How To Cook Pillsbury Biscuits In Air Fryer [FULL GUIDE]

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Air fryers have transformed the way we approach quick and convenient cooking. With their rapid circulation of hot air, these compact kitchen marvels can achieve the crispiness of deep-fried foods while using minimal oil. One of the most beloved staples for air fryer enthusiasts is the Pillsbury biscuit. Whether you’re aiming for a soft, fluffy breakfast treat or a golden, slightly crispy snack, air frying Pillsbury biscuits can be a game-changer. Unlike conventional oven baking, air fryers can reduce cooking time, provide even browning, and create a delectably tender inside with a lightly crisped exterior. But mastering the exact temperature and timing is crucial to ensure that your biscuits come out perfect every time.

Optimal Air Fryer Temperature To Cook Pillsbury Biscuits In Air Fryer

Temperature is the linchpin for achieving perfectly cooked Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer. The recommended temperature to air fry these biscuits is 350°F (175°C). This temperature is hot enough to promote even browning and puffing, yet gentle enough to prevent the exterior from burning while the interior remains undercooked. Unlike ovens, air fryers heat much more efficiently, so it’s essential to stick closely to the recommended temperature to avoid over-browning or uneven cooking. Some enthusiasts may experiment with slightly higher temperatures, like 360-375°F, for a crispier top, but doing so requires vigilant monitoring to prevent a burnt surface.

How Long To Cook Pillsbury Biscuits In Air Fryer

Cooking time in an air fryer is just as crucial as temperature. For standard Pillsbury biscuits, the ideal air fryer cooking time is 8-10 minutes. Thicker biscuits may require closer to 10 minutes, while thinner varieties may be done around 7-8 minutes. Unlike traditional oven baking, air fryers cook rapidly due to the concentrated hot air circulation, so the biscuits can go from golden brown to overdone very quickly. It’s recommended to check them at the 7-minute mark for a visual assessment and adjust accordingly.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining if your Pillsbury biscuits are perfectly cooked involves both visual and tactile cues:

1. Color – The tops should be a rich golden brown. Avoid waiting until they appear deeply browned, which can indicate overcooking.
2. Texture – Gently press the top of a biscuit; it should spring back slightly. If it feels doughy or sinks, it needs more time.
3. Bottom check – Carefully lift a biscuit to inspect the bottom. It should be lightly golden, not raw or doughy.
4. Internal softness – When torn apart, the biscuit should appear fluffy with no uncooked dough streaks.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer is incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients:

• Pillsbury Biscuits – Any standard variety (buttermilk, flaky layers, or southern-style).
• Optional Add-ons – Butter or cinnamon sugar for brushing, if desired.
• Cooking spray – Only if your air fryer basket tends to stick, though many nonstick baskets won’t require it.

No complicated ingredients are needed, which makes air fryer biscuits a quick, fuss-free treat.

How To Cook Pillsbury Biscuits In Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Biscuits – Open the can of Pillsbury biscuits and separate each piece. Optionally, lightly spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
3. Place in Basket – Arrange biscuits in a single layer with slight spacing; do not overcrowd as this can affect airflow and even cooking.
4. Cook – Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Monitor during the last 2 minutes to achieve the desired golden brown finish.
5. Check Doneness – Use visual and tactile checks as described above.
6. Serve – Remove carefully with tongs and optionally brush with melted butter. Serve warm for maximum enjoyment.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Temperature?

Altering the temperature can drastically change the outcome:

• Lower Temperature (325°F / 165°C) – Biscuits may take longer to cook (up to 12 minutes) and may not brown as evenly. They will be softer, but risk being slightly undercooked inside if not monitored.
• Higher Temperature (375-400°F / 190-205°C) – Biscuits cook faster but are prone to burning on the outside while remaining doughy inside. If using higher temperatures, reduce cooking time and check frequently.

Consistency is key; deviations require careful adjustments and frequent observation.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Cooking Time?

Changing cooking time can affect both texture and flavor:

• Shorter Time (<8 minutes) – Biscuits may appear pale, be undercooked, and lack the signature flakiness.
• Longer Time (>10 minutes) – Biscuits risk becoming hard, dry, or overly browned. Even a minute or two can be the difference between perfection and a slightly overdone biscuit due to the efficiency of air fryers.

Always check periodically when deviating from recommended times.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with careful preparation, mishaps can occur:

• Biscuits Stuck Together – Often caused by overcrowding; cook in batches instead.
• Undercooked Biscuits – Reduce biscuit thickness slightly or increase cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
• Over-Browned or Hard Biscuits – Lower the temperature slightly and check earlier next time; brushing with butter after cooking can add moisture.
• Uneven Cooking – Shake the basket halfway through or rotate biscuits to ensure even air circulation.

Mistakes are learning opportunities-air fryer biscuits are forgiving with minor adjustments.

Expert Tips

1. Preheat for consistency – A preheated air fryer ensures even rising and browning.
2. Avoid overcrowding – Biscuits need space for air circulation; otherwise, they may cook unevenly.
3. Rotate for perfection – Halfway through cooking, rotate the basket or flip biscuits if your air fryer tends to cook unevenly.
4. Brush after cooking – Melted butter brushed immediately after air frying adds flavor and enhances browning.
5. Experiment with varieties – Different Pillsbury biscuit types may require slight time adjustments due to thickness or dough consistency.

FAQs

Can Pillsbury Biscuits Be Cooked Directly In An Air Fryer Without Oil?

Yes, Pillsbury biscuits can be cooked directly in an air fryer without additional oil. The non-stick surface of most air fryer baskets prevents sticking. However, lightly spraying the basket with cooking spray can help ensure easy removal and prevent any possible sticking.

What Temperature Should I Set My Air Fryer To Cook Pillsbury Biscuits?

The recommended temperature for cooking Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer is generally 350°F (175°C). This allows the biscuits to cook evenly and develop a golden-brown exterior without burning.

How Long Should Pillsbury Biscuits Be Cooked In The Air Fryer?

Cooking time typically ranges from 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the size and type of biscuit. Smaller or thinner biscuits may cook closer to 8 minutes, while larger or flaky varieties may require up to 12 minutes. It is recommended to check for a golden-brown top and a fully cooked interior.

Do I Need To Preheat The Air Fryer Before Cooking Biscuits?

Preheating the air fryer is recommended for consistent results. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes before placing the biscuits inside. This helps the biscuits start baking immediately, resulting in a better rise and evenly cooked texture.

Should Pillsbury Biscuits Be Flipped During Air Frying?

In most cases, flipping is not necessary. Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, promoting even cooking on all sides. However, if your air fryer has hot spots or you notice uneven browning, flipping the biscuits halfway through the cooking time can help.

Can I Cook Multiple Pillsbury Biscuits At Once In The Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook multiple biscuits at once, but it is important to leave space between them for proper air circulation. Crowding the basket can prevent the biscuits from cooking evenly and achieving a golden-brown texture.

How Do I Know When Pillsbury Biscuits Are Done In The Air Fryer?

Biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top, slightly firm to the touch, and fully risen. You can test doneness by gently pressing the center; it should spring back slightly. Avoid opening the air fryer too early, as this can lower the temperature and affect the final texture.