Air Fryers for Easy Baking
Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years for their ability to fry food with little to no oil. But did you know that they are also great for baking? That’s right, air fryers can be used for much more than just frying up your favorite guilty pleasures. In fact, they are a great tool for making delicious and healthy baked goods. In this article, we’ll explore how air fryers can be used for easy baking and share some mouthwatering recipes to get you started.
What is an Air Fryer?
In case you’re not familiar with air fryers, let’s do a quick rundown. An air fryer is a countertop kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food. It works by circulating hot air around the food, similar to a convection oven. This method of cooking produces crispy and evenly cooked food without the need for excessive oil. Air fryers come in different sizes and have various settings, making them versatile for different types of cooking.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Baking?
When we think of baking, we usually think of using an oven. However, using an air fryer for baking has some significant advantages. First and foremost, it is a healthier option. Baking in an air fryer requires little to no oil, making it a great option for those trying to cut back on unhealthy fats. Additionally, air fryers heat up quickly, making them a more energy-efficient option compared to ovens. Plus, they are small and compact, making them perfect for those with limited kitchen space.
Air Fryer Baking Tips
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Just like with an oven, it’s essential to preheat your air fryer before baking. This will ensure that your food cooks evenly and reduces the overall cooking time. Preheating can take around 3-5 minutes, depending on the model.
2. Use Parchment Paper
Air fryers tend to stick, so using parchment paper is a wise choice when baking. It will prevent your baked goods from sticking to the basket or tray and make the cleaning process much more manageable.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
It’s tempting to try and fit as much food as possible into the air fryer basket, but overcrowding can result in unevenly cooked food. Make sure to leave enough space between food items so that hot air can circulate evenly.
4. Rotate the Food
While air fryers are great at producing even cooking, it’s still a good idea to rotate the food halfway through the cooking process. This will ensure that all sides are evenly cooked.
5. Experiment with Baking Time and Temperature
Every air fryer is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the cooking times and temperatures for your baked goods. Keep note of what works for each recipe so you can use it again in the future.
Air Fryer Baking Recipes
1. Easy Apple Pie Filling Turnovers
If you’re craving a sweet treat, these apple pie turnovers are sure to hit the spot. Cut puff pastry into squares and fill each with apple pie filling. Fold into triangles and seal the edges. Brush with beaten egg and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
2. Garlic and Herb Dinner Rolls
These delicious dinner rolls take minutes to prepare and require no kneading or rising. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Add milk and melted butter and mix until dough forms. Roll into small balls and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
3. Avocado Fries
This healthier alternative to French fries is sure to be a hit. Cut avocados into wedges, dip in beaten egg, then coat in a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
No need for an oven to make this classic baked good. Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, and beaten egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in chocolate chips. Pour batter into the greased air fryer basket and cook at 355°F for 30 minutes.
The Possibilities are Endless
These are just a few examples of what can be created using an air fryer for baking. The possibilities are endless, and with some experimentation, you can create your own unique and delicious recipes. So dust off your air fryer and get ready to bake up some tasty treats.
