Air Fryer Hack: Frozen Pretzels, Anytime

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook frozen pretzels, yielding crispy exteriors and soft, warm interiors in just a few minutes. This method is faster than traditional baking or frying and does not require excessive oil. To cook frozen pretzels in an air fryer, first preheat the appliance to around 320-375°F (160-190°C). Then, place one to four pretzels in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them to ensure even cooking. For added crispiness, brush the pretzels with water or cooking spray. Cook for 3-5 minutes at the desired temperature, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown. Remove the pretzels from the air fryer and serve warm with your choice of toppings or dips.

How to make frozen pretzels in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Frozen pretzels
• Water
• Salt (optional)
• Cooking spray (optional)
• Dipping sauce of your choice (optional)

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Silicone tip tongs

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to between 320°F and 375°F (around 160°C to 190°C).
• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray.
• Place 1 to 4 frozen pretzels in the air fryer in a single layer, leaving some space between each one to avoid them sticking together.
• (Optional) Brush a small amount of water on the pretzels and sprinkle with salt.
• Air fry for 3-5 minutes at your chosen temperature until golden brown.
• Remove the pretzels from the air fryer using silicone tip tongs and serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

How long to cook frozen pretzels in an air fryer

Cooking frozen pretzels in an air fryer is an easy and convenient way to make a delicious snack. The cooking time will depend on the specific model of your air fryer and the brand of frozen pretzel you use. However, on average, it takes about 3-5 minutes to cook frozen pretzels in an air fryer.

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 330-375°F (190°C). Allow it to preheat for up to 5 minutes.
• Prepare the pretzels: Place 1 to 4 frozen pretzels in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is some space between each pretzel to avoid overcrowding.
• Brush with water: Lightly brush the tops of the pretzels with water. This will help to moisten the pretzels as they cook and will also make any salt or seasonings stick to the pretzels better.
• Add seasonings: If desired, sprinkle coarse salt or other seasonings of your choice on top of the moistened pretzels.
• Air fry: Place the basket into the air fryer and set the timer for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the pretzels to ensure they don't burn. For an even crispier pretzel, you can use the "flipping trick" by opening the air fryer halfway through the cooking time and flipping the pretzels with a spatula.
• Prepare dipping sauces: While the pretzels are cooking, prepare your favourite dipping sauces, such as cheese sauce, mustard, ranch, or marinara.
• Plate and serve: Once the pretzels have reached your desired level of doneness, remove them from the air fryer and serve them hot with your chosen dipping sauces.

Enjoy your freshly cooked pretzels!

What brand of frozen pretzels to use

When it comes to choosing a brand of frozen pretzels to use in your air fryer, there are several options available that will yield delicious results. Here are some recommendations and insights to help you decide:

• Auntie Anne's Frozen Pretzels: Samantha from Everyday Family Cooking expresses her love for using Auntie Anne's frozen pretzels in her air fryer. She mentions that the brand speaks to her, and the pretzels turn out perfectly hot and cooked to perfection. This brand is a great choice if you're craving that classic pretzel taste reminiscent of the ones you enjoyed at the mall.
• SuperPretzel: While Samantha prefers Auntie Anne's, she acknowledges that many people swear by SuperPretzel as their go-to brand for air fryer pretzels. SuperPretzel Fully Baked Soft Pretzels are widely available at most grocery stores, making them a convenient option.
• Plum Creek Soft Pretzels: If you're looking for a delicious option that comes with its own seasoning, Plum Creek Soft Pretzels are an excellent choice. Each box comes with a packet of salt specifically designed for pretzels, ensuring that salty flavor you crave. Plum Creek also offers free shipping straight to your door, making it a convenient and tasty option.
• Store-Brand Varieties: Don't underestimate the power of store-brand frozen pretzels! Many people have their favorite store-brand varieties that they use in their air fryers with fantastic results. You may want to explore the frozen aisle of your local grocery store and give their store-brand pretzels a try.

Ultimately, the brand you choose depends on your personal preference and availability in your area. As Samantha mentions, it's pretty hard to go wrong when making frozen pretzels in the air fryer, so feel free to experiment with different brands and find the one that suits your taste buds the best!

How to store and reheat leftover pretzels

Leftover pretzels can be stored in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store them in the freezer for up to two months. When storing in the freezer, wrap the pretzels individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable plastic freezer bag to prevent them from sticking together and to protect them from freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover pretzels, there are several reheating methods you can use:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or 400°F. Lightly brush the pretzels with water, melted butter, or cooking spray. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 4-5 minutes, or until they are warm and soft. For a crispier exterior, omit the aluminium foil and place the pretzels directly on the middle rack of the oven.
• Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the pretzels with water and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Wrap each pretzel in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. For a crispier texture, microwave for 15 seconds and then finish in a toaster oven or air fryer for a couple of minutes.
• Air Fryer (from frozen): Place 1 to 4 frozen pretzels in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Using a pastry brush, brush water on the frozen pretzels and sprinkle with coarse salt. Air fry at 330°F for 3-4 minutes, or 320°F for 3-5 minutes, until golden brown.

How to make sweet pretzels in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Frozen pretzels
• Cooking spray (optional)
• Melted butter or coconut oil
• Cinnamon and sugar
• Dipping sauce (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (or 375°F) for up to 5 minutes.
• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray.
• Place 1 to 4 frozen pretzels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with some space between each one.
• Lightly brush the tops of the pretzels with water. You can also use melted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor.
• Sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar generously over the pretzels.
• Air fry at 330°F for 3-4 minutes, or 4-5 minutes at 375°F, until the pretzels are golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the pretzels from the air fryer using tongs and serve hot.
• Enjoy your sweet pretzels as they are, or with a dipping sauce of your choice!

Tips:

• You can also sprinkle the pretzels with cinnamon and sugar after cooking, but be aware that the sugar may not stick as well.
• If you want to add a savory flavor to your pretzels, try sprinkling on some garlic powder, shredded cheese, or cheese sauce.
• For a more decadent option, you can melt butter in the air fryer while it's preheating and then brush it on the pretzels.

Frequently asked questions