Go Back

Air Fryer Croissants Recipe

Air Fryer Croissants are buttery, flaky, and golden on the outside with soft, tender layers inside. Making croissants in the air fryer is a convenient way to enjoy a warm bakery-style breakfast without turning on the oven.
This easy recipe uses refrigerated crescent dough for a quicker homemade version that requires minimal preparation. Serve the croissants warm with butter, jam, honey, or your favorite breakfast fillings for a simple morning treat.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine French-inspired
Servings 8 people
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Measuring spoons
  • Parchment paper suitable for air fryers (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough 8 ounces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • Powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Dough: Remove the refrigerated crescent dough from its packaging and unroll it onto a clean surface. Separate the dough along the perforated lines into 8 triangles. Keep the dough chilled until you are ready to shape it so it remains easy to handle.
  • Shape the Croissants: Starting at the wide end of each triangle, gently roll the dough toward the pointed tip. Place the pointed end underneath and curve the edges slightly inward to create a crescent shape.
  • Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until smooth. This mixture will help the croissants develop a golden surface during cooking.
  • Brush with Butter: Lightly brush each shaped croissant with melted butter. If you prefer a slightly sweeter finish, mix the granulated sugar and vanilla extract into the melted butter before brushing.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 320°F for about 3 minutes, if your model requires preheating. Lightly grease the basket or use an air fryer-safe parchment liner.
  • Arrange the Croissants: Place the croissants in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for expansion. Brush the tops lightly with egg wash. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Air Fry Until Golden: Air fry at 320°F for 8–12 minutes, checking around the 8-minute mark. Cook until the croissants are puffed and golden brown. Cooking time may vary depending on their size and your air fryer model.
  • Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the croissants from the basket and let them rest for 2–3 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with your favorite spreads.

Notes

  • Avoid overcrowding: Leave enough room between the croissants so hot air can circulate and the dough can expand.
  • Check early: Air fryers vary in temperature and airflow, so check the croissants before the suggested cooking time ends.
  • Adjust the sweetness: Skip the sugar and vanilla for a more traditional buttery flavor.
  • Storage: Store cooled croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Warm them in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes to refresh the flaky texture.