Cooking biscuits in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic comfort food with a deliciously crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. But, how long do you need to cook biscuits in an air fryer to get them just right? The answer depends on the type of biscuits you’re using—whether they are canned, homemade, or frozen. In this article, we’ll explore the best cooking times and techniques to ensure your air-fried biscuits turn out perfectly every time. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make mouth-watering biscuits in your air fryer!
Why Use an Air Fryer for Biscuits?
Air frying has become increasingly popular, and for good reasons. When it comes to making biscuits, the air fryer offers several advantages over traditional methods. Here’s why you should consider using your air fryer for biscuits:
Benefits of Air Frying Biscuits
Using an air fryer for biscuits is not only quick but also healthier than traditional frying methods. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the biscuits, requiring little to no oil. This results in a lower-calorie treat that still boasts a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Moreover, air frying is faster than baking in an oven, making it ideal for those looking for a quick breakfast or snack option. You can have fresh, warm biscuits ready in just a few minutes!
For more healthy cooking tips, check out our article on Air Fryer Cooking Tips for Beginners.
Comparing Air Frying to Other Methods
Air frying biscuits is more efficient and less messy than other cooking methods. Traditional oven baking can take longer and may require preheating, while deep frying involves a lot of oil and cleanup. With an air fryer, you can achieve similar, if not better, results in less time and with less hassle. The rapid air circulation in the fryer ensures that the biscuits cook evenly, providing a perfect balance of a crispy crust and a soft, tender center.
Learn more about How to Use Your Air Fryer for Perfect Results.
For a detailed comparison of cooking methods, check out America’s Test Kitchen’s Guide to Air Frying.
Types of Biscuits to Cook in an Air Fryer
Understanding the different types of biscuits you can cook in an air fryer will help you determine the appropriate cooking time and technique. Here are the main types of biscuits you can make:
Canned Biscuits
Canned biscuits are a popular choice for air frying because they are pre-made and require minimal preparation. These biscuits come in a variety of flavors and styles, such as buttermilk, flaky layers, or buttery. Cooking canned biscuits in an air fryer usually takes about 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The result is a golden-brown, crispy outside with a soft, fluffy interior.
Explore Delicious Homemade Biscuit Recipes to try making your own dough.
Homemade Biscuits
Homemade biscuits are another great option for the air fryer. Whether you’re using a family recipe or experimenting with new ingredients, homemade dough can be easily adapted to air frying. The cooking time for homemade biscuits in an air fryer is typically around 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but this can vary depending on the thickness and ingredients of the dough. Be sure to check for doneness by looking for a golden color and checking the internal texture.
Frozen Biscuits
If you have frozen biscuits on hand, you can also cook them in the air fryer. Cooking frozen biscuits is convenient because there’s no need to thaw them first. Simply place the frozen biscuits in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). For best results, check the biscuits halfway through the cooking time and rotate them to ensure even cooking.
Visit our article on How to Make Fluffy Air Fryer Biscuits for additional tips.
How Long to Cook Biscuits in Air Fryer: A Comprehensive Guide
Now that we’ve covered the different types of biscuits, let’s dive into the specifics of how long to cook biscuits in an air fryer. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your biscuits are cooked to perfection:
Cooking Times for Different Types of Biscuits
The cooking time for biscuits in an air fryer can vary depending on the type of biscuits you’re using:
- Canned Biscuits: 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
- Homemade Biscuits: 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
- Frozen Biscuits: 12-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
These times are general guidelines, so it’s always a good idea to check your biscuits periodically to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
Preheating and Air Fryer Settings
Preheating the air fryer is crucial for even cooking. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that the biscuits begin cooking immediately at the correct temperature, resulting in a perfectly crisp exterior and a soft interior.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the biscuits are done, look for a golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture on the outside. You can also insert a toothpick or a skewer into the center of a biscuit; if it comes out clean, the biscuits are ready. For a more precise check, use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the biscuits reaches at least 190°F (88°C).
Adjusting for Air Fryer Models
Different air fryer models may have variations in cooking times and temperatures. It’s important to become familiar with your specific model and adjust the cooking time as needed. Start with the recommended time and adjust in small increments if necessary, checking frequently to ensure the biscuits do not overcook.
Tips for Perfectly Air Fried Biscuits
Cooking biscuits in an air fryer can yield amazing results, but a few tips and tricks can help ensure perfection every time. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
Avoiding Overcrowding
One of the most common mistakes when cooking biscuits in an air fryer is overcrowding the basket. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking and potentially soggy biscuits. To avoid this, make sure to place the biscuits in a single layer with space between each one. If you need to cook a larger batch, consider doing it in multiple rounds to ensure each biscuit is evenly cooked and perfectly crispy.
Using Parchment Paper or Liners
Using parchment paper or silicone liners can help prevent the biscuits from sticking to the air fryer basket. These liners also make cleanup much easier. However, be sure to use parchment paper designed for air fryers, as it has perforations that allow proper air circulation. Avoid using regular parchment paper, as it can block airflow and affect the cooking results.
