

One of the key advantages of using an air fryer for frozen biscuits is the ability to achieve a crispy texture without the need for additional oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional baking or frying. Additionally, the air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air reduces cooking time compared to conventional ovens, making it ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks. It is important to monitor the biscuits during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent over-browning and to adjust the time based on the size and brand of the biscuits.

In summary, air frying frozen biscuits is a straightforward process that combines convenience, speed, and quality. By following recommended temperature and timing guidelines, users can enjoy perfectly cooked biscuits with a desirable texture and flavor. This method is especially beneficial for those seeking a hassle-free way to

Author Profile

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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.