Air-Fried Pop-Tarts: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

Pop-Tarts are a popular breakfast snack, but many people wonder if they can be cooked in an air fryer. The answer is yes! Air fryer Pop-Tarts are a quick and easy way to enjoy this childhood classic with a golden, crispy crust and a warm, sweet filling. You can use either a basket or tray-style air fryer and cook them at 350-400°F for 2-4 minutes, depending on the number of Pop-Tarts and your air fryer model. You can also make homemade Pop-Tarts in an air fryer, and there are various recipes available, including brown sugar and cinnamon, apple hand pies, and strawberry jam with a butter and vanilla glaze.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an essential step in the process of making Pop-Tarts. It ensures that your pastry treats cook evenly and efficiently. Most sources recommend preheating your air fryer to 400°F for at least 3 minutes. However, it is important to refer to your specific air fryer model's instructions, as preheating times may vary. For instance, some models have a preheat button that simplifies the process.

When preheating, it is crucial to ensure that your air fryer basket or tray is also preheated. This helps to ensure that your Pop-Tarts cook through properly and don't become soggy. It is recommended to spray the basket with cooking spray before placing your Pop-Tarts inside.

The preheating time can also depend on whether you are cooking homemade or premade Pop-Tarts. Homemade Pop-Tarts may require a slightly different cooking time, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on them and adjust the timing accordingly.

Additionally, the size of your air fryer will determine how many Pop-Tarts you can cook at once. A 6-quart basket model typically fits 2-3 Pop-Tarts, while a tray-style air fryer can accommodate 4-6, depending on the size of your air fryer and the Pop-Tarts themselves. It is important to ensure that the Pop-Tarts are placed in a single layer, with some space between each one, to allow for even cooking.

How to layer the pop tarts

To layer your pop tarts, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, you will need to decide on the flavour of your pop tarts. Classic strawberry pop tarts are a popular choice, but you can also opt for brown sugar cinnamon, or fill your pop tarts with any flavour of jam you like. If you are making your own pop tarts, you can even fill them with Nutella!

Next, you will need to prepare your pie crust. You can either make your own or use a pre-made one. If you are making your own, roll out the dough and cut it into rectangles. You can use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to do this. If you are using a pre-made pie crust, let it come to room temperature before using it.

Now it's time to layer the fillings. Spoon your desired filling onto one end of each rectangle. You can fill them with jam, Nutella, or a mixture of fruit jam and cornstarch. If you are using jam, you can brush a mixture of egg and cornstarch onto the edges of the pastry to prevent the jam from leaking out.

Once the fillings are in place, it's time to layer the top pastry. Lay the top layer of pastry directly over the bottom layer, and crimp the edges together. You can use a fork to create a decorative edge and ensure that the two layers are well-sealed.

At this point, you can also add an egg wash to the top of the pastry to give it a glossy finish. Simply beat an egg and brush it onto the surface of the pastry.

Finally, you can add any desired toppings, such as sugar sprinkles.

And there you have it! Your pop tarts are now layered and ready to be baked or air-fried.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for pop tarts in an air fryer vary depending on the number of pop tarts, the air fryer design, and whether the air fryer has been preheated.

It is recommended to preheat the air fryer for at least 3 minutes, or according to the manufacturer's instructions. The desired amount of pop tarts should be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, without overlapping them. The cooking time is generally between 2 and 5 minutes, with most sources recommending cooking the pop tarts for 3 to 4 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the pop tarts to ensure they do not burn, and the ideal cooking time may vary depending on the desired level of browning and crispness.

For homemade pop tarts, the cooking time may differ from pre-made pop tarts, and some experimentation may be required. Reheating pre-made pop tarts in the air fryer can be done in about 3 to 5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

When cooking pop tarts in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that they are not stacked or layered, as this can create excess moisture and prevent even cooking. The ideal temperature for cooking pop tarts in an air fryer is generally considered to be around 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to make the glaze

Yes, you can cook store-bought or homemade pop tarts in an air fryer. The air fryer is perfect for heating the filling and achieving golden, crispy pastry.

To make the glaze for your pop tarts, you will need powdered sugar, milk or cream, and optional flavourings such as vanilla or cinnamon. You can also add sprinkles or other toppings of your choice.

Firstly, remove the pop tarts from the air fryer and let them cool before glazing. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or cream. Add more milk or cream to thin the glaze to your desired consistency. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavour.

Once you have a smooth, shiny glaze, spoon it over the tops of the cooled tarts. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before serving. If you want to warm the glazed pop tarts, place them back in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Feel free to experiment with different flavour combinations and toppings to create your perfect pop tart!

Flavours to try

There are so many Pop-Tart flavours to choose from, and they all work in the air fryer! You can try strawberry, cinnamon, blueberry, brown sugar, cherry, fudge, chocolate chip, cookie dough, raspberry, s'mores, salted caramel, peach cobbler, banana cream pie, or lemon.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own pop tarts at home and then cook them in the air fryer. Some recipes include brown sugar and cinnamon pop tarts, or strawberry pop tarts made with pre-made refrigerated pie crusts, strawberry jam, and a glaze made from powdered sugar, heavy cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Don't forget the sprinkles!

You can also experiment with different fillings and glazes to create your own unique flavours. The possibilities are endless!

Frequently asked questions