Air-Fried Waffles: A Quick, Easy Breakfast Treat

Yes, you can cook waffles in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy way to cook frozen waffles, giving you crispy waffles every time. The air fryer can cook several waffles at once and can also be used to cook other foods, making it a convenient appliance to have in your kitchen. The cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the brand of air fryer and the size and thickness of the waffles, but generally, you can cook frozen waffles at 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes, flip them, and then cook for another 1-3 minutes until they are crispy to your liking.

Waffle toppings

Yes, you can cook waffles in an air fryer! Simply preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and place your frozen waffles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Some overlap is okay, but this will help the waffles cook evenly and get crispy on all sides. For smaller waffles, you may need less cooking time. Spray the basket with olive oil if needed.

Now, onto the fun part—the toppings! If you're craving something sweet, a classic choice is maple syrup. But not just any maple syrup—opt for the good stuff, like pure Canadian maple syrup. Or, get creative and make your own homemade syrup. Try a maple cream cheese syrup or a brown sugar butter syrup. Fruit lovers can top their waffles with sliced fresh strawberries, blueberries, bananas, or peaches. For something extra special, make a strawberry compote with a hint of lemon or cook peaches in a light sauce made with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of bourbon. Peanut butter syrup, lemon curd, and chocolate syrup are also mouth-watering options.

If you're feeling indulgent, why not try a waffle sundae with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup? Or, for a unique combination, try a waffle sandwich with peanut butter and jelly. For a savory option, top your waffle with crispy bacon, fried or poached eggs, smoked salmon, avocado slices, or sautéed vegetables.

Get creative and experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination!

Air fryer temperature

Yes, you can cook waffles in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy way to make crispy waffles. The air fryer can cook several waffles at once, and it also eliminates the problem of unevenly toasted waffles.

To cook frozen waffles in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. You can prepare the air fryer basket with olive oil spray if needed. Place the frozen waffles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It is okay if the waffles overlap slightly, but try to keep them as close to a single layer as possible to ensure they cook evenly.

Air fry the frozen waffles for 3 to 6 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness. Flip the waffles halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides. After flipping, cook the waffles for another 1 to 3 minutes. The total cooking time should not exceed 5 minutes, or the waffles may lose their soft, fluffy interior.

The cooking time may vary depending on the brand of air fryer, the size and thickness of the waffles, and the desired level of crispiness. For smaller or thinner waffles, reduce the cooking time. For thicker waffles, you may need to add an extra minute to the cooking time to achieve the desired crispiness.

Once the waffles are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as butter, maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate syrup.

Air fryer vs toaster

Waffles are a versatile breakfast option that can be topped with anything from sweet maple syrup to savoury bacon and eggs. While waffles are typically made in a waffle iron, they can also be cooked in an air fryer or a toaster.

Air Fryer

Air fryers cook with circulated hot air, which crisps up the outside of the waffle while leaving the inside soft and fluffy. They can cook several waffles at once and perform multiple functions, including cooking, roasting, steaming, and toasting. Air fryers can cook frozen waffles in as little as 5 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness. To cook frozen waffles in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit and place the waffles in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3 minutes, flip, and then cook for an additional 1-3 minutes. Serve immediately with your desired toppings.

Toaster

Toasters are a traditional appliance used to cook waffles, but they have limitations. They are designed with wire sheets that heat up, which can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy texture compared to air fryers. Toasters are also limited by the number of slots available, making them less suitable for cooking multiple waffles at once. However, they are easy to use and convenient for making a quick breakfast.

Comparison

Both air fryers and toasters can be used to cook waffles, but they have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Air fryers provide more even cooking, a crispier texture, and the ability to cook multiple waffles simultaneously. On the other hand, toasters are simple to use and ideal for a quick breakfast, but they may not produce as consistent or crispy results as air fryers. Ultimately, the choice between using an air fryer or a toaster depends on individual preferences, the desired level of crispiness, and the number of waffles being cooked.

Waffle overlap in the air fryer

Waffles can be cooked in an air fryer and it is recommended to place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. However, some sources say that it is okay if the waffles overlap slightly, but they should be as close to a single layer as possible. This helps the waffles cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

If you are cooking frozen waffles, it is important to note that they should be frozen and not thawed. This is because if they are thawed, they can become soggy. Place the frozen waffles in the air fryer basket and cook at 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. Then, flip the waffles and cook for an additional 1-3 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. For thicker waffles, you may need to add an extra minute of cooking time.

If you are cooking more than one batch, it is recommended to transfer the cooked waffles to an oven-safe platter and store them in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit until you are ready to serve. You can also store leftover waffles in an airtight container or plastic bag in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Waffles cooked in an air fryer can be served with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savoury. Some popular sweet toppings include maple syrup, butter, fresh fruit, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and crushed nuts. For a savoury option, you can top your waffles with crispy bacon, fried or poached eggs, smoked salmon, avocado slices, or sautéed vegetables.

Waffle cooking time

The cooking time for waffles in an air fryer can vary based on the model of the air fryer and the thickness of the waffles. Typically, it takes about 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It is recommended to start checking the waffles around the 5-minute mark to ensure they do not overcook.

For frozen waffles, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 3 minutes. Then, flip the waffles and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, depending on how crispy you like them. It is important not to cook them for longer than 5 minutes in total, as they may become too crunchy and lose their soft, fluffy interior.

If you are cooking thicker waffles, such as Belgian waffles, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and hot in the center.

When cooking homemade waffles in an air fryer, it is important to use a silicone mold that fits inside the air fryer basket. The cooking time may vary, so it is recommended to check the waffles periodically. They are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and they should lift easily from the basket or mold without sticking.

Additionally, the air fryer can be used to reheat waffles. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently asked questions