Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer: The Crispy Secret to Quick, Flaky Perfection

Frozen biscuits in air fryer getting golden brown
Frozen biscuits crisping up in the air fryer basket

Nothing beats the smell of buttery, golden biscuits but who has time for homemade when hunger strikes fast? Enter the air fryer your go-to kitchen hero for quick, crispy, and healthier cooking. Cooking frozen biscuits in an air fryer doesn’t just save time it transforms ordinary dough into crispy, fluffy delights with barely any effort.

In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about air frying frozen biscuits from picking the best brands to nailing cook times. Whether you’re reheating Pillsbury Grands or tossing in a budget bag of store-brand biscuits, your breakfast (or dinner!) is about to get a major upgrade.
Looking for more air fryer inspiration? Try these crispy hash browns straight from your freezer: Frozen Hash Browns in the Air Fryer.

Why Air Fry Frozen Biscuits?

– Benefits of Cooking Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer

Let’s be real: baking frozen biscuits in an oven takes forever. But the air fryer? It’s the ultimate shortcut. You get even heat circulation and a beautifully browned exterior with zero flipping and no preheat wait. Discover why the air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to baking frozen biscuits to golden perfection:

Oven-BakedAir Fryer
20–25 minutes cook time10–12 minutes cook time
Requires preheatingOften no preheat needed
Risk of undercooked centersEven doneness throughout
Sometimes dry or toughCrispy outside, soft inside

Air frying also requires no oil, making it a slightly healthier option without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

– Air frying skips the oil, offering a lighter, healthier way to enjoy frozen biscuits without losing flavor or crunch.

Sure, microwaving is quick, but the texture? Gummy and limp. Traditional baking works, but it’s slow and often leaves biscuits dry or uneven. Here’s how air frying stacks up:

  • Microwave: Fast but rubbery.
  • Oven: Even baking but long wait times.
  • The Air Fryer Advantage: Faster cook time, irresistibly crispy edges, and that golden, flaky texture that makes frozen biscuits taste homemade.

If you’re someone who loves convenience and taste, the air fryer is hands down the better option for frozen biscuits.

Choosing the Right Frozen Biscuits

– Best Brands for Air Fryer Frozen Biscuits

Not all frozen biscuits are created equal especially when it comes to air frying. Not all frozen biscuit brands perform the same some rise perfectly fluffy, while others turn dry or fall apart in the air fryer. If you’re looking for top-tier texture and flavor, start with these top-rated biscuit brands made for the air fryer:

BrandAir Fryer PerformanceTaste ProfileBest Feature
Pillsbury GrandsExcellent rise, fluffyButtery & richPerfect for classic Southern biscuit lovers
Mary B’sLightly crisp, flakySlightly sweetGreat for sweet toppings like jam
Great Value (Walmart)Decent rise, economicalMildly savoryBudget-friendly, consistent cook
Annie’s OrganicSofter textureLight, natural flavorClean ingredients, no preservatives

For best air fryer results, choose “oven-ready” or “pre-baked” frozen biscuits, not raw dough meant to rise slowly.

– Pillsbury vs Store Brands: Texture, Taste, and Cost

Let’s settle the classic debate: Is it worth paying more for Pillsbury? In the air fryer, yes especially if you’re aiming for that golden, Southern-style biscuit that layers perfectly. Pillsbury Grands rise better and tend to cook more evenly, while some store brands stay dense or get overly dry on the edges.

But that doesn’t mean you should skip the store brands entirely. Here’s a quick breakdown:

FeaturePillsbury GrandsStore Brands
Price (avg)$$$
TextureFlaky and airyDenser
Cook consistencyExcellentVaries
Best forBreakfast sandwiches, butter + jamQuick snacks, savory toppings
Pillsbury vs store brand frozen biscuits comparison
Pillsbury and store-brand biscuits side by side after air frying

Check out how other freezer favorites perform in the air fryer like Air Fried Sweet Potato Cubes.

