Frying Dough In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Frying dough is a fast and delicious way to make a treat for the whole family. But can you use an air fryer?

The good news is, yes, you can! Using an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, reducing the amount of oil needed while still achieving a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. However, the type of dough you use is important. Soft, wet doughs like those used for churros or liquid batters are not suitable for air frying and will make a mess. Instead, opt for a drier, sturdier dough that holds its shape well, such as pizza dough or cookie dough.

So, if you're looking for a fun and easy way to make fried dough treats, get out your air fryer and give it a go!

Dough preparation

The dough preparation method will vary depending on the type of dough you are using. You can make your own dough from scratch or use pre-made dough, such as biscuit, croissant, or pizza dough. Here are some general instructions for preparing dough for air frying:

Making Dough from Scratch

If you want to make your own dough, you will typically need the following ingredients:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar
• Milk
• Butter
• Vanilla extract

First, mix all the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar) in a large bowl. Then, add the wet ingredients (melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract) and mix until combined. Transfer the dough to a board or flat surface and knead it with your hands for a few minutes. Form the dough into a ball and let it rest for about 10 minutes.

After resting, divide the dough into equal pieces, depending on the number of servings you desire. Roll out each piece of dough to your desired thickness, usually around 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick.

Using Pre-made Dough

If you are using pre-made dough, such as refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, simply remove them from the can and lay them out on a large cutting board. Gently flatten each biscuit into larger circles using a rolling pin. This step will help them cook more evenly and provide a larger surface area for toppings.

Air Frying Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) if your model requires preheating. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or brush it with melted butter to prevent sticking. Place the flattened dough into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the dough in batches.

Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F for about 5 minutes. After this initial cooking period, flip the dough and continue air frying for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Once cooked, remove the fried dough from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. You can brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with toppings such as cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or other sweet or savory toppings of your choice.

Air fryer settings

To cook fried dough in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) if your model requires preheating. This will ensure the dough cooks evenly and becomes perfectly golden. If you are cooking in batches, you may need to preheat the air fryer in between batches.

Brush the air fryer basket with melted butter or spray it lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper, but make sure it is perforated or add holes to allow airflow.

Place the dough in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the dough in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent the dough from cooking evenly and achieving the desired crispy texture.

Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, flip the dough and continue to air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until it is golden brown and puffed up.

Once cooked, carefully remove the fried dough from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate.

Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can place the leftovers in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the dough soggy.

Frying technique

Air fryers are a great alternative to deep frying, offering a healthier way to cook with less oil. However, not all foods are suitable for air frying, and the technique has its limitations. For example, soft doughs that are typically dropped into hot oil won't work in an air fryer as they need the high temperature of the oil to hold their shape.

To successfully fry dough in an air fryer, you need to use a dry, sturdy dough that holds its shape well. The dough should be dry and not too moist, as this can cause a mess in the air fryer and affect the final texture.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing your dry ingredients in a large bowl. This includes all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. You can also add other dry ingredients like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavour.

Next, add your wet ingredients: melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined. You can also use plant-based milk and butter for a vegan option.

Step 2: Knead and Rest the Dough

Transfer the dough to a board or flat surface and knead it with your hands for a few minutes. This helps to develop the gluten and creates a smooth, elastic dough. Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to roll out.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into 8-16 pieces, depending on the size you want. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick. You can use a rolling pin to ensure an even thickness.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175-177°C). It's important to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and browning. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or brush it with melted butter to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Fry the Dough

Place the flattened dough circles into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Fry the dough for about 5 minutes, then flip it over and continue air frying for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6: Brush and Top the Fried Dough

Once the dough is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. While it's still warm, brush each piece with melted butter to add richness and help the toppings stick.

For a sweet option, sprinkle powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or a combination of both on top. You can also get creative with other toppings like Nutella, honey, maple syrup, or fruit jams. For a savoury twist, try brushing the dough with olive oil and sprinkling garlic salt, shredded cheese, or herbs on top.

Tips for Success:

• Even thickness: Aim for an even thickness when rolling out the dough to ensure uniform cooking and prevent under or overcooking.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the dough in batches to allow proper air circulation and achieve the desired crispy texture.
• Flip halfway through: Flip the dough halfway through the cooking time for even browning and cooking.
• Brush, don't soak: Gently coat the fried dough with melted butter using a pastry brush to avoid making the dough soggy.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to experiment with various sweet and savoury toppings to find your favourite combinations.

Storing and Reheating:

Fried dough is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, place the fried dough in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Now you're ready to fry dough like a pro in your air fryer! Enjoy experimenting with different flavours and textures to create delicious treats for your family and friends.

Dough shapes

Dough can be shaped in a variety of ways for air frying. Here are some options:

Flat Shapes

Roll the dough out into a flat shape, aiming for an even thickness of approximately 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. This helps the dough cook evenly and gives more surface area for toppings. You can cut the dough into circles, or leave it as a flat disc.

Dough Balls

Shape the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. This creates a bite-sized treat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller shapes will cook faster. Be sure to turn them halfway through for even cooking.

Dough Strips

Roll the dough into logs and cut them into strips. You can then twist the strips of dough and place them in the air fryer. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar before air frying.

Dough Boys/Doughnuts

Shape the dough into small circles or balls and fry them in the air fryer. You can then brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat, or olive oil and garlic salt for a savoury option.

Toppings and coatings

Sweet Options:

• Powdered Sugar: A classic choice, dusting your fried dough with powdered sugar adds a sweet and refined finish.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Mixing ground cinnamon with powdered sugar gives a warm, spicy note to your treat.
• Honey: Drizzle some honey over your fried dough for a golden touch.
• Chocolate: Indulge in your sweet tooth with chocolate sauce, chocolate chips, or even a chocolate-hazelnut spread like Nutella.
• Fruits: Go for a fruity twist with fruit jams or preserves, fresh berries, or fruit sauces like blueberry or apple.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy and indulgent touch.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle or dip your fried dough in maple syrup for a sweet and sticky treat.
• Lemon Sugar: Combine powdered sugar with lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Jelly or Jam: Warm your favourite jelly or jam and brush it over the fried dough for a simple yet satisfyingly sweet treat.
• Marshmallows: Spread some Nutella over your fried dough and top it with mini marshmallows, then pop it back in the air fryer for a few seconds to melt the marshmallows.
• Pumpkin Spice: Mix powdered sugar with pumpkin spice seasoning and sprinkle it over buttered fried dough for a fall-inspired treat.

Savoury Options:

• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar, or go for grated cheese such as Parmesan.
• Garlic: Brush your fried dough with garlic butter or olive oil and garlic salt for a savoury kick.
• Herbs: Chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro add a fresh and savoury touch.
• Pesto or Marinara Sauce: Spread some pesto or marinara sauce over your fried dough for an Italian-inspired treat.
• Meat: Top your fried dough with shredded chicken or pulled pork for a heartier option.
• Olives or Jalapeños: Add a briny touch with sliced olives or a spicy kick with jalapeños.

Unique Combinations:

• Peanut butter and banana slices
• Apple slices with caramel sauce
• Bacon bits with maple syrup
• Goat cheese and honey
• Smoked salmon and cream cheese

Frequently asked questions