Air Fryer Puff Pastry: How Long To Fry?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their ability to create crispy and delicious food with less oil. When it comes to cooking puff pastry, the air fryer is a game-changer, providing consistent heat circulation and preventing burnt edges or soggy bottoms. In this article, we will explore how long to cook puff pastry in an air fryer, as well as some tasty recipe ideas to try at home.

Thawing and rolling puff pastry

Thawing puff pastry is a delicate process, and it is important to keep the layers of dough and butter separate. The best method is to thaw it slowly and in a cool place. It is not recommended to unfold the pastry sheet until the dough is thawed, as this can cause it to crack or tear.

Thawing at Room Temperature

If you are in a hurry, you can thaw puff pastry at room temperature. Unbox the dough and keep an eye on it by gently pressing it every 15 to 20 minutes. Most puff pastry sheets will take around 30 to 40 minutes to thaw at room temperature. You want the dough to be pliable enough to unfold and roll out, but not too soft.

Thawing in the Fridge

The best way to thaw puff pastry is in the fridge. This method helps to keep the layers of dough and butter separate, ensuring a better result. Place each sheet on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and leave it to defrost for about 3 to 4 hours.

Thawing in the Microwave

If you are really short on time, you can use the microwave to thaw your puff pastry. Remove one pastry sheet from the box and outer wrapping, and wrap it in a paper towel. Microwave on high for 15 seconds, then turn the sheet over and microwave for another 15 seconds. If the pastry doesn't unfold easily, microwave each side for an additional 5 seconds.

Once your puff pastry is thawed, it's time to roll it out. It is important to work quickly while the pastry is still cold. Use a long, heavy rolling pin to roll out your puff pastry dough, creating an even thickness. Avoid pressing too hard on the ends and edges, as this can prevent the pastry from rising.

Puff pastry tends to rise during cooking, so don't roll it too thin. You can cut the pastry into your desired shapes, then store it in the fridge until you are ready for the next step. It is recommended to chill your tools, such as knives, cutters, and baking pans, while thawing your pastry.

Now that your puff pastry is thawed and rolled out, you are ready to move on to the next steps of creating your delicious air-fried treats!

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for cooking puff pastry in an air fryer can vary depending on the model of your air fryer, the size of your pastry, and your desired level of crispiness. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow to ensure your pastry turns out perfectly.

Firstly, it is recommended to preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 325°F and 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature will help achieve a flaky and crispy texture.

When it comes to cooking time, most sources suggest cooking the puff pastry for around 6-10 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pastry. Keep in mind that air fryers cook quickly and can vary in cooking time, so it's important to keep an eye on your pastry to ensure it doesn't burn. The pastry is done when it turns a golden brown colour and becomes puffy.

If you are cooking both sides of the pastry, such as when making a turnover or Danish, you may need to cook it for an additional 3-6 minutes after flipping it.

For cream cheese puff pastries, a temperature of 350°F for 12-15 minutes is recommended, or until the pastry is golden brown.

If you are cooking an egg dish in the puff pastry, such as a toad-in-the-hole tart, you will likely need to cook the pastry for 6-8 minutes before adding the egg, and then an additional 6 minutes or so after adding the egg and other ingredients.

Remember to always refer to your air fryer's instructions and adjust timing and temperature as needed for your specific model.

Brushing with egg wash or milk

Brushing your puff pastry with an egg wash or milk before putting it in the air fryer is an essential step to achieving that perfect golden-brown finish. Not only does it give your pastry a beautiful shine, but it also helps seal the dough, providing a protective barrier from the heat of the air fryer.

To make an egg wash, simply beat an egg and add a small amount of water, milk, or cream. You can also use just the egg yolk or egg white, but adding a liquid will make it easier to brush onto your pastry. The purpose of the egg wash is to provide a nice, even finish to your pastry, so make sure it is well combined and smooth before brushing it on. You can also add a little sugar to your egg wash if you want a sweeter finish.

If you're short on eggs, you can simply brush your puff pastry with milk or cream before putting it in the air fryer. This will give you a similar golden coating. Alternatively, you can use oil or butter, which will give your pastry a crispy, golden finish.

Once you've brushed your puff pastry with the egg wash or milk, place it in the air fryer basket, ensuring the pieces are in a single layer and not overlapping. Cook for about 6-10 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy. Keep an eye on it, as air fryers can cook quickly and you don't want your pastry to burn!

So, whether you brush your puff pastry with an egg wash or simply use milk or cream, you'll be sure to achieve a delicious, golden finish that will elevate your pastry creation.