Prepping Your Air Fryer for Biscuits

– Ideal Temperature Settings and Air Fryer Models

To get those perfectly browned, fluffy biscuits, you’ve got to get the temperature and setup just right. Most frozen biscuit packages don’t include air fryer directions so here’s your go-to cheat sheet:

Ideal Air Fryer Temperature for Frozen Biscuits:

  • 350°F (177°C) for standard-size biscuits
  • 330°F (165°C) for smaller or thinner ones
  • 370°F (188°C) if you like them extra crisp

Don’t be afraid to adjust by 10–15°F depending on your air fryer’s size and power. Popular models like the Ninja Foodi, Cosori, and Instant Vortex tend to cook more evenly and slightly faster than generic models.

Air Fryer BrandKnown ForBiscuit Outcome
Ninja FoodiDual heating elementsEven, flaky biscuits
CosoriWide basket spaceUniform browning
Instant VortexFast preheatQuick cook time
GourmiaAffordable + compactMay need flipping once

– Preheat or Not? Preparing Your Air Fryer Step-by-Step

Some air fryer models preheat automatically, but many don’t and that small step can make a big difference.

How to Prepare Your Air Fryer for Biscuits:

  1. Preheat (if needed): Set the temperature to 350°F and let it run empty for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Spray the basket: Use a light coat of nonstick spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Space your biscuits: Don’t crowd them. Leave at least 1 inch between each one to allow air to circulate.
  4. Optional parchment paper lining helps prevent sticking and simplifies cleanup especially when cooking rich, buttery frozen biscuits in the air fryer.
  5. Set your timer: Begin with 8 minutes for smaller biscuits or 10–12 minutes for Grands or larger options.

Skipping the preheat can lead to uneven or undercooked centers especially with thicker biscuits.

Want a detox drink while you wait for those biscuits to puff up? Discover great ideas like Lemon Balm Water a refreshing natural fix.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer

How to place frozen biscuits in air fryer properly
Laying out frozen biscuits evenly in the air fryer

– Time and Temperature Guidelines

Now we’re down to the good stuff how to get golden, flaky perfection every time. While times can vary by air fryer model and biscuit thickness, here’s a dependable step-by-step:

Basic Time & Temp Chart:

Biscuit TypeTemperatureTimeFlip Required?
Regular-sized biscuits350°F10–12 minNo
Mini biscuits330°F8–9 minNo
Grands-style biscuits350°F12–14 minOptional
Stuffed biscuits370°F12–15 minYes (Halfway)

Always check doneness by breaking one open: the center should be steamy, fluffy, and fully cooked, not doughy.

Pro Tip: Start checking at the 8-minute mark. You can always add 1–2 minutes, but you can’t “unburn” them!

– Layering Biscuits for Even Cooking

Want even color and rise on all sides? It starts with smart biscuit placement:

DO:

  • Cook in a single layer with space between each biscuit
  • Use air fryer racks for double layering—flip halfway through

DON’T:

  • Overlap or stack biscuits
  • Place directly over heating coils
  • Ignore turning halfway if stacking on racks

If you’re cooking for a crowd and need to batch them, keep the first batch warm in a toaster oven or cover with foil.

Optional Add-On Before Cooking:

  • Light brush of melted butter or egg wash on top for extra shine
  • A sprinkle of garlic powder, cheddar, or everything bagel seasoning for flavor-packed crusts

Don’t miss our step-by-step breakdown on How to Cook Frozen Grands Biscuits in an Airfryer for even more insider tips.

Pillsbury Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer

– Why Pillsbury Biscuits Are Air Fryer Favorites

When it comes to frozen biscuits, Pillsbury reigns supreme in most kitchens and for good reason. Their biscuits are consistent, flavorful, and cook like a dream in the air fryer. Whether it’s the Grands Flaky Layers, Southern Homestyle, or Buttermilk, each variety gives you:

  • Reliable rise without exploding or deflating
  • Consistent browning on top and bottom
  • Classic buttery flavor that doesn’t need much added

Pillsbury Grands, in particular, have that iconic pull-apart texture you won’t find in store brands.

