Air Fryer Cookies: Pillsbury Dough Quick Fix

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to traditional ovens, and they can be used to make delicious cookies from Pillsbury cookie dough. The process is straightforward and quick, requiring little preparation and minimal ingredients. By following a few simple steps, you can have warm, freshly baked cookies ready to enjoy in no time.

Air fryer temperature and time

The air fryer temperature and time will depend on the type of Pillsbury cookies you are making. For instance, the air fryer temperature for Pillsbury sugar cookies is different from that of Pillsbury chocolate chip cookies.

For Pillsbury sugar cookies, set the temperature to 330 degrees Fahrenheit and the time to 4 minutes. However, it is important to note that every air fryer is different, and yours may take 5 minutes. It is also recommended to let the cookies cool in the air fryer before removing them, as they will harden as they cool.

On the other hand, the ideal temperature for Pillsbury chocolate chip cookies is 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and the time is 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, check the cookies, and if they need more time, add up to 5 minutes as needed. These cookies will be perfectly cooked and golden brown on the outside with a nice crunch and gooey chocolate chips.

It is important to note that the air fryer should not be preheated when making cookies, as the dough will simply run off and melt. Additionally, the air fryer should be cooled in between batches.

Preparing the air fryer basket

Firstly, take out the air fryer basket from the air fryer. This is important as it gives you a stable surface to work on and makes it easier to arrange the cookie dough. It is also recommended that the air fryer itself is not preheated, as this can cause the dough to melt and run off.

The next step is to line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This is essential to prevent the cookie dough from falling through the holes in the basket. Cut the parchment paper to fit the basket neatly, ensuring it doesn't overlap too much, which could obstruct airflow. Some people also suggest using aluminium foil, but be cautious as this may affect cooking times.

Once the basket is lined, spray it with a non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial in preventing the cookies from sticking to the parchment paper, making it easier to remove them once they're cooked.

Now you're ready to place the cookie dough in the basket. If you're using pre-portioned cookie dough, break the cookies apart and place them about 2 inches apart in the basket. This spacing is important to prevent the cookies from sticking together and to give them room to spread during cooking. If you're using a cookie dough log, slice the cookies first before placing them in the basket.

When arranging the cookie dough, be careful not to overcrowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may only be able to cook 7 cookies at a time. It's important to cook in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid the cookies from merging into one giant cookie!

Finally, before returning the basket to the air fryer, ensure that the dough is evenly distributed and not too close to the edges of the basket. You don't want the cookies to bake unevenly or, worse, drip through the sides and cause a mess.

Now that your air fryer basket is prepared, you're ready to start cooking those delicious Pillsbury cookies!

Cookie dough tips

Air fryers are a great way to make cookies, especially if you want to make a small batch or avoid heating up your kitchen with a full-size oven. They're also a quick and easy way to get perfect, gooey cookies. Here are some tips to help you get the best results when cooking cookie dough in an air fryer.

Choosing the Right Cookie Dough

Pillsbury cookie dough is a popular choice for air fryer cookies, and it comes in a range of flavours, including sugar cookie and chocolate chip. However, you can use any brand of cookie dough, and even homemade dough, as long as it's refrigerated.

Preparing the Air Fryer

Before you start, it's important to ensure that your air fryer is cool. If you preheat it, the dough will melt. You should also line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleaning up easier. Spray the paper with non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can use aluminium foil, but be careful not to cover the entire basket, as this could cause a safety hazard.

Cooking the Cookies

Place the cookie dough balls or slices on the prepared air fryer basket, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between them to allow for spreading. If you're using a basket-style air fryer, be careful not to place the dough directly on the basket, as it will fall through the holes. Cook the cookies at 300-400°F (150-200°C) for 4-10 minutes, depending on your air fryer and the desired level of doneness. Check the cookies after 4 or 5 minutes, and add more time if needed. Let the cookies cool before removing them from the air fryer, as they will harden as they cool.

Storing Leftovers

Once your cookies are baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Then, place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months.

Storing leftover cookies

The best way to store leftover cookies depends on the type of cookie and how long you want to keep them for. If you're planning to eat the cookies within a few days, you can store them at room temperature. Soft cookies like gingerbread, chocolate chip, and peanut butter should be kept in an airtight container. To keep them soft, place a slice of white sandwich bread inside the container – the moisture from the bread will be absorbed by the cookies.

If you want to keep crispy cookies, the goal is to keep moisture away. Store them in an airtight container that's not completely sealed, so some air can get in and humidity can stay out.

You can also store cookies in the fridge, where they'll last for up to two weeks, or in the freezer, where they'll last for up to a year. If you're storing cookies in the fridge or freezer, let them cool completely after baking, then place them in a sealable plastic bag or container. If you're freezing cookies, it's best to use a container designed for the freezer.

Other air fryer cookie recipes

Air fryers are a great way to bake cookies, and you can use them to make a variety of different types. Here are some other cookie recipes you can try:

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Air fryer chocolate chip cookies are a great option if you're looking for a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. To make them, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Butter
• Brown sugar
• White sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Chocolate chips

After mixing the ingredients, form the dough into balls and place them in the air fryer. Bake at 325°F for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.

French Palmier Cookies

Also known as elephant ears, these cookies are a great option for those who love a crunchy, sweet treat. To make them in an air fryer, roll out puff pastry and sprinkle it with sugar and cinnamon. Cut the pastry into strips and twist them into the shape of a palm leaf. Air fry at 320°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you're looking for a more traditional cookie, you can also make homemade chocolate chip cookies in your air fryer. To make the dough, you'll need:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• White sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Chocolate chips

Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them and shape the dough into balls. Place them in the air fryer and bake at 325°F for 7-8 minutes.

Cinnamon Rolls

While not technically a cookie, air fryer cinnamon rolls are a delicious treat that can be made in a similar way. To make the dough, mix flour, butter, sugar, milk, yeast, and cinnamon. Roll out the dough, spread softened butter on top, and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll up the dough and cut it into slices. Place them in the air fryer and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Other Options

There are also many other types of cookies that can be made in an air fryer, such as peanut butter cookies, almond cookies, brownies, and even donuts. You can also get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavours to find your own unique cookie recipe!

Frequently asked questions