Air-Fried Brownie: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens for baking brownies, especially when you want a small batch and don't want to heat up the entire kitchen. They are also a great option for those who don't have an oven or are looking for quick and easy dessert recipes. Making brownies in an air fryer is simple and only requires a handful of ingredients. You can use a boxed brownie mix or make the batter from scratch, and the cooking time is usually around 15-20 minutes, depending on the air fryer model and the thickness of the batter.

Choosing the right pan for your air fryer

Material

The material of the pan is crucial. Metal pans, such as aluminium or stainless steel, are excellent choices as they conduct heat quickly and evenly, leading to faster cooking times. Non-stick dark pans are also a good option as they absorb heat well, resulting in crispier food. Cast iron pans are perfect for achieving high temperatures and a crispy texture, making them ideal for searing meats. Silicone moulds are suitable for delicate items like muffins and cakes as they allow for easy removal, but they may require adjustments in cooking times.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the pan should fit comfortably inside the air fryer, allowing adequate airflow for even cooking. The pan should be small enough to provide proper air circulation but large enough to cook the desired quantity of food. It is recommended to measure the interior of your air fryer before purchasing a pan to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, consider the shape of your air fryer when choosing a pan. For example, a round pan may work better in an air fryer with a circular shape.

Oven-Safe

Always choose a pan that is oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures. Air fryers can reach temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, so ensure the pan is rated for such temperatures to avoid warping or melting. Look for an oven-safe label or choose a material like metal, ceramic, or tempered glass.

Perforations

Using pans with holes or perforations can enhance airflow and result in crispier food. This is especially beneficial if you are cooking foods that benefit from even air circulation, such as vegetables or meats.

Handles

Be cautious when choosing pans with handles. Opt for pans with handles that are part of a composite body, such as ceramic casserole dishes or cast iron pans. Avoid handles made of wooden or plastic grips as they may melt at high temperatures.

Avoid Non-Stick Coatings

While non-stick pans are convenient for cleaning, avoid those with Teflon coatings. Teflon has a maximum temperature limit, and exceeding this can cause the release of harmful toxins.

Colour

Darker pans are preferable as they absorb and distribute heat more evenly, reducing the chance of burning your food. Lighter-coloured pans, especially those that are shiny, may reflect heat and lead to uneven cooking.

Safety

Always prioritise safety when choosing a pan for your air fryer. Avoid using paper or plastic products in the air fryer as they can catch fire or melt, respectively.

How to make boxed brownies in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Boxed brownie mix
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Water
• Mix-ins (optional): chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel swirls

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Baking pan
• Bowl
• Whisk
• Spoon or rubber spatula

Method:

• Make the brownie batter by following the instructions on the box.
• Prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray.
• Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
• Place the pan in the air fryer basket and set the temperature to between 320-350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Cook for 12-20 minutes. Check the brownies and add more time as needed.
• Allow the brownies to cool before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• Use room-temperature eggs for a lighter, fluffier brownie.
• Check on your brownies frequently, especially if you are using a thicker pan.
• Metal pans cook faster than glass dishes.
• Use parchment paper or aluminium foil to line the bottom of your pan for easier removal.
• Air fryer brownies will continue to cook after you take them out, so don't worry if a knife comes out with a few crumbs.

How to make brownies from scratch in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Flour (all-purpose, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
• Cocoa powder (Dutch-process or natural)
• Fat (refined coconut oil, butter, vegetable oil, or olive oil)
• Sugar (granulated, coconut, or maple)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Chocolate chips (optional)

Method:

• Grease a 6-inch or 7-inch round or square cake pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper.
• Preheat your air fryer to 320-350°F.
• In a large bowl, mix together your dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, mix together the melted fat and sugar until combined. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until almost combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the brownies.
• Fold in any optional mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel swirls.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Place the pan in the air fryer and bake for 15-20 minutes. The baking time will depend on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on the brownies to avoid overbaking.
• To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. The brownies are ready when the toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, but not raw batter.
• Remove the brownies from the air fryer and allow them to cool before removing them from the pan and cutting them into squares.

Tips:

• If you're using a glass or ceramic pan, you may need to increase the baking time.
• Metal pans cook faster than glass or ceramic dishes.
• The color of your pan can also affect the baking time. Darker or glass pans will radiate more heat and bake the brownies more quickly.
• It's important to let the brownies cool completely before cutting and serving them. This will allow them to firm up and set, resulting in a fudgy texture.

How to prevent brownies from burning in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to make brownies without heating up the whole house by turning on the oven. However, it can be tricky to get the timing right, and brownies can easily burn. Here are some tips to prevent your brownies from burning in an air fryer:

• Stay close to the air fryer and check on the brownies frequently. Unlike cheesecakes, brownies will not crack or get ruined if you open the door too early.
• Be aware that the pan you use can affect the cooking time. Metal pans cook faster, while glass dishes take longer. It is recommended to use a metal brownie pan.
• Cover the brownies loosely with aluminium foil halfway through the cooking time to prevent the top from burning while allowing the brownies to continue cooking evenly.
• If you are using a glass or ceramic pan, lower the temperature by 30 degrees Fahrenheit and reduce the cooking time by 20%.
• If your brownies are burning, try using a silicone or paper cupcake liner or mould instead of a pan.
• If your air fryer has a lower wattage, you may need to increase the cooking time.

How to store leftover brownies

So, you've made a batch of brownies in your air fryer and now you're wondering how to store them? Well, it depends on how long you want to keep them for. Here are some tips on how to store leftover brownies to keep them tasting fresh and delicious.

Storing Brownies at Room Temperature

If you plan on eating your brownies within a few days, storing them at room temperature is the best option. This will keep them nice and soft, as if they've just come out of the oven. To store brownies at room temperature, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep the air out, or place them in an airtight container such as a lidded tray or Tupperware. This will prevent your brownies from going stale and stop any contaminants from getting in. If you've cut your brownies into squares, they'll stay fresh at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. Uncut brownies will last a little longer, up to 4 days.

Storing Brownies in the Fridge

If you want your brownies to last a little longer, you can store them in the fridge. This will keep them fresh for up to a week and give them a fudgier texture. To store brownies in the fridge, wrap them first in plastic wrap and then add a layer of foil, or place them in an airtight container. This double layer will protect your brownies from the air and any food odours in the fridge.

Storing Brownies in the Freezer

If you want to keep your brownies for longer than a week, you can freeze them. This will keep them tasting fresh for up to 3 months. To freeze brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container, like a zip-top freezer bag. When you're ready to eat your frozen brownies, let them thaw at room temperature, still wrapped, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tips for Storing Brownies

• Avoid cutting your brownies before storing them, as exposing more of the brownie to the air will make them dry out faster.
• If you do cut your brownies, wrap each individual brownie before placing them in an airtight container.
• If you're storing brownies with perishable toppings or mix-ins, like cream cheese, be sure to refrigerate them.
• If you want to keep your brownies extra soft, add a slice of bread to your storage container. The moisture from the bread will help keep the brownies soft for a few extra days.

Frequently asked questions