Air Fryer Baking: Can You Use Regular Baking Pans?

Air fryers are small convection ovens that use hot air to cook food, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. You can bake anything in an air fryer that you would in a regular oven, but you'll need to adjust the recipe and use the right bakeware.

Air fryer manufacturers often sell brand-specific sets of pans for baking, but you can also use regular oven-safe dishes as long as they're the right size. The pans should be high enough to contain the food without blocking the heating element, but shallow enough to allow for proper air circulation.

Silicone, stainless steel, and aluminum are all popular materials for air fryer-safe pans, as they can withstand the high temperatures generated by air fryers.

Air fryer baking pans

When choosing an air fryer baking pan, it is important to consider the size and shape of the pan in relation to your air fryer basket. The pan should fit comfortably inside without touching the heating element or obstructing air circulation. Additionally, the material of the pan should be heat-resistant and able to withstand temperatures up to 400°F (200°C) or higher.

Some air fryer manufacturers sell brand-specific sets of pans for baking, but you can also buy individual small pans that fit correctly inside your air fryer. Regular oven-safe dishes, such as high-sided cake pans, shallow slice tins, and silicone cupcake cases, can also be used in an air fryer as long as they are the right size and allow for proper air circulation.

It is worth noting that baking in an air fryer may require adjustments to recipes and baking times due to the concentrated heat circulation. Baked goods tend to cook faster in an air fryer, so reducing the temperature and time compared to a regular oven may be necessary.

Air fryer cake pans

• Size and Shape: Choose a pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket without touching the heating element or blocking air circulation. The best size for basket-type air fryers is typically a 5-8 inch round or square cake pan. Shallow pans are ideal as they allow for faster baking and better heat circulation.
• Material: Air fryer cake pans are typically made of materials that can withstand high temperatures, such as stainless steel, aluminium, or silicone. These materials are durable, heat-resistant, and non-stick, making them ideal for baking.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the cake pan is compatible with your specific air fryer model. Different brands and models may have varying sizes and shapes, so check the manufacturer's instructions before purchasing.
• Heat Resistance: Air fryers can reach temperatures of up to 400°F (200°C) or higher, so choose a cake pan that can handle these high temperatures without warping or melting.
• Easy to Clean: Look for cake pans that are dishwasher-safe and have non-stick coatings, making cleanup more convenient.
• Versatility: Some cake pans can also be used for other recipes like pies, muffins, and cupcakes. If you plan to use your air fryer for a variety of dishes, consider investing in a versatile pan set.

When baking cakes in an air fryer, it's important to remember that they tend to bake faster due to the compact space and concentrated heat circulation. Therefore, you may need to reduce the temperature and baking time compared to a conventional oven. Additionally, most air fryers heat from the top, so it's recommended to use a shallow pan and reduce the baking time to allow heat to gradually reach the bottom of the cake.

You can find a variety of air fryer cake pans online and in kitchen supply stores. Some popular options include:

• Silicone cake pans: These are flexible, heat-resistant, and easy to clean.
• Non-stick metal cake pans: Made from stainless steel or aluminium, these pans are durable and suitable for various recipes.
• Springform pans: Ideal for cheesecakes and other delicate desserts.
• Bundt pans: Perfect for creating decorative cakes with unique shapes.

Air fryer-safe materials

Air fryers are small convection ovens that use hot air to cook food, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. They are versatile and can be used for a range of cooking methods, including baking, roasting, grilling, and frying.

When it comes to choosing the right materials for your air fryer, here are some key considerations:

Materials to Use

• Metal Pans: Metal is an excellent conductor of heat, making it ideal for even and quick cooking. Metal muffin pans, cake pans, and sheet pans are perfect for air frying.
• Non-Stick Dark Pans: These pans absorb heat well and help achieve a crispy texture without sticking. They are great for cooking food more quickly.
• Cast Iron: Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well and is perfect for recipes that require high heat and crispiness.
• Silicone: Silicone is heat-resistant, flexible, and dishwasher-safe. It is ideal for delicate items like muffins and cakes as it allows for easy removal. However, cooking times may need adjustment due to its lower heat conductivity.
• Aluminum: Aluminum pans heat up quickly, cook food evenly, and are lightweight. They are also available in disposable options, making cleanup easy.
• Ceramic: Ceramic pans are non-reactive and cook food at a consistent temperature, making them ideal for acidic foods.
• Tempered Glass: While heavier, tempered glass pans are excellent for casseroles and dishes that require a longer cooking time at a steady heat.

Materials to Avoid

• Teflon and Non-Stick Coatings: These coatings can release harmful toxins if heated past their maximum temperature range of 300°F (149°C).
• Paper and Plastic: Paper and plastic should never be used in an air fryer as they have much lower melting points than the minimum cooking temperature of an air fryer.
• Light-Colored Pans: Lighter-colored pans can burn food faster and distribute heat less evenly than darker pans.

