Hot Pockets: Air Fryer Heating Guide

Hot Pockets are a popular snack food, but the best way to cook them is a topic of much debate. While some people swear by the microwave, others prefer to use an air fryer for a crispier result. Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, and many people are turning to them to cook their Hot Pockets. The air fryer method produces a golden brown crust and a gooey, hot filling.

How to make hot pockets in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 can crescent roll dough
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup ham
• 1 egg
• Water

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
• Open the crescent roll tube and unroll the pastry. Separate the four perforated rectangles and pinch together the triangle seams in the center of each one to create four rectangles of crescent pastry dough.
• Place 1/4 cup of cheese and 1/4 cup of ham down the center of each piece.
• Stretch the edges of the dough so that there is no ham or cheese near the edges. Then, fold over each rectangle (long side to long side) and use a fork to press the edges together.
• Line the bottom of the air fryer with parchment paper and spray it with oil.
• Brush both sides of each pocket with the beaten egg/water mixture.
• Place as many pockets as will fit with space between them in the air fryer basket. Two at a time is better because they are easier to flip if they are not crowded in the basket. But, you must flip the pastries or the bottom side won't cook properly and you will have a gooey base.
• Bake for 5 minutes, then flip them and bake for another 5 minutes.
• Be sure to leave space between your hot pockets in the air fryer. The crust will puff up slightly, and you want the hot air to touch your dough so it can get flaky and golden.
• Every air fryer cooks a little differently, so keep an eye on these as they’re cooking. Watch for the dough to turn a perfect golden brown color. If they start to look overcooked, remove them from the air fryer.

Tips:

• The parchment paper helps to stop the hot pockets from sticking to the bottom of the air fryer basket. If you don’t have any, spray the basket well and try to lift them off the bottom a few times throughout the cooking process.
• If you want to make one big hot pocket, you can press two pieces of dough together and fill it up with twice the ingredients!
• You can also purchase frozen hot pockets and cook them in the air fryer at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. They will be crispier than when microwaved and much faster than cooking them in the oven!

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature and time for cooking Hot Pockets in an air fryer is a subject of some debate, with different sources suggesting slightly different approaches. However, the general consensus is that cooking Hot Pockets in an air fryer yields better results than using a microwave or a conventional oven.

Air Fryer Temperature

Most sources recommend setting your air fryer to 350°F to 360°F when cooking Hot Pockets. However, some sources suggest slightly lower or higher temperatures, ranging from 350°F to 390°F. It is worth noting that the official Hot Pockets website recommends a temperature of 360°F for one sandwich and 350°F for two sandwiches.

Air Fryer Time

The cooking time for Hot Pockets in an air fryer can vary depending on the number of sandwiches being cooked and the desired level of crispiness. On average, cooking a single Hot Pocket in an air fryer takes around 11 to 15 minutes. For two sandwiches, the cooking time is typically extended by a few minutes, ranging from 13 to 17 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the Hot Pockets while they are cooking, as the exact time may vary depending on your air fryer and the desired level of doneness.

Tips for Optimal Results

• Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
• Place the Hot Pockets in a single layer, without the crisper sleeve, to allow for even cooking and extra crispiness.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
• Flip the Hot Pockets halfway through the cooking process for more even results.
• Let the Hot Pockets cool for at least 5 minutes after cooking, as the filling can be extremely hot.
• Experiment with different flavors and toppings to find your favorite combination.

How to make frozen hot pockets in an air fryer

Making hot pockets in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this snack. The air fryer method ensures a crunchy exterior and a gooey, hot filling.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Hot Pockets

Place the frozen hot pockets, top side up, in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching each other and leave some space for the hot air to circulate. There is no need to spray the basket with cooking spray or oil as the hot pockets will not stick.

Step 3: Cook the Hot Pockets

Cook for 13-15 minutes, or until the hot pockets are golden brown on the outside and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. For two hot pockets, you may need to cook for a few minutes longer, up to 18 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Let the hot pockets cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth. Enjoy your hot pockets as a snack or a meal! They can be served as is or with a side salad, chips, air fryer waffle fries, or fruit for a more balanced meal.

Tips and Tricks:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each hot pocket enough room to breathe for the best results.
• Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure your hot pocket is fully cooked.
• Experiment with different types and flavors of hot pockets, and get creative with additional toppings and sauces!
• Try sprinkling some extra cheese on top of the hot pockets before air frying for a gooey finish.
• Add some herbs or spices to the crust before cooking for extra flavor.
• Drizzle with olive oil for a shiny finish.
• Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds for added crunch.
• Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating:

If you have any leftover hot pockets, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap the hot pockets in parchment paper and cook at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until the inside is hot and the cheese is melted.

Enjoy your crispy and delicious hot pockets!

How to store and reheat hot pockets

Hot Pockets are a convenient snack, but getting the temperature right can be a challenge. The manufacturer's instructions suggest baking in an oven at 350 degrees for 28 minutes, or two minutes in the microwave. However, some people find these methods unsuccessful.

One popular method is to cook the Hot Pocket in the microwave for 75% of the suggested time, then shake it so that the hot filling mixes with the colder parts. Then, put it back in the microwave for the remaining time.

Another option is to cook your Hot Pocket in an air fryer. This method is said to produce a perfectly hot, crispy Hot Pocket. To do this, place the Hot Pocket in the air fryer on some parchment paper, and cook at 350 degrees for around 10 minutes. Use a thermometer to ensure it is cooked through.

If you have any leftover Hot Pockets, you can store them in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze them, again wrapped tightly, for up to three months.

To reheat a Hot Pocket, allow it to thaw first if frozen. Then, wrap it in parchment paper and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

What to serve with hot pockets

Hot Pockets are a convenient snack, and they can be made even more delicious with some tasty sides. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your Hot Pockets:

Dips

Hot Pockets can be dipped in almost anything! For ham and cheese hot pockets, try ranch dressing, mustard, salsa, pizza sauce, or BBQ sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with other dips like honey mustard, guacamole, or a creamy garlic sauce.

Salads

A fresh, crisp salad can complement the warm, flaky crust of a Hot Pocket. Try a classic garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favourite dressing. Or, for something more substantial, add in some grilled chicken, bacon bits, or boiled eggs.

Vegetables

Roasted or steamed vegetables can make a great side dish. Try carrots, broccoli, green beans, or cauliflower. If you're feeling creative, experiment with different seasonings and sauces to elevate your veggies.

Chips

For a classic, comforting combination, serve your Hot Pocket with a side of crispy chips. Go for a straight-cut or crinkle-cut variety, or opt for something more unique like sweet potato or beetroot chips.

Fruits

Fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the savoury flavours of a Hot Pocket. Try sliced apples, pears, or stone fruits. For a more tropical vibe, offer some pineapple, mango, or papaya chunks.

Drinks

Don't forget to offer some refreshing drinks to wash down those Hot Pockets! Iced tea, lemonade, or fruit juices can all pair well with this snack.

So, the next time you're enjoying a Hot Pocket, whether it's straight from the air fryer or not, try pairing it with one of these delicious sides to take your snack to the next level!

Frequently asked questions