We’ve all been there – craving fresh, fluffy biscuits but not wanting to heat up the entire oven. That’s where our game-changing air fryer biscuits come to the rescue! These golden beauties deliver all the buttery goodness you love in a fraction of the time.
Air fryer biscuits aren’t just convenient – they’re actually superior to traditional oven-baked versions in many ways. The circulating hot air creates an incredibly crispy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly tender and flaky. Plus, you’ll have warm biscuits on your table in just 12 minutes!
Whether you’re making a quick breakfast for the family or need a last-minute side dish for dinner, these air fryer biscuits will become your new go-to recipe. We’ll show you exactly how to achieve bakery-quality results with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected these simple pantry staples to create perfectly flaky air fryer biscuits that rival any bakery creation. Our recipe uses basic ingredients that most home cooks already have on hand.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Fat and Liquid Components
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces
- 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
Optional Finishing Touch
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing tops
We recommend measuring flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for the most accurate results. The butter must stay cold throughout the mixing process to achieve those coveted flaky layers. Cubing the butter into quarter-inch pieces ensures even distribution and easier incorporation into the flour mixture.
Buttermilk provides the tangy flavor and tender crumb that makes these biscuits exceptional. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 3/4 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Equipment Needed
Making perfect air fryer biscuits requires minimal equipment that most home cooks already have in their kitchen. We recommend gathering these essential tools before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.
Air Fryer serves as our primary cooking appliance for this recipe. Any standard air fryer model will work effectively for baking biscuits.
Pastry cutter or fork becomes essential when working with homemade biscuits. We use this tool to cut cold butter into the flour mixture, creating the flaky texture that makes biscuits irresistible.
Biscuit cutter helps us achieve uniform shapes and sizes for even cooking. A round cookie cutter or even a clean glass can substitute if you don’t have a dedicated biscuit cutter.
Nonstick spray offers optional protection against sticking. While not always necessary, we find it helpful when working with particularly sticky dough or if your air fryer basket tends to grab food.
Parchment paper or liner provides another optional tool for easy cleanup and prevents sticking. We recommend using parchment paper designed specifically for air fryers to ensure proper air circulation.
These tools work together to create bakery quality biscuits with minimal fuss. The beauty of air fryer biscuit making lies in its simplicity, requiring only basic kitchen equipment that most home cooks already own.
Instructions
We’ll walk you through our step-by-step process for creating perfect air fryer biscuits with flaky layers and golden tops. This straightforward method delivers bakery-quality results in just minutes.
Prep the Dough
We start by combining all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix together 2 cups all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.
Cut our cold butter into small cubes or grate it directly into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, we blend the butter into the flour until pea-sized pieces form throughout the mixture. This step creates the flaky layers we want in our finished biscuits.
Pour in 3/4 cup of cold buttermilk and stir just until a shaggy dough forms. We avoid overmixing at this stage to prevent tough biscuits.
Shape the Biscuits
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently press it into a rough rectangle shape. We fold the dough over itself 2-3 times to create additional layers, then flatten it to about 1-inch thickness.
Using a sharp biscuit cutter, we cut straight down through the dough to create rounds that are typically 2.5 to 2.75 inches in diameter. We press straight down without twisting the cutter, as twisting can seal the edges and prevent proper rising.
Gather any scraps and gently reshape them to cut additional biscuits. We repeat this process until all dough is used.
Preheat the Air Fryer
We preheat our air fryer according to the temperature guidelines that work best for different cooking times and preferences:
| Temperature | Cooking Time | Method |
|---|---|---|
| 330°F | 6-8 minutes | Optional flip/shake halfway |
| 350°F | 6 minutes + 3-4 minutes | Flip and rotate after first 6 minutes |
| 390°F-400°F | 9-11 minutes | No flipping required |
Most air fryer models benefit from preheating, though we recommend checking your manufacturer’s manual for exact guidance.
Cook the Biscuits
We spray the air fryer basket or rack with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Place our shaped biscuits in a single layer with space between each one to allow proper air circulation.
Cook the biscuits until they achieve a golden brown color on top. At 330°F, we cook for 6 to 8 minutes and may flip or shake the basket halfway through for even browning. For those using 350°F, we cook for 6 minutes initially, then flip and rotate the biscuits before cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
Higher temperature settings of 390°F to 400°F require 9 to 11 minutes of cooking time without the need for flipping. We brush the hot biscuits with melted butter immediately after cooking for added flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuits
Mastering air fryer biscuits requires attention to exact techniques that ensure consistently excellent results. We’ve discovered several key strategies that make the difference between average and exceptional biscuits.