Here’s why home cooks prefer Pillsbury in the air fryer:

Pillsbury VarietyTexture After Air FryingIdeal Cook Time @350°F
Grands Flaky LayersCrispy outside, flaky inside12–14 min
Southern HomestyleDense and buttery10–12 min
ButtermilkSoft, slightly crisp edge9–11 min

Looking for in-depth instructions? Don’t miss our full post on how to make the most out of this biscuit brand in the air fryer:
How to Cook Frozen Grands Biscuits in an Airfryer – The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

– Special Tips for Different Pillsbury Varieties

Each Pillsbury biscuit type has its own ideal air fryer tweak. Here’s how to handle the most popular:

  • Grands Flaky Layers: Cook straight from frozen. Avoid pressing or separating layers before cooking—this will ruin the rise.
  • Southern Homestyle: These tend to be denser. Add 1 extra minute for perfect interior doneness.
  • Buttermilk: Best brushed with melted butter before cooking to boost flavor and browning.

Want to serve these biscuits alongside something savory? Check out how we crisp up breakfast proteins like Turkey Bacon in Air Fryer the perfect pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcrowding the Basket

This is by far the most common air fryer mistake and it’s a biscuit killer. Biscuits need space to rise and crisp properly. Overcrowding leads to:

  • Uneven browning
  • Doughy or undercooked centers
  • Biscuits fusing together like mutant bread blobs

Fix: Always place biscuits in a single layer with 1 inch of space around each one. If you’re cooking a second batch, keep the first warm in foil or a low-temp oven.

Pro Tip: Use a wire rack accessory to create layers but rotate halfway through.

– Setting the Wrong Temperature or Skipping Preheat

If your air fryer’s temp is too high, the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low, and you end up with pale, soggy biscuits. Preheating matters especially for flaky, thicker biscuits like Pillsbury Grands.

Mistake 1: Jumping straight into cook mode without preheating
Mistake 2: Guessing the temp instead of setting it based on biscuit size

Correct Settings Recap:

Biscuit SizeTemperatureTime
Standard350°F10–12 min
Mini330°F8–9 min
Grands/Thick350°F12–14 min

Take the guesswork out and follow those ranges. And when in doubt—always check the middle of one biscuit before serving.

Not sure which healthy sides or smart air fryer pairings work best with frozen biscuits? We’ve got you covered. Discover great ideas like Lemon Balm Water to balance your meal with something light and refreshing.

Creative Toppings & Variations for Air Fried Biscuits

– Butter, Honey, Jam, and Cheese Ideas

Air fried frozen biscuits are a blank canvas and the topping options are endless. Whether you’re making a cozy weekend breakfast or a quick snack, these simple add-ons elevate your biscuit game instantly:

Sweet Toppings:

  • Honey Butter Glaze: Mix softened butter with honey and a dash of cinnamon. Brush on while warm.
  • Strawberry Jam + Cream Cheese: Classic combo that tastes like dessert.
  • Apple Butter or Maple Syrup: Especially good on buttermilk or homestyle biscuits.

Savory Toppings:

  • Cheddar + Garlic Powder: Sprinkle before the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning: A crunchy, salty finish that goes with eggs or sausage.
  • Smoked Gouda + Chives: A fancy twist that melts beautifully on warm biscuits.

Want a super simple upgrade? Just slice them in half, spread some butter, and throw them back in the air fryer for a minute to toast the inside.

Air fried biscuit breakfast sandwich
Crispy biscuit sandwich fresh from the air fryer

– Quick Savory Biscuit Sandwich Combos

Here are a few fast and tasty biscuit sandwiches you can whip up using your air fried biscuits as the base:

Combo NameFillingsPerfect For
Classic BreakfastFried egg, sausage patty, cheddar cheeseMorning meal
Southern StyleFried chicken strip + hot honey drizzleBrunch or lunch
Garden MeltTomato, avocado, spinach, mozzarellaLight & fresh bite
BBQ Biscuit StackPulled pork + slaw + pickle chipsDinner alternative

Feeling adventurous? Try air frying the entire sandwich for 1–2 minutes after assembling for that extra melty, crispy magic.