Read our tips on How to Perfect Your Air Fryer Cooking to get more ideas on achieving the best results.
Rotating and Flipping Biscuits
For even browning and consistent cooking, consider rotating and flipping the biscuits halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that both sides of the biscuits cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly golden-brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. If you notice one side browning faster than the other, flipping them can help balance the cooking.
Adding Toppings and Seasonings
Get creative with your air-fried biscuits by adding toppings and seasonings before cooking. Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder, herbs, or cheese for a savory twist. For a sweet version, try brushing them with a bit of honey or maple syrup and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar. These simple additions can elevate your biscuits from ordinary to extraordinary!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Biscuits in Air Fryer
Even with the right techniques, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect biscuits. Here are some mistakes to avoid when using your air fryer:
Not Preheating the Air Fryer
Skipping the preheat step is a frequent mistake that can impact the texture and cooking time of the biscuits. Preheating the air fryer helps achieve the desired crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Without preheating, the biscuits may take longer to cook and could turn out unevenly browned or soggy. Always preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes before cooking.
Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
As mentioned earlier, overcrowding the basket prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. Ensure there is enough space around each biscuit to allow hot air to circulate freely. If you’re cooking for a large group, cook in batches to ensure each biscuit comes out perfectly.
Using the Wrong Temperature Settings
Using the wrong temperature setting can result in biscuits that are overcooked on the outside and undercooked on the inside. Follow the recommended temperature of 350°F (175°C) for most types of biscuits. Adjust as needed based on your specific air fryer model and personal preferences.
For more baking tips, see King Arthur Baking’s Guide to Biscuits for expert advice.
Creative Recipes for Air Fryer Biscuits
Cooking biscuits in an air fryer doesn’t have to be limited to plain biscuits. Here are some creative recipes to try using your air fryer:
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits
Add a savory twist to your biscuits by incorporating cheese and garlic. Before cooking, brush the biscuits with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and shredded cheddar cheese. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits
For a sweet treat, try making cinnamon sugar biscuits in your air fryer. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter, then dip them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. These sweet biscuits are perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Savory Herb Biscuits
Infuse your biscuits with fresh herbs for a flavorful side dish. Before cooking, brush the biscuits with olive oil and sprinkle with a mix of chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. These herb biscuits pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or roasted meats.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fried Biscuits
Air fryer biscuits are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
As a Side Dish
Biscuits are a classic side dish that complements many meals. Serve them alongside soups, stews, or salads for a hearty and satisfying addition. They also go well with roasted meats or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
As a Snack
Enjoy air fryer biscuits as a quick and easy snack. Serve them warm with a pat of butter, honey, or your favorite jam. They are perfect for an afternoon treat or a late-night snack.
In Breakfast Sandwiches
Turn your biscuits into a delicious breakfast sandwich by adding eggs, cheese, and sausage or bacon. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the biscuits make them ideal for holding all the delicious fillings.
Storing and Reheating Air Fried Biscuits
If you have leftover biscuits, storing and reheating them properly can help maintain their texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, wrap each biscuit individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Reheating Tips
To reheat biscuits in an air fryer, set the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and heat for 3-5 minutes. This will help restore their crispy exterior and soft interior without drying them out. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.
Freezing Biscuits
To freeze biscuits, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped biscuits in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen biscuits in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
FAQs About Cooking Biscuits in Air Fryer
Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking biscuits in an air fryer:
How Do You Make Biscuits Crispier in an Air Fryer?
To make biscuits crispier in an air fryer, increase the temperature by 10-20 degrees for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust without overcooking the inside.
Can You Cook Different Types of Biscuits Together in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can cook different types of biscuits together in an air fryer, but be mindful of the cooking times for each type. Start with the type that requires the longest cooking time and add the others as needed to ensure they all cook evenly.
How Do You Prevent Biscuits from Sticking to the Air Fryer Basket?
To prevent biscuits from sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or use a parchment paper liner designed for air fryers. This will make it easier to remove the biscuits and reduce cleanup.
What’s the Best Way to Add Toppings to Biscuits in an Air Fryer?
For best results, add toppings like cheese, herbs, or cinnamon sugar before cooking. Brush the biscuits with a bit of melted butter or oil to help the toppings adhere. If you want to add delicate toppings, like fresh herbs or grated cheese, wait until the last few minutes of cooking.
Check out our Air Fryer FAQ Guide to answer all your questions!
Conclusion
Cooking biscuits in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic comfort food. By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can ensure your biscuits come out perfectly every time, whether they are canned, homemade, or frozen. Experiment with different recipes and serving ideas to make the most of your air fryer and enjoy a variety of tasty, air-fried biscuits at home.
Now that you know “how long to cook biscuits in air fryer,” it’s time to start cooking! Grab your favorite biscuits, preheat your air fryer, and enjoy a batch of fresh, warm biscuits in just minutes.