How To Cook Biscuits In Power XL Air Fryer [FULL GUIDE]

Biscuits are a staple in many kitchens, offering a soft, flaky texture that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes. Traditionally baked in an oven, biscuits have now found a quicker and equally satisfying alternative: the air fryer. The Power XL Air Fryer, known for its versatility and efficient hot-air circulation, is an excellent tool for achieving golden-brown biscuits with a tender interior in a fraction of the time. However, air frying biscuits is not simply a matter of tossing them in the basket-temperature, timing, and technique all play crucial roles in ensuring perfect results. This guide dives deep into each element of baking biscuits in your Power XL Air Fryer, helping you master the art with confidence.

Optimal Air Fryer Temperature To Cook Biscuits In Power XL Air Fryer

Temperature control is paramount when baking biscuits in an air fryer. Unlike a traditional oven that heats evenly from all sides, the Power XL Air Fryer relies on rapid circulating hot air, which can lead to over-browning if the temperature is too high. For standard homemade or store-bought biscuits, the optimal temperature range is 330°F to 350°F (165°C to 175°C).

  • Lower End (330°F / 165°C): Ideal for delicate, buttery biscuits that you want to rise slowly and remain soft. This temperature reduces the risk of burning the exterior while giving the interior ample time to cook thoroughly.
  • Higher End (350°F / 175°C): Works well for biscuits that require a slightly crisp exterior. This temperature promotes browning and creates a visually appealing crust but requires close monitoring to avoid overcooking.

Avoid exceeding 360°F (182°C), as this can cause biscuits to brown too quickly on the outside while leaving the center undercooked.

How Long To Cook Biscuits In Power XL Air Fryer

cook biscuits in power XL air fryer

Cooking time in the Power XL Air Fryer depends on biscuit size, dough type, and whether the biscuits are frozen or fresh. Generally:

  • Fresh biscuits: 8-12 minutes
  • Frozen biscuits: 10-14 minutes

For best results, check biscuits halfway through cooking and rotate the basket if necessary to ensure even browning. Keep in mind that smaller biscuits may cook more quickly, while larger, thicker ones will need additional time.

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How To Tell If It Is Done

Unlike conventional ovens, air fryers cook faster and can sometimes create misleading external cues. To determine doneness:

  1. Visual Check: The top should be golden-brown, and the edges slightly darker than the center.
  2. Texture Test: Gently press the top of the biscuit-it should spring back instead of leaving an indentation.
  3. Toothpick Test: Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center; it should come out clean without wet dough.

Using these indicators together ensures that your biscuits are perfectly cooked throughout, avoiding underbaked centers or overly crisp edges.

Ingredients Needed

To make classic biscuits in your Power XL Air Fryer, gather:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)

Optional additions include shredded cheese, herbs, or garlic powder for savory variations, or a touch of vanilla extract for sweeter biscuits.

How To Cook Biscuits In Power XL Air Fryer

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the Power XL Air Fryer to 340°F (170°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk gradually, stirring until the dough forms.
  3. Shape Biscuits: Roll or pat the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a round cutter for uniform biscuits.
  4. Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease or line the basket with parchment paper. Place biscuits at least 1 inch apart to allow air circulation.
  5. Air Fry: Cook at 340°F (170°C) for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through. Rotate the basket if needed.
  6. Check Doneness: Use the methods described earlier.
  7. Cool Slightly: Let the biscuits rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow residual heat to finish the cooking process.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Temperature?

Altering the temperature will directly impact both texture and cooking time:

  • Lower Temperature (310-325°F / 155-160°C): Results in slower cooking and lighter browning. The interior will be softer but may take longer than 12 minutes.
  • Higher Temperature (355-370°F / 180-188°C): Produces a crispier exterior and faster cooking, but risks uneven baking. The center may remain doughy if cooking too fast.
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Always monitor closely if deviating from the recommended range, adjusting time accordingly.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Cooking Time?

Changing the cooking time without adjusting temperature can lead to:

  • Too short: Undercooked centers and doughy texture.
  • Too long: Hard, overly browned, or dry biscuits.

A good rule of thumb is to adjust cooking time proportionally to size or thickness-larger biscuits may need an extra 2-3 minutes, smaller ones slightly less. Always combine timing with visual and texture cues for perfect results.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with experience, issues can arise:

  • Biscuits are doughy inside: Likely due to too low temperature or insufficient cooking time. Solution: extend cooking by 1-3 minutes, checking frequently.
  • Biscuits are burnt outside, raw inside: Temperature too high or biscuits placed too close together. Solution: reduce temperature, increase spacing, and cook in batches.
  • Biscuits are flat: Could be overworked dough, expired baking powder, or incorrect butter temperature. Ensure cold butter and minimal mixing.

Understanding these common pitfalls allows quick corrections and consistent outcomes.

Expert Tips

  • Preheat for Even Cooking: Even a brief 3-5 minute preheat prevents uneven biscuit rising.
  • Use Cold Butter: Cold butter creates flaky layers by releasing steam during cooking.
  • Do Not Overcrowd: Proper air circulation is key for even browning.
  • Rotate the Basket: Air fryers have hot spots; rotation ensures uniform color.
  • Check Early: Start checking biscuits 1-2 minutes before the recommended time to avoid overcooking.

These subtle adjustments can elevate a simple biscuit to bakery-quality perfection.

FAQs

What Temperature Should I Set The Power XL Air Fryer To Cook Biscuits?

Preheat the Power XL air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for optimal biscuit baking. This temperature allows for a crisp exterior while ensuring the biscuits cook through without burning.

How Long Do Biscuits Take To Cook In The Power XL Air Fryer?

Biscuits typically take 8-10 minutes to cook in the Power XL air fryer. However, cooking time can vary based on the size and thickness of the biscuits, so it’s best to check for a golden-brown color and a firm texture.

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Should I Use Parchment Paper When Cooking Biscuits In The Power XL Air Fryer?

Using parchment paper can help prevent the biscuits from sticking to the air fryer basket and make cleanup easier. However, ensure the paper doesn’t block the airflow, as this could affect the cooking process. Cut the parchment paper to fit the basket without covering the entire surface.

Can I Cook Store-bought Biscuits In The Power XL Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook store-bought, refrigerated biscuits in the Power XL air fryer. Simply place them in the air fryer basket with enough space between each biscuit for air circulation. Follow the same temperature and time guidelines as you would for homemade biscuits.

Do I Need To Grease The Basket When Cooking Biscuits In The Power XL Air Fryer?

It’s recommended to lightly grease the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking, especially if you’re not using parchment paper. This step helps achieve a golden and crisp exterior on the biscuits.

Can I Cook Frozen Biscuits In The Power XL Air Fryer?

Yes, frozen biscuits can be cooked in the Power XL air fryer. There’s no need to thaw them first. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, typically around 10-12 minutes at 330°F, and check for doneness. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the size and brand of the frozen biscuits.

How Can I Tell When Biscuits Are Done In The Power XL Air Fryer?

Biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top, firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the biscuits need more time, continue to cook in 2-minute intervals until they reach the desired color and texture.