Air Fryer Apple Pie: Frozen To Freshly Baked

Apple pie is a classic dessert, but baking it in an oven can be time-consuming. Luckily, you can cook a frozen apple pie in an air fryer in just minutes! This method is perfect for when you're short on time or don't want to heat up your kitchen with a traditional oven. The air fryer allows you to enjoy a delicious, crispy apple pie without the lengthy baking process. It's a quick, convenient, and tasty way to prepare this beloved dessert.

Preheat settings

Preheating your air fryer is essential for even cooking and achieving a golden, crispy crust. Most sources recommend preheating your air fryer to around 320°F–350°F (160°C–175°C) for 3–5 minutes. However, one source suggests a lower temperature of 310°F, while another suggests a higher temperature of 385°F.

The preheat temperature and time may vary slightly depending on the size and brand of your air fryer, so it's important to refer to your manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, it's worth noting that cooking times can vary, so it's a good idea to check on your pie occasionally and adjust the time as needed.

Once your air fryer is preheated, lightly grease the basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent your frozen pie from sticking. Alternatively, you can use baking paper cut to fit the basket. Then, gently place your frozen apple pie in the centre of the basket, ensuring it doesn't touch the sides or the top.

If you're cooking apple hand pies or slices, you can place several in the air fryer at once, but be sure to leave enough space between them for even cooking. Brush the tops with oil or beaten egg wash before cooking to achieve a golden brown finish.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for an apple pie in an air fryer depend on the size of the pie and the type of air fryer being used. It is important to note that not all air fryers are the same, and some may require different temperatures and cooking times.

For a small to medium-sized frozen apple pie, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in the basket and heat for 5-8 minutes, checking occasionally, until the pie is warmed through and the crust is crispy and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can spray the pie with a light coating of cooking oil before cooking.

For larger pies, you may need to cut them into slices or smaller pieces to fit in the air fryer. In this case, the cooking time will be shorter, and you should keep a close eye on the pie to ensure it doesn't burn.

Some sources suggest baking at a lower temperature, such as 320°F or 325°F, to prevent the crust from burning before the interior is cooked. At these temperatures, the cooking time will be longer, around 20-25 minutes. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pie, which should be 195°F when done.

If you are making mini apple pies, the temperature and cooking time will differ. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (175°C) or 385°F (195°C). Place the mini pies in the basket, leaving space around each for air circulation, and bake for 5-8 minutes, or until golden brown.

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the specific model of your air fryer, so it is always a good idea to check the manufacturer's instructions and adjust as needed.

Pie size and air fryer capacity

The size of your pie and the capacity of your air fryer are important factors to consider when cooking a frozen apple pie in an air fryer.

Firstly, it's crucial to ensure that your pie fits comfortably inside the air fryer with some space around the edges for air to circulate. If your pie is too large, you may need to cut it into slices or smaller pieces before cooking. It's worth noting that most air fryers can accommodate small to medium-sized frozen apple pies. Therefore, if you're planning to cook a large pie, it's advisable to check the dimensions of your air fryer to ensure it will fit.

Additionally, the size of your pie will impact the cooking time. Smaller pies, such as individual-sized pies or mini pies, will require less cooking time than a full-sized pie. For example, mini pies might only need 5 to 7 minutes in the air fryer, while a full-sized pie could take 15 to 25 minutes.

Furthermore, the size of your air fryer basket or cooking area will determine how many pies you can cook at once. If you're cooking multiple pies, you'll need to work in batches to ensure even cooking. Leave enough space around each pie for proper air circulation, as this is crucial for achieving the desired crispness and browning.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that the height of your pie can also be a factor. If your pie is particularly tall, you'll need to ensure that it fits comfortably inside the air fryer without touching any internal components, such as the heating element. In some cases, you may need to adjust the cooking time or temperature to ensure that the pie cooks thoroughly, especially if it's a deep-dish pie.

In summary, when cooking a frozen apple pie in an air fryer, it's important to consider the size of your pie in relation to the capacity of your air fryer. This will impact cooking times, the number of pies you can cook at once, and the overall cooking process.

Protecting the crust

Yes, you can cook a frozen apple pie in an air fryer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your pie turns out perfectly, especially when it comes to protecting the crust. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do just that:

First, it is important to note that the air fryer cooks food by circulating hot air around it, which can dry out the crust of your pie if it's not properly protected. One way to prevent this is by brushing the crust with a thin layer of butter or oil before cooking. This will help to create a barrier that locks in moisture and keeps the crust from drying out. You could also try using an egg wash, which will not only help protect the crust but also give it a golden, glossy finish.

Another way to protect the crust is by covering the pie with foil during cooking. This will help to prevent the top of the pie from burning or drying out while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly. Make sure to securely crimp the foil around the edges of the pie dish to ensure that the hot air doesn't sneak in and dry out the crust. You can remove the foil towards the end of the cooking time to allow the crust to brown and crisp up slightly.

The type of crust you use can also make a difference in how well it holds up in the air fryer. A thicker, more sturdy crust may be better suited for air frying as it is less likely to dry out or burn. If you're making your own crust, consider adding a little extra butter or shortening to the dough to increase the fat content, which will help to keep it moist and flaky.

Additionally, be mindful of the temperature and cooking time. Apple pie typically takes around 20-30 minutes to cook in an air fryer, but this can vary depending on the size and power of your air fryer, as well as the thickness of your pie. It is recommended to start with a lower temperature and increase it gradually to ensure that the crust doesn't burn. For example, you could start cooking your pie at around 325°F for 10 minutes and then increase the temperature to 350°F for the remaining time.

Finally, let the pie cool down completely before serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent it from spilling out when you cut into it. By following these tips, you can ensure that your frozen apple pie comes out of the air fryer with a delicious, flaky crust that complements the tasty filling.

Reheating

Thaw the Pie: Take the frozen apple pie out of the freezer and let it thaw partially. Place it on a counter or in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the pie's size. This step ensures that the pie is not rock-solid frozen, which helps in even cooking and prevents the filling from spilling out.

Frequently asked questions