Additional Tips

• Always use oven-safe and air fryer-safe dishware.
• Ensure proper airflow by not blocking the air circulation with the pan.
• Avoid touching the sides or obstructing the heating element with the pan.
• Choose a pan with a non-stick coating for easier food release and cleanup.
• Select a pan with a heat-resistant material that can withstand temperatures up to 400°F (200°C) or higher.
• Consider the depth and shape of the pan based on the recipes you plan to prepare. Shallow pans are ideal for roasting, while deeper pans are better for casseroles and lasagnas.

Air fryer oven pans

Materials

The material of your air fryer oven pan is crucial. Look for materials that can withstand high temperatures without warping or melting. Stainless steel, aluminium, silicone, and cast iron are excellent choices. Silicone, in particular, is pliable, heat-resistant, and dishwasher-safe, making it a convenient option.

Size and Shape

Size and shape are critical factors when choosing an air fryer oven pan. Ensure the pan fits inside the air fryer basket without touching the heating element or obstructing airflow. The pan should be tall enough to contain the food but not so tall that it blocks the heating element. Shallow pans are ideal for roasting vegetables or making frittatas, while deeper pans are perfect for casseroles and lasagnas.

Non-Stick Coating

A non-stick coating is highly recommended for air fryer oven pans. It makes food release easier and simplifies cleaning. Look for high-quality, non-stick surfaces that are PFOA-free and durable.

Heat Resistance

Air fryers can reach temperatures of up to 400°F (200°C) or higher, so ensure your pan can handle these high temperatures. Check the maximum temperature rating of the pan before purchasing.

Compatibility

Not all air fryer oven pans are created equal. Different brands and models of air fryers may have specific pan requirements. Always check the compatibility of the pan with your air fryer model to ensure a perfect fit.

Versatility

Choose a pan that offers versatility in the kitchen. Some air fryer oven pans come with removable handles, allowing them to double as baking dishes in the oven. Additionally, consider purchasing accessory sets that include various pans, racks, and moulds designed specifically for your air fryer model.

Maintenance

Easy maintenance is an important consideration. Look for dishwasher-safe pans to simplify the cleaning process. Even with non-stick surfaces, be sure to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to prolong the lifespan of your pan.

Tips for Using Air Fryer Oven Pans

• Preheat the air fryer when necessary, especially for recipes that require the activation of baking powder or baking soda.
• Flip your food halfway through the cooking process for even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper airflow and even crispiness.
• Adjust cooking times as needed. Start with a shorter cooking time than suggested and adjust accordingly.
• Use a light coating of oil or cooking spray on food for added crispiness.

Air fryer basket pans

Common Characteristics of Air Fryer Safe Pans:

• Material: Air fryer safe pans are often made from stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone, which can handle the heat generated by air fryers without warping or melting.
• Non-Stick Coating: Many air fryer safe pans have a non-stick coating that makes food release easier and simplifies cleaning.
• Size and Shape: These pans are designed to fit inside the air fryer basket without touching the heating element or obstructing air circulation. They come in various shapes, including square, rectangular, round, and oval, to accommodate different recipes.
• Heat Resistance: Air fryer safe pans are heat-resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 400°F (200°C) or higher.
• Easy to Clean: They are designed for easy cleaning and are often dishwasher-safe.
• Versatility: Some air fryer safe pans can be used for various cooking methods, including baking, roasting, and grilling.

Tips for Choosing an Air Fryer Safe Pan:

• Size and Compatibility: Ensure the pan fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket without touching the sides or obstructing airflow. Check the dimensions of both the pan and your air fryer for compatibility.
• Material: Choose pans made from heat-resistant materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone, which can withstand high temperatures without warping or melting.
• Non-Stick Coating: Opt for a pan with a non-stick coating for easier food release and cleaning. Look for a high-quality, durable, and PFOA-free surface.
• Depth and Shape: Consider the depth and shape of the pan based on the recipes you plan to prepare. Shallow pans are suitable for roasting vegetables or making frittatas, while deeper pans are ideal for casseroles and lasagnas.
• Versatility: Select a pan that offers versatility. Some air fryer pans have removable handles, allowing them to double as baking dishes in the oven.
• Easy to Clean: Check if the pan is dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning. Even with a non-stick surface, follow care instructions to prolong the pan's lifespan.
• Heat Resistance: Ensure the pan can handle the high temperatures typically reached in air fryers, up to 400°F (200°C) or higher.
• Accessories and Sets: Consider purchasing air fryer accessory sets with various pans, racks, and moulds designed specifically for your air fryer model.
• Brand Compatibility: Some air fryer brands offer a range of compatible cookware and accessories. Check if your air fryer manufacturer provides these options for a perfect fit.
• User Reviews: Read user reviews and ratings to get insights into the performance and durability of specific air fryer safe pans.
• Warranty: Look for a pan that comes with a warranty to provide peace of mind in case of manufacturing defects or issues.

Frequently asked questions