Need a side that’s just as crave-worthy? Don’t miss our Air Fried Sweet Potato Cubes for the perfect pairing with savory biscuit sandwiches.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Air Fried Biscuits

– Best Methods for Preserving Texture

Let’s face it reheating bread products can be hit or miss. But air fried biscuits? You’ve got options. To keep that crispy outside and fluffy center, storage matters just as much as reheating.

How to Store Leftover Air Fried Biscuits:

Storage MethodTimeframeNotes
Room TempUp to 1 dayStore in an airtight container
Fridge3–4 daysWrap in foil or sealed bag
Freezer1–2 monthsWrap individually + freeze bag

Avoid leaving them uncovered air exposure dries them out fast.

Want to keep that bakery-style flakiness? Let the biscuits cool completely before wrapping and storing. Warm biscuits sealed too early = soggy mess.

– How to Reheat Biscuits in Air Fryer for Best Results

Microwaving leftover biscuits often turns them chewy and bland. The air fryer is by far the best way to reheat without losing texture.

How to Reheat Frozen or Chilled Biscuits:

  1. Preheat air fryer to 330°F
  2. Arrange frozen biscuits in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket to ensure uniform cooking and golden-brown results.
  3. Reheat for 3–5 minutes (freshly refrigerated) or 7–9 minutes (frozen)
  4. Optional: Add a dab of butter on top during last 1–2 minutes

If you’re working with stuffed or topped biscuits, cover them loosely with foil to avoid burning.

Want more ideas for reheatable comfort food? Check out our protein-packed Turkey Bacon in Air Fryer perfect for pairing with leftover biscuits.

You can find it us in Pinterest ! & our Blogs Here

Frozen Biscuits in Air Fryer FAQs Answered

– Is It Possible to Air Fry Frozen Biscuits? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Yes, absolutely—and it’s one of the easiest air fryer wins. No need to thaw or defrost. Just take them straight from the freezer, place in the air fryer basket, and cook at 350°F for 10–14 minutes depending on size.
The hot circulating air crisps up the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. It’s faster, cleaner, and way more convenient than baking.

– Can You Air Fry Pillsbury Biscuits? Absolutely—Here’s How to Get Perfect Results Every Time.

Definitely. In fact, Pillsbury biscuits are one of the best brands for air frying. Their consistent texture, size, and buttery flavor make them ideal for crisping up fast. Grands Flaky Layers and Southern Homestyle varieties cook beautifully in about 12–14 minutes at 350°F.
Just avoid overlapping or stacking them—space them out for best results.

– How Long Do You Cook Frozen Biscuits For?

Cook times depend on your biscuit type and air fryer model, but here’s a solid guide:
Mini Biscuits: 8–9 minutes at 330°F
Regular Frozen Biscuits: 10–12 minutes at 350°F
Thick/Grands Style Biscuits: 12–14 minutes at 350°F
Always start checking around the 8–10 minute mark, especially with a new brand or unfamiliar air fryer.

– Are Biscuits in the Air Fryer Good?

Not just good—they’re better. Air frying delivers a golden, crispy exterior with a moist, airy center. You skip the long oven wait and avoid soggy microwave disasters.
People love air fried biscuits because they:
– Cook faster
– Require no oil or mess
– Reheat like a dream
– Stay flakier longer

Conclusion: Why Air Frying Frozen Biscuits Will Be Your New Favorite Hack

Air frying frozen biscuits isn’t just a kitchen shortcut—it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re racing through a weekday morning or planning a cozy weekend brunch, this method delivers golden, flaky results in minutes with no oven, no fuss, and barely any cleanup. You can even add toppings, turn them into savory breakfast sandwiches, or pair them with crispy proteins.

No more soggy microwave biscuits. No more waiting for the oven to preheat. Just crispy, fluffy goodness in under 15 minutes.

👉 Check out these healthy air fryer zucchini fries that pair perfectly with hash browns.

Leave a Comment