Air Fryer Frozen Spring Rolls: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient way to make crispy spring rolls without the mess of frying them in oil. Frozen spring rolls can be cooked in an air fryer in under 10 minutes, making them a quick and easy snack for busy days. The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air produces a super-crisp exterior without drying out the spring rolls, and no additional oil is needed. However, brushing or spraying the spring rolls with a small amount of vegetable or avocado oil before air frying can enhance the crispiness. It is important to ensure that the spring rolls are placed in a single layer with enough space between them to cook evenly. The air fryer should be preheated to around 400°F (200°C), and the cooking time is typically 5 to 7 minutes, depending on the size of the spring rolls.

How long to cook frozen spring rolls in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen spring rolls in an air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the type of spring roll and the brand of air fryer you are using, but it should take no longer than 10–12 minutes.

First, preheat your air fryer to 375–400°F (190–204°C). You can brush or spray the spring rolls with a little oil to make them extra crispy, but this is not necessary. Place the spring rolls inside the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them so they can cook evenly. If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to cook the spring rolls in multiple batches.

Air fry the spring rolls for 9–10 minutes, checking regularly to make sure they don't burn. You can flip them halfway through the cooking time if you want, but this is not necessary. The spring rolls are ready when they are golden brown and crispy.

You can serve the spring rolls with your favourite dipping sauce. Some popular options include sweet and sour sauce, garlic soy sauce, peanut sauce, hoisin sauce, and sweet chilli sauce.

Oil or no oil?

Air fryers are a great way to cook frozen spring rolls, as they can be cooked straight from frozen with no prep time and minimal mess. The circulating heat of an air fryer means that spring rolls will have a crunchy exterior without the need for oil.

However, some recipes suggest brushing or spraying a small amount of oil onto the spring rolls before placing them in the air fryer. This can help to ensure an extra crispy exterior. Avocado oil or vegetable oil are good choices as they have a higher smoke point. If you do use oil, remember not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to sogginess.

If you don't want to use oil, that's absolutely fine too. The spring rolls will still come out crispy and delicious, and you can enjoy a healthier snack.

How to get the perfect crisp

Air-fried spring rolls are a quick, easy, and delicious snack. They are also healthier than deep-fried spring rolls, as they require little to no oil. Here are some tips to ensure your frozen spring rolls turn out perfectly crispy:

Use the Right Oil

Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, but adding a small amount of oil will help your spring rolls become crispier. Brush or spray a little cooking oil on each spring roll before placing them in the air fryer. Oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado or vegetable oil, are ideal.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 400°F (200°C), for a few minutes. It is important to note that you should not place aluminium foil in an empty air fryer. Only line the basket with foil after preheating, and ensure that it is weighed down by food for safety.

Cook at the Right Temperature and Time

The ideal temperature and cooking time will depend on the specific brand of spring rolls you are using. Check the instructions on the packaging for guidance. If there are no specific instructions for an air fryer, a temperature of around 400°F (200°C) and a cooking time of 5-7 minutes should be sufficient.

Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer

Ensure that there is enough space between the spring rolls in the air fryer to allow for even cooking. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can result in soggy spring rolls. Cook the spring rolls in multiple batches if needed.

Flip the Spring Rolls Halfway Through

For even crispiness, flip the spring rolls halfway through the cooking process. This is especially important if your spring rolls are on the larger side.

Allow the Spring Rolls to Cool on a Wire Rack

After cooking, place the spring rolls on a wire rack to cool. Avoid using a paper towel or plate, as this can make them soggy.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy perfectly crispy frozen spring rolls straight from your air fryer!

What temperature to cook at

When cooking frozen spring rolls in an air fryer, the temperature you cook at will depend on the type of air fryer you have and the brand of spring rolls you are using.

If you are using a basket-style air fryer, you should cook your spring rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. Place the spring rolls in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching, and cook for 4 minutes. Then, remove the basket, turn the spring rolls, and place them back in the air fryer for another 4 minutes.

If you are using a toaster oven-style air fryer, you may need to adjust the temperature and cooking time slightly. Cook your spring rolls at 400°F (204°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

Some sources suggest that you can cook frozen spring rolls at a lower temperature of 360°F (180°C) for 6-10 minutes, depending on the size and brand of the spring rolls. However, other sources recommend a higher temperature of 400°F to ensure the spring rolls are crispy.

It is important to note that you should not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can affect the cooking time and evenness of the spring rolls. If you are cooking a large batch of spring rolls, you may need to cook them in multiple batches. Additionally, there is no need to preheat the air fryer, and you should cook the spring rolls straight from frozen.

How to store leftover spring rolls

Spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it's important to store them correctly to maintain their texture and flavour. Here's a guide on how to store leftover spring rolls:

Wrap Individually:

Use plastic wrap to wrap each spring roll individually. This prevents them from sticking together and helps maintain their shape. It also ensures that the delicate rice paper wrappers don't dry out or crack during storage.

Use a Damp Tea Towel or Paper Towel:

Place the wrapped spring rolls on a large cutting board, tray, or sheet pan. Cover them with a damp tea towel or paper towel to maintain moisture. This is especially important for fresh spring rolls with rice paper wrappers, as it keeps them soft and chewy.

Store in an Airtight Container:

After wrapping and covering with a damp towel, place the spring rolls in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate each layer with parchment paper or damp paper towels to prevent sticking.

Refrigerate:

Store the airtight container in the refrigerator. Fresh spring rolls with rice paper wrappers can be stored for one to two days, while fried spring rolls are best eaten within three to four days.

Freeze for Longer Storage:

If you have a large batch of spring rolls and want to enjoy them later in the week or beyond, freezing is a great option. First, lay them in a single layer on a tray and freeze them individually. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to zip-lock bags or airtight containers. This ensures they retain their shape and don't get squashed.

Reheating:

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover spring rolls, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before consuming. For fried spring rolls, reheat them in an air fryer or oven to regain that crispy texture.

Remember, the key to storing leftover spring rolls is to prevent them from drying out, sticking together, and losing their freshness. By following these steps, you can enjoy your leftover spring rolls for a few days while maintaining their deliciousness!

Frequently asked questions