Temperature and Timing Precision
Getting the temperature right is crucial for perfectly cooked biscuits. We recommend cooking homemade biscuits at 375°F to 400°F for 8 to 12 minutes until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. For canned biscuits, we use a lower temperature of 350°F and cook them for about 7 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
| Biscuit Type | Temperature | Time | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homemade | 375°F – 400°F | 8-12 minutes | Cook until golden brown |
| Canned | 350°F | 7 minutes | Flip halfway through |
Proper Spacing and Setup
Air circulation is essential for even cooking in your air fryer. We always ensure our biscuits have adequate space between them in the basket to allow hot air to flow freely around each biscuit. Using parchment paper or a silicone liner prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
The Cold Ingredient Advantage
Cold ingredients create the flakiest biscuits possible. We keep our butter and buttermilk refrigerated right up until use, and we’ve found that chilling homemade biscuits for about 15 minutes before cooking enhances their texture significantly. Full-fat ingredients provide superior flavor and create those coveted flaky layers.
Prevention and Testing Strategies
Preventing sticking is simple when we apply non-stick spray to the air fryer basket before adding our biscuits. We always start with a test batch to determine the optimal cooking time for our exact air fryer model, as different brands can vary in their heating patterns.
The Finishing Touch
Brushing our cooked biscuits with melted butter immediately after cooking adds extra flavor and creates that irresistible golden finish. This final step transforms good biscuits into bakery-quality treats that rival any traditional oven-baked version.
Variations and Flavor Options
Once we master the basic air fryer biscuit technique, we can explore many delicious variations that transform our simple biscuits into exciting sweet treats or savory delights. These creative options allow us to customize our biscuits for different meals and occasions.
Sweet Biscuit Variations
We love turning our air fryer biscuits into dessert-worthy treats with these sweet variations. Air fryer biscuit donuts offer a delightful twist by cutting out the center of our biscuits before air frying, then coating them with cinnamon sugar or adding a glaze for extra sweetness.
Cinnamon sugar biscuits provide a classic comfort food experience when we add a slab of butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top while the biscuits are still warm. The butter melts into the flaky layers while the cinnamon sugar creates a sweet, aromatic coating that transforms our basic biscuit into a bakery-style treat.
Savory Biscuit Options
Our savory variations turn air fryer biscuits into satisfying meal components perfect for any time of day. Ham and cheese biscuits become an instant favorite when we slice our cooked biscuits, add ham and cheese, then return them to the air fryer for an additional minute to melt the cheese and warm the filling.
Breakfast sandwiches showcase the versatility of our air fryer biscuits as we use them as the foundation for hearty morning meals filled with eggs, bacon, and cheese. The sturdy texture of air fryer biscuits holds up beautifully to these fillings without becoming soggy.
Biscuits and gravy remains a traditional breakfast combination that pairs perfectly with our crispy-outside, tender-inside air fryer biscuits. Cheddar biscuits with garlic butter elevate our basic recipe by incorporating sharp cheddar cheese into the dough and finishing with aromatic garlic butter for a restaurant-quality side dish.
We can also create biscuit bombs by filling our biscuits with cheese, bacon, or jelly before cooking, resulting in stuffed treats with delicious surprises inside. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free options work well using gluten-free canned biscuit dough that air fries just as successfully as traditional versions.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made these delicious air fryer biscuits, proper storage ensures they stay fresh and maintain their texture for future enjoyment.
Storing Your Biscuits
We recommend keeping leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method preserves their soft interior while maintaining some crispness on the outside.
For longer storage, place the biscuits in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. The cooler temperature slows down any moisture loss and prevents spoilage.
When you want to store biscuits for extended periods, freezing offers the best solution. Wrap each biscuit individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly frozen biscuits maintain their quality for up to 6 months.
Reheating Methods
Air Fryer Reheating
The air fryer provides the most effective way to restore your biscuits’ original texture. Set the temperature to 300°F and reheat for a few minutes until the biscuits feel warm and regain their crispy exterior. Frozen biscuits require approximately 12 minutes in the air fryer, though cooking times may vary depending on your exact model.
Microwave Option
For quick reheating, use the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds, adjusting the time based on your microwave’s power rating. While this method works faster, it won’t restore the crispy texture that makes air fryer biscuits special.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | 35-40°F |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months | 0°F or below |
| Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer (Fresh) | 300°F | Few minutes |
| Air Fryer (Frozen) | 300°F | 12 minutes |
| Microwave | High power | 10-20 seconds |
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer biscuits offer remarkable versatility that transforms them into the perfect accompaniment for any meal of the day. We love how these golden, fluffy biscuits complement both sweet and savory dishes with their tender interior and lightly crisp exterior.