Filling ideas for sweet and savoury puffs

Savoury fillings

• Sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and a touch of garlic
• Salami and cheese
• Sausage and chicken
• Goat cheese and smoked salmon
• Ham and cheese
• Gruyere, mushroom, and caramelized onion
• Leek and onion
• Mediterranean chicken
• Crab
• Pesto
• Parmesan
• Beef Wellington
• Ham and cheese hand pies with honey mustard
• Coronation curried chicken salad
• Samosa spiced potato
• Spinach and feta
• Tomato tarts
• Cheesy mushroom spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese
• Baked brie en croûte with honey, dried cherries, rosemary, and pecans
• Zucchini sausage rolls
• Ham and mushroom strudels
• Chicken and leek casserole
• Buffalo chicken
• Prosciutto and asparagus
• Jalapeno popper
• Cheese and fig
• Pepperoni pizza
• Blackberries and vanilla cream

Sweet fillings

• Apple slices tossed in cinnamon and sugar
• Powdered sugar and honey
• Berry compote
• Whipped strawberry butter
• Brown sugar butter
• Cinnamon whipped cream
• Air-fried apples
• Pumpkin pinwheels
• Jam
• Peaches and goat cheese
• Chocolate bars
• Baked apples
• Peanut butter and apple butter
• Blackberries and vanilla cream
• Pears
• Peaches

Serving suggestions and toppings

Now that you've cooked your puff pastry in the air fryer, it's time to elevate it with some tasty toppings and fillings. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Sweet Options:

• Fruit tarts: Top your air-fried puff pastry with fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, and a drizzle of honey.
• Air fryer apple turnovers: Fill circles of puff pastry with sweet apple slices tossed in cinnamon and sugar. Cook in the air fryer and serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Air fryer apple pies: Try making apple hand pies or air fryer apple pie baked apples.
• Air fryer apple plum tarts: For a fruity twist, combine apples with plums.
• Air fryer sugar cookies: For a simpler dessert, sprinkle some sugar on top of your puff pastry before air-frying.
• Air fryer caramel apple hand pies: Fill your puff pastry with caramelised apples for an indulgent treat.
• Air fryer Nutella donuts: Pipe in some Nutella for a chocolatey treat.
• Air fryer peach cobbler: Combine puff pastry with peaches for a Southern-style dessert.
• Air fryer biscuit donuts: Don't forget the classic donut shape!
• Air fryer candied pecans: Combine puff pastry with pecans for a nutty treat.
• Air fryer banana split: Add some banana slices and a dollop of whipped cream.
• Air fryer peanut butter chocolate rolls: Spread on some peanut butter and chocolate sauce for a sweet and savoury combination.
• Air fryer caramelised banana: For banana lovers, this option takes the fruit to the next level with caramel.
• Air fryer cinnamon sugar croissants: Sprinkle on some cinnamon sugar for a churros-inspired treat.
• Air fryer pineapple rings: Add some pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Air fryer peach cobbler: Combine peaches and pastry for a Southern-style dessert.
• Air fryer peanut butter chocolate rolls: Spread on some peanut butter and chocolate sauce.
• Air fryer jam turnovers: Fill your puff pastry with your favourite flavour of jam.
• Air fryer pumpkin pinwheels: Combine puff pastry with pumpkin puree and spices for a seasonal treat.
• Air fryer cheesecake: Top your puff pastry with a creamy cheesecake filling.
• Air fryer cookie pie: Combine two desserts into one with a cookie pie.
• Air fryer s'mores crescent rolls: Get the taste of s'mores without the need for a campfire.
• Air fryer chocolate pastries: Fill your puff pastry with chocolate and dust with powdered sugar.

Savoury Options:

• Savoury spinach and feta puffs: Fill your puff pastry with a mixture of sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and a touch of garlic.
• Cheesy ham and mushroom strudels: Roll up a mixture of diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, and grated cheese in puff pastry sheets.
• Savoury puffs: Fill your puff pastry with savoury ingredients like cheese, herbs, and ham.
• Air fryer chicken pot pies: For a heartier option, fill your puff pastry with chicken and vegetables.
• Air fryer salmon bites: Combine puff pastry with salmon for an elegant appetiser.
• Air fryer vegetable recipes: Keep it healthy with some air-fried veggies.
• Air fryer breakfast recipes: Try making an egg and bacon breakfast pie.
• Air fryer ham and brie pastries: Combine sliced ham with creamy brie for a sophisticated option.
• Air fryer pizza puffs: Fill your puff pastry with pizza sauce, cheese, and your favourite toppings.
• Air fryer taco puffs: Try a Mexican-inspired filling with seasoned meat, cheese, and salsa.
• Air fryer fish and chips: Combine your puff pastry with a crispy piece of fish.

Frequently asked questions