Making biscuits in the air fryer produces a tender flaky biscuit with crispy browned bits on the outside and it takes less time than baking them in the oven. A perfect side for breakfast or use to make strawberry shortcake.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
Stir in the shredded butter and using a pastry blender, work the butter into the flour mixture.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then stir the buttermilk into the flour mixture, stirring until dough begins to form.
Add cheese (if using). Do not overmix the dough.
Sprinkle a hard dry surface with flour. Transfer the biscuit dough to the floured surface and pat dough out into a rectangle. Fold dough in half and gently pat down until dough is about ½ inch thick.
Cut biscuits using a round biscuit cutter or using a pastry cutter, cut into 12 equal squares.
Transfer biscuits air fryer basket in a single layer and brush tops with melted butter. Depending on the size of the air fryer, you may need to bake the biscuits in two batches.
Place basket in the air fryer and cook at 390 for 9 minutes, or biscuit is puffed and tops are golden brown. Serve warm.