Classic Breakfast Pairings
Our freshly baked air fryer biscuits shine brightest when served warm with traditional breakfast accompaniments. Butter melts beautifully into the flaky layers, while jam or honey adds the perfect touch of sweetness. We recommend pairing these biscuits alongside breakfast staples such as bacon, turkey bacon, sausage patties, fried eggs, or scrambled eggs for a complete morning meal.
Hearty Breakfast Sandwiches
Transform your air fryer biscuits into satisfying breakfast sandwiches by slicing them open and filling with scrambled eggs and your choice of breakfast meat. Turkey sausage, bacon, or ham work exceptionally well nestled between the warm, buttery layers. We suggest topping with cheese or drizzling with sausage gravy for an indulgent morning treat.
Versatile Side Dish Options
These biscuits excel as a side dish for main courses throughout the day. We find they pair beautifully with air fryer pork chops, chicken thighs, meatloaf, or chicken tenders. The neutral flavor profile allows them to complement both light and hearty entrees without overwhelming the main dish.
Comforting Soup Companions
Nothing beats the combination of warm biscuits with creamy soups. We especially enjoy serving our air fryer biscuits alongside chicken pot pie soup or vegetable chowder for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Elegant Brunch Presentations
Elevate your brunch or charcuterie board by adding air fryer biscuits alongside fresh fruit, artisanal cheeses, and a variety of spreads. The biscuits provide a neutral base that guests can customize with their preferred toppings and flavors.
Sweet Dessert Applications
We love transforming leftover biscuits into delightful desserts by drizzling them with melted butter and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar. Fruit preserves or fresh berries create another excellent sweet option that satisfies dessert cravings.
Pro Serving Tips
Allow your biscuits to rest for a couple minutes after air frying to let the texture properly set. For a savory enhancement, we recommend topping biscuits with grated cheddar and garlic powder before air frying. The adaptable nature of these biscuits makes them suitable for any meal or occasion, whether you prefer sweet or savory accompaniments.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how air fryer biscuits can transform your kitchen routine with their incredible speed and superior texture. These golden beauties deliver bakery-quality results in just minutes while using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
The versatility we’ve explored means you’ll never run out of creative ways to enjoy these biscuits. From sweet breakfast treats to savory dinner sides they adapt perfectly to any meal or craving you might have.
With proper storage techniques and reheating methods you can enjoy fresh-tasting biscuits throughout the week. We’re confident that once you try this air fryer method you’ll never want to go back to traditional oven baking for your quick biscuit needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook biscuits in an air fryer?
Homemade biscuits typically take 8 to 12 minutes at 375°F to 400°F until golden brown. Canned biscuits cook faster, requiring about 7 minutes at 350°F and should be flipped halfway through cooking. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so start with a test batch to determine optimal timing.
What temperature should I use for air fryer biscuits?
For homemade biscuits, set your air fryer to 375°F to 400°F. Canned biscuits require a lower temperature of 350°F. Always preheat your air fryer before cooking to ensure even browning and proper texture. The higher temperature for homemade biscuits helps create that perfect crispy exterior and tender interior.
Do I need special equipment to make air fryer biscuits?
You only need basic tools: an air fryer, a pastry cutter or fork for mixing butter into flour, and a biscuit cutter for uniform shapes. Optional items include nonstick spray and parchment paper for easy cleanup. Most home cooks already have these simple tools, making air fryer biscuits accessible to everyone.
How do I store leftover air fryer biscuits?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 6 months. For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness, or use the microwave for quick reheating.
Can I use frozen or canned biscuit dough in an air fryer?
Yes, both frozen and canned biscuit dough work perfectly in air fryers. Canned biscuits should be cooked at 350°F for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Frozen biscuits may take up to 12 minutes. The air fryer actually produces better results than traditional oven baking for these convenience options.
What ingredients do I need for homemade air fryer biscuits?
You’ll need 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cubed), and 3/4 cup cold buttermilk. Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing tops. These basic pantry staples create bakery-quality biscuits with minimal effort.
Why do my air fryer biscuits turn out dense instead of flaky?
Dense biscuits usually result from warm butter or overmixing the dough. Keep your butter cold and cut it into the flour until you have pea-sized pieces. Mix the buttermilk just until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overwork the dough, as this develops gluten and creates tough, dense biscuits instead of flaky layers.
Can I make different flavored biscuits in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Try sweet variations like cinnamon sugar biscuits or stuffed biscuit bombs with jelly. For savory options, add cheese, herbs, or make ham and cheese biscuits. You can also create breakfast sandwiches or biscuits and gravy. The basic recipe is versatile and adapts well to various flavor additions.
