Air Fryer Brownies: A Quick, Easy Treat?

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens for baking brownies. They are perfect for making small batches of brownies without having to turn on the oven. Air fryer brownies are also a great option for those who want to avoid heating up their house or don't need a large batch. They are quick and easy to make, with most recipes taking around 15-20 minutes to bake. The brownies turn out fudgy and gooey, with a thin, shiny, and chewy crust.

How to make brownies in an air fryer from a box mix

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to baking brownies in an oven. They are perfect for when you want a small batch of brownies and don't want to heat up the entire kitchen. Here is a guide on how to make brownies in an air fryer from a box mix:

Ingredients:

• Boxed Brownie Mix
• Eggs
• Vegetable Oil
• Water
• Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, caramel swirls, etc.

Method:

Step 1: Make the Brownie Batter

Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box and mix well.

Step 2: Spread the Batter Evenly

Prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the air fryer basket.

Step 3: Air Fry the Brownies

Set your air fryer to the "Air Fry" setting and cook the brownies at 320-350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-25 minutes. Check the brownies after 15 minutes and adjust the time as needed.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool before slicing and serving. You can also add toppings such as ice cream, whipped cream, or a chocolate drizzle.

Tips:

• Use room-temperature eggs for a lighter, fluffier brownie.
• Check on your brownies frequently, especially if you are using a thicker pan or a glass dish, as they may take longer to cook.
• Use parchment paper or aluminium foil to line your pan for easier removal and cutting.
• The brownies will continue to cook a bit after you take them out of the air fryer, so they are done when a knife inserted comes out with a few crumbs.

Tips for making brownies in an air fryer

Prepare Your Ingredients and Air Fryer

Before you start, ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. You will need a small bowl, a whisk or spoon, a baking pan that fits your air fryer (a 6-inch, 7-inch, or 8-inch pan is ideal), and, of course, an air fryer.

Grease Your Baking Pan

Generously grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial to ensure that your brownies don't stick to the pan and makes it easier to remove them once they're baked.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to around 320-340°F (160-170°C). The exact temperature may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so adjust accordingly. Allow the air fryer to preheat for about 5 minutes while you prepare the brownie batter.

Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine your dry ingredients, such as all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, mix together the wet ingredients, including melted butter or oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and water. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until you have a smooth and glossy batter. You can also add any mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel swirls, at this point.

Pour the Batter into the Pan and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top. Place the pan in the preheated air fryer and bake for 15-25 minutes. The baking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on your brownies. They are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

Allow to Cool Before Serving

Remove the brownies from the air fryer and let them cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting them into squares. This step is important, as it allows the brownies to firm up and sets their texture.

Storage and Serving

Air fryer brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days. You can also refrigerate them to give them a fudgier texture or freeze them for extended storage. Serve your brownies with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special treat!

The best type of pan to use for air fryer brownies

When making brownies in an air fryer, it is important to use a pan that is small enough to fit inside the appliance. A 6-inch or 7-inch pan is ideal, and you can use a round cake pan if a square brownie pan does not fit.

Metal pans are the best option as they cook faster than glass or silicone, and it is recommended to use a metal brownie pan if possible. If using a glass pan, be aware that the brownies will take longer to bake.

For a successful bake, it is also important to grease the pan generously with butter on the bottom and all sides.

How to prevent brownies from burning in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to ovens when it comes to baking brownies. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to prevent your brownies from burning. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect batch of air-fried brownies:

• Use the right pan: It is important to use a pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket without touching the sides. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking. A 7-inch pan is generally recommended for air fryers.
• Adjust the temperature: When baking in an air fryer, it is recommended to reduce the temperature by 30 degrees Fahrenheit compared to a conventional oven. For brownies, set your air fryer to 330-340 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Check frequently: Due to differences in air fryer models and wattage, baking times can vary significantly. Stay close to the air fryer and check on your brownies frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Use the toothpick test: Insert a toothpick into the centre of the brownies to check for doneness. The brownies are ready when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
• Cover with foil: If the top of your brownies starts to burn before the centre is cooked, loosely cover the pan with aluminium foil halfway through the cooking time. This will protect the surface while allowing the brownies to continue cooking.
• Allow to cool: Brownies will continue to cook and firm up as they cool. Therefore, it is important to allow them to cool completely before slicing to ensure they don't crumble.

How to store leftover brownies

If you have leftover brownies, there are several ways to store them to keep them fresh. Here are some tips on how to store leftover brownies:

Avoid Cutting Them:

If you plan on storing brownies, it is best not to cut them until you are ready to eat. When you cut brownies, you expose more of the brownie to air, which can make them dry out quickly. Instead, keep them in the tray, uncut, until you are ready to serve and eat them.

Keep Air Away:

Air is the enemy of fresh brownies, so you should wrap them tightly to prevent air circulation. Plastic wrap is the best option as it can be placed directly on the brownies and pulled tight. Foil is the second-best option, as it can be bent to fit the shape of the brownies. You can also use airtight containers, such as plastic containers with lids, or cookie jars, though these may not be as effective as plastic wrap or foil. For individual brownies, you can use Ziploc bags, which are convenient for grabbing a brownie when you want one!

Add a Slice of Bread:

If you are storing brownies in a container, you can add a slice of bread on top. The moisture from the bread will help keep the brownies soft and fresh for a few extra days. Replace the bread slice when it starts to dry out.

Store at Room Temperature:

Chocolate-based goods often taste best when stored at room temperature. Room temperature storage also keeps brownies soft and chewy. Brownies will stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature if stored properly.

Refrigerate for Longer Storage:

If you want to keep your brownies fresh for longer than a few days, wrap them tightly and place them in the fridge. When stored this way, brownies can last for about two weeks. You can eat the brownies chilled or let them come to room temperature before eating. If you take a brownie out of the fridge, be sure to re-wrap the rest to prevent the brownies from drying out.

Freeze for the Longest Storage:

If you want to keep brownies fresh for an extended period, the freezer is your best option. Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat them, let them thaw, still wrapped, at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to speed up the process.

Storing Brownies with Toppings and Mix-Ins:

Common mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts don't affect how you store your brownies, and you can choose your storage method based on how long you'll be storing them. However, if your brownies include perishable toppings or mix-ins, such as cream cheese or fresh fruit, they should be refrigerated and stored in an airtight container.

Frequently asked questions