Air Fryer Raw Dough: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient and versatile kitchen appliance that can cook a variety of dishes, including pizzas and fried dough treats. Using an air fryer to cook raw dough is possible, and it offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it requires less oil and cooks food more quickly and evenly. However, cooking raw dough in an air fryer can be challenging, and pre-cooking the dough may be necessary to ensure it is thoroughly cooked. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of cooking raw dough in an air fryer, including recipes for air fryer pizzas and fried dough desserts, and provide tips and tricks for achieving the best results.

Pizza dough cooking times

Yes, you can cook raw pizza dough in an air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the dough, the type of dough, whether sugars have been added, and the model of the air fryer.

For a 6-8" personal-sized pizza, roll out the pizza dough to the size of your air fryer basket. Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper, which will make it easier to transfer the pizza in and out of the air fryer. You can brush the dough with olive oil or garlic spread and prick it with a fork before cooking.

Air fry the base for 3 minutes, then flip it over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. You can then add your sauce and toppings. Place an air fryer rack on top of the pizza to prevent the toppings from blowing away. Air fry for another 4-5 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

If you are making multiple pizzas, you can pre-cook the bases and add the toppings later. This way, you can serve warm pizzas without overloading your air fryer.

Pre-cooking dough

The thickness of your dough will determine how long you need to pre-cook it for. Thinner crusts will cook faster and crisp up more quickly, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. It is recommended to roll out the dough to fit the size of your air fryer basket, then brush with olive oil and cook for around 3 minutes on each side. You can also prick the dough a few times with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.

If you are making multiple pizzas, it is a good idea to pre-cook all the crusts first, so they are ready to go when your guests arrive. They can then add their own toppings, and you can air fry the pizzas in batches. This way, you can serve warm, freshly made pizzas without the hassle of handling raw dough during the party.

Air fryer temperature

Yes, you can cook raw dough in an air fryer. The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air around the dough, cooking it evenly and quickly, is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior.

When cooking raw dough in an air fryer, the temperature and timing will depend on the type of dough and the desired outcome. For example, to make air fryer pizza with a crispy crust, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 375-380°F (190-193°C) for 4-5 minutes. Then, place the raw dough in the air fryer and cook for 3 minutes before flipping it over and adding toppings. The total cooking time for the pizza is about 7 minutes.

For other types of dough, such as sugared dough dippers, a lower temperature of 350°F is recommended. The dough is cut into strips, brushed with butter, and air-fried for 5 minutes. Then, the strips are flipped, brushed with butter again, and air-fried for an additional 3 minutes.

It is important to note that the thickness of the dough and the strength of the air fryer's fan can also impact the cooking time and temperature. Thicker dough may require a longer cooking time, and a stronger fan may cause toppings to fly off, so it is recommended to use an air fryer rack to prevent this.

Dough thickness

The thickness of the dough is crucial when cooking with an air fryer. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the dough, so it is important to adjust the timing accordingly. A thinner crust will cook faster and result in a crispier texture, while a thicker crust may require a longer cooking time.

For pizza dough, it is recommended to roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness ensures that the dough cooks evenly and provides a suitable base for toppings. Cooking times for pizza dough in an air fryer typically range from 2 to 7 minutes, depending on the desired crispness of the crust. It is also suggested to pre-cook the dough first and then add the toppings to ensure the crust is thoroughly cooked.

When making fried dough balls or twists, the dough should be flattened to a similar thickness of about 1/4-inch. This size allows for even cooking and a golden colour. Smaller shapes may cook faster, so it is important to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Additionally, the type of dough used can impact cooking times. Different doughs, such as pizza dough or homemade dough, will vary in texture and flavour. It is recommended to experiment with different types of dough to find the perfect air fryer treat.

Toppings

When it comes to toppings for your air-fried dough creations, the sky's the limit! You can go for sweet or savoury options, depending on your preference.

For a savoury treat, pizza is a popular choice. You can add your favourite pizza toppings to the crust, such as pepperoni, cooked sausage, cooked bacon, cooked diced ham, cooked chicken, sliced mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, pineapple, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, or any combination of these. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as red pizza sauce, white Alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, pesto, or salsa.

If you're in the mood for something sweet, you can top your air-fried dough with a variety of sweet toppings. A classic option is to dust the dough with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, creating a refined, mouth-watering finish. You can also drizzle honey, chocolate, or fruit sauces over the dough for a decadent touch. For an extra indulgent twist, brush the dough with melted butter to add a rich, luxurious flavour and help the toppings adhere.

For a fun and interactive gathering, consider setting up a pizza bar and letting your guests customise their own pizzas. Provide a variety of sauces, cheeses, and toppings, and take charge of the air fryer to ensure consistent cooking.

The versatility of air-fried dough allows you to experiment with different flavours and create unique treats that will impress your guests or bring joy to your family gatherings.

Frequently asked questions