Air Fryer Baking: Muffin Cups

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens for baking muffins. They are quicker, use less energy, and can be used to make a variety of muffins, including chocolate chip, blueberry, and pumpkin muffins. When baking muffins in an air fryer, you can use silicone, paper, or aluminium foil muffin cups. However, it is important to note that paper muffin cups may be too thin to hold the batter and may blow around or melt in the air fryer, so it is recommended to use them with a pan. Silicone muffin cups are preferred as they are sturdier, reusable, and can hold thick muffin batter better. Additionally, any oven-proof dish, such as glass, ceramic, or metal, can be used in an air fryer for baking muffins.

Silicone cups are preferable to paper cups

Secondly, silicone cups are reusable, making them a more economical and environmentally-friendly option. They also come in a variety of colours and designs, adding a touch of personality to your baking.

Additionally, silicone cups are safer to use in an air fryer. Paper cups can be too thin and fragile, requiring the use of an additional pan to provide support. There have been reports of paper cups melting and sticking to muffins, which can be a hassle to remove. In some cases, paper may even blow around in the air fryer and get caught in the heating element, posing a fire hazard.

Finally, silicone cups offer more versatility in the kitchen. They can be used across a wide temperature range and are suitable for both the freezer and the oven. This makes them ideal for various cooking tasks beyond just baking muffins.

Paper cups may blow around or melt in the air fryer

Paper cups can be used in an air fryer, but they may blow around or melt. They are not as sturdy as silicone cups and may require a pan to keep their shape. If the paper liner blows around, it may get stuck inside the muffin. Paper cups have also been known to melt and stick to the muffins, which can be difficult to remove. In some cases, the paper has caught on the heating element and caused a fire.

For these reasons, it is recommended to use silicone cups instead of paper cups in an air fryer. Silicone cups are heavier and can be filled on the counter before being transferred to the air fryer, reducing the risk of spilling. They are also reusable and hold their shape better than paper cups.

Ovenproof materials are safe to use in an air fryer

Yes, you can use a muffin cup in an air fryer, but there are some things to keep in mind.

Air fryers work similarly to ovens, so anything that is ovenproof can be used in an air fryer. This includes ovenproof glass, ceramic, and metal.

Glass

Glass dishes that are oven-safe can be used in an air fryer. However, it is important to note that glass does not respond well to temperature shock. Therefore, it is recommended to let the dish cool down before removing it from the air fryer, and never put a cold glass dish directly into the air fryer. Pyrex dishes, made of borosilicate glass, are a good option as they are thermal shock-resistant.

Ceramic

Ceramic cookware, including casserole dishes and baking pans, can be used in an air fryer. They are coated with heat and corrosion-resistant clay, allowing them to withstand high temperatures. Ceramic bowls and plates, which do not contain any metal, can also be used but are more prone to breaking.

Metal

Metal bowls and plates can be used in an air fryer, but it is important to avoid anything with plastic lids or handles as they will melt and release harmful fumes. Cast iron skillets and pans are a good option, but they are not non-stick, so oil or butter is needed to prevent food from sticking. Stainless steel bowls and pans are also a good choice, but avoid those with loops due to space constraints in the air fryer.

Silicone

Silicone molds are safe to use in an air fryer and are ideal for baking muffins, cupcakes, and brownies. They are lightweight, heat-resistant, and anti-stick, making it easier to handle and clean than glass or metal dishes.

Other Materials

In addition to the materials mentioned above, aluminum foil and parchment paper can be used in an air fryer with some precautions. They should not come into direct contact with the heating elements, and aluminum foil should be weighed down to prevent it from blowing around. Toothpicks and wooden skewers can also be used after being soaked in water for at least 20 minutes to reduce the risk of burning.

Air fryer muffins are quick and easy to make

To make muffins in an air fryer, you will need an air fryer (basket-style or oven-style) and muffin cups. While paper muffin cups can be used, silicone cups are recommended as they are sturdier, reusable, and less likely to cause a mess. Silicone cups are also easier to fill and transfer to the air fryer without spilling. If using paper cups, it is best to place them in a muffin pan to provide additional support and prevent them from blowing around.

The process of making air fryer muffins is simple. First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F-375°F. If using a basket-style air fryer, place the silicone cups directly into the basket. For an oven-style air fryer, you may need to use a pan. Next, prepare your favourite muffin batter and fill the cups about two-thirds full. Bake the muffins in the air fryer for 8 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool before serving.

Converting an oven-baked muffin recipe to an air fryer recipe is straightforward. You can use your favourite muffin recipe and simply adjust the temperature and baking time. As a general rule, reduce the temperature by 25°F and the cooking time by 15-25%. For example, if an oven-baked muffin recipe calls for a temperature of 350°F and a baking time of 20 minutes, you can adjust it to 325°F and 15-17 minutes in the air fryer.

Air fryer muffins are a convenient and delicious option for those who want to enjoy freshly baked treats without spending too much time in the kitchen. With this quick and easy method, you can have tasty muffins ready in no time!

Air fryers are more energy-efficient than ovens

Yes, you can use muffin cups in an air fryer. Silicone muffin cups are best as they are sturdier and reusable. Paper cups can be used, but they are not recommended as they are too thin to hold the batter, and they do not keep their shape.

Now, onto the energy efficiency of air fryers compared to ovens.

Additionally, air fryers cook food much faster than traditional ovens, often reducing cooking times by half. This is due to their smaller cooking chamber and superconvection technology, which circulates hot air around the food. The shorter cooking times further contribute to the energy efficiency of air fryers.

Moreover, air fryers require little to no preheat time, unlike ovens, which typically take at least 10-15 minutes to preheat. This also helps reduce the overall energy consumption of air fryers compared to ovens.

While the upfront cost of an air fryer may be a factor to consider, with prices ranging from $100 to $500, the long-term savings on energy bills can make it a worthwhile investment, especially with the rising energy costs.

However, it is important to note that an air fryer may not always be the best option for cooking large quantities of food or specific dishes that require an oven, such as a large roast or baking projects. In such cases, using an oven may be more practical.

In summary, air fryers are more energy-efficient than ovens due to their lower energy consumption, faster cooking times, and minimal preheat requirements. They can help reduce energy costs, especially with frequent use, making them a valuable addition to your kitchen appliances.

Frequently asked questions