Air Fryer Toll House Cookies: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

Toll House Cookies are a classic, and now you can make them in your air fryer! Whether you're using refrigerated or frozen cookie dough, you can have a batch of freshly baked cookies in under 15 minutes. Here's everything you need to know about making Toll House Cookies in your air fryer, from preparation to baking to storage.

Air fryer temperature and timings for Toll House cookies

The ideal air fryer temperature for Toll House cookies is around 300°F (150°C) to 325°F. However, you may need to adjust this slightly depending on your air fryer model and whether you want soft or crispy cookies. For example, you could try a temperature of 350°F for 5-6 minutes, but be aware that this may be too high.

It's best to cook the cookies for 7-8 minutes for a soft, melty texture, and 9-12 minutes for a crispier cookie. Check on the cookies regularly to ensure they don't overcook, as this can easily happen in an air fryer.

If you're using pre-made refrigerated cookie dough, 5 minutes at 325°F should be sufficient, and you can add a minute at a time until they're done to your liking.

For frozen cookie dough, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. If you're cooking just one cookie, 3 minutes should be enough.

When reheating cookies, the time and temperature will depend on whether they're frozen, refrigerated, or at room temperature. Frozen cookies need 3-4 minutes at 300°F, refrigerated cookies 2-3 minutes, and room-temperature cookies 1-2 minutes.

Remember that all air fryers heat differently, so it's important to keep a close eye on your cookies the first time you make them.

Using parchment paper in the air fryer

Using parchment paper in an air fryer can be a convenient way to cook certain foods without having to worry about a lengthy cleanup process afterward. However, it's important to exercise caution when placing paper inside an air fryer.

First, ensure that you are using food-grade parchment paper. It is also important to check the maximum temperature restriction of the parchment paper, which will be printed on the box. Cut the paper to fit the bottom of your air fryer basket, but be sure to leave some space for air to circulate. Perforating and trimming the paper can further assist in air circulation and grease drainage.

If you are preheating your air fryer, do not add the parchment paper until afterward, as it can float up and come into contact with the heating element. Always place food on top of the parchment paper to weigh it down and prevent it from flying around.

Parchment paper is particularly useful for cooking foods that might stick to the air fryer basket, such as chicken wings. It can also be used for baking cookies, such as Toll House cookies. However, be aware that some people have reported issues with parchment paper catching on fire in their air fryers. As an alternative, you can use a silicone liner, which is reusable and dishwasher-safe.

Customising Toll House cookies with toppings and flavours

Toll House Cookies are a classic, and customising them with different toppings and flavours can make them even more delightful. Here are some ideas to elevate your Toll House Cookies made in the air fryer:

Nuts:

Add a pleasant crunch to your cookies by including chopped walnuts or pecans. If you decide to omit the nuts, remember to add an extra 2 tablespoons of flour to your dough, as per the original recipe instructions.

Chocolate:

While the classic Toll House Cookies use semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can easily switch things up by substituting milk or dark chocolate. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even add a slice of chocolate bar to the centre of each cookie for a gooey, decadent treat.

M&Ms:

Add a pop of colour and a crunchy texture by mixing in some M&Ms with the chocolate chips. This variation is especially fun for kids and can be a great way to involve them in the baking process.

Vanilla:

Enhance the flavour of your cookies by adding a generous amount of vanilla extract. Vanilla is a key ingredient in the Toll House Cookies recipe, and increasing the quantity can result in a more complex and indulgent flavour profile.

Brown Sugar:

Consider adjusting the sugar ratio in your cookies by increasing the amount of brown sugar relative to granulated sugar. This modification can lead to a deeper, more caramelised flavour that many cookie enthusiasts prefer.

Salt:

Don't underestimate the power of salt in enhancing the overall taste of your cookies. A pinch of salt can strengthen the protein structure, resulting in chewier cookies. Additionally, the contrast of sweet and savoury can elevate the flavour experience.

When customising your Toll House Cookies, feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings and flavours. You can even involve your family and friends in the process, making it a fun and interactive activity. Enjoy the process of discovering new flavour profiles and textures as you bake your way to deliciousness!

Reheating cookies in the air fryer

Reheating cookies in an air fryer is a great way to restore their crisp texture and fresh flavour. It is a simple process that can be done in a matter of minutes.

First, preheat your air fryer to 300°F or 350°F. Then, place a single layer of cookies in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Spritz the cookies lightly with cooking spray before air frying for added crispness, if desired.

Air fry the cookies for 2-5 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on the cookies as they can burn quickly. The cookies are done when the edges are browned and crispy. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before serving.

If you are reheating a larger batch of cookies, you may need to do so in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Smaller cookies may only need 2-3 minutes, while larger cookies may need the full 4-5 minutes.

Comparing Toll House and Pillsbury cookie doughs

When it comes to comparing Toll House and Pillsbury cookie doughs, the main difference lies in the texture of the two. While both doughs can be used to make cookies in an air fryer, there are distinct variations in the final product that cater to different preferences.

Toll House cookie dough tends to result in cookies that are smoother and chewier. They have a softer texture and are easier to work with when slicing and placing on a baking sheet. The cookies produced are golden-brown, with a good balance of chocolate chips and dough. The Toll House cookies are also noted for retaining their chewiness for a longer period.

On the other hand, Pillsbury cookie dough yields crunchier and bumpier cookies. The dough itself has a grainier texture and tends to break apart more easily. The cookies produced are thinner and crispier, with a tendency to harden and get crunchy throughout more quickly. Pillsbury cookies hold their shape better and have a clunkier groove.

In terms of taste, both doughs have a recognisable cookie dough flavour, with Pillsbury having a slightly grainier texture and a more pronounced flavour. The chocolate chips in the Toll House dough are considered to have a better flavour, and the baked cookies are slightly saltier, contributing to a more favourable taste for some.

Both doughs have similar baking instructions, typically recommending an oven temperature of around 350 degrees Fahrenheit and a baking time of 12 to 15 minutes. However, it's important to monitor the cookies periodically as oven temperatures can vary, and adjust the timing accordingly.

Ultimately, the choice between Toll House and Pillsbury cookie doughs depends on personal preference for texture and taste. If you prefer a crunchier, clunkier cookie with distinct grooves, Pillsbury might be the better option. On the other hand, if you favour a softer, chewier cookie with a smoother texture, Toll House would be the ideal choice.

Frequently asked questions