Air Fryer Frozen Cookies: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient way to make freshly baked cookies without turning on your oven. They are perfect for making small batches of cookies and can be used to bake cookies from frozen dough. The cookies will be thicker and rounder if cooked from frozen, and you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature depending on the size and type of your air fryer.

Choosing a baking pan

When making frozen cookies in an air fryer, it's important to choose the right baking pan to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup. Here are some tips to help you select the best baking pan for your air fryer:

First, consider the size of your air fryer. Choose a small baking pan that will fit comfortably inside your air fryer, allowing enough space for hot air to circulate. If you don't have a pan that fits, you can use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat placed directly on the rack of your air fryer. Just ensure that it doesn't come into contact with the heating element, as this could be a fire hazard.

Next, select a pan made from a suitable material. Non-stick pans are a popular choice, as they make it easier to remove your cookies once they're cooked and help with cleanup. Silicone, carbon steel, and stainless steel are all good options that are widely available and often affordable. If you're using a metal pan, ensure it's made from a heat-resistant metal that can withstand the temperatures of your air fryer.

Additionally, consider the type of cookies you're making and the finish you want to achieve. Different pans can give different results. For example, a cast iron pan will make your cookies crisper, while a ceramic pan will result in softer, cakier cookies. If you're looking for a mix of textures, you can always experiment with different pans to find the one that works best for your favourite cookie recipe.

Finally, check your air fryer's manual to see if the manufacturer has any specific recommendations or warnings about the types of pans that are safe to use. Some air fryers may not be compatible with certain materials, so it's always best to double-check before you start cooking.

Preparing the air fryer basket

Firstly, it is important to note that you should not place the frozen cookie dough directly onto the air fryer basket, as it will melt onto the wires before cooking through. Instead, you should use a small pan, foil, or baking paper. If using foil or baking paper, check your air fryer manual first to ensure it is safe to do so. Parchment paper with perforations designed specifically for air frying can improve airflow and even baking. When using parchment paper, ensure it is weighed down, or the air circulation may lift it, causing it to come into contact with the heating element.

Now, let's get into the step-by-step process:

• Preheat your air fryer: Before preparing the basket, you'll want to preheat your air fryer. The ideal temperature and time may vary depending on your air fryer brand and model. As a starting point, set it to 320°F (160°C) for a few minutes. This helps ensure even heat distribution within the cavity.
• Line the air fryer basket: After preheating, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper, foil, or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookie dough from sticking to the basket, making it easier to remove the cookies once they're done and simplifying cleanup. If using parchment paper, some people recommend piercing holes in it, but this is not a necessary step for everyone.
• Place the frozen cookie dough: Take your frozen cookie dough portions and place them on the parchment paper, foil, or silicone baking mat, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading. The number of cookies you can bake at once will depend on the size of your air fryer basket. Remember that the cookies will flatten and spread a bit during cooking, so leave adequate space to avoid them sticking together.
• Adjust time and temperature: Once you've placed the cookie dough in the basket, it's time to adjust the time and temperature settings on your air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your cookie dough and your desired level of doneness. As a starting point, set the timer for 6-10 minutes. You can always add more time if needed.
• Cool and enjoy: Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the air fryer basket from the air fryer. Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes in the basket before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, freshly baked cookies straight from your air fryer with minimal cleanup required!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for making frozen cookies in an air fryer can vary depending on the type of dough you are using, the size of your air fryer, and your personal preference for cookie texture. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best results:

Preheat your air fryer:

Start by preheating your air fryer to the desired temperature. The recommended temperatures vary across sources, ranging from 320°F (160°C) to 350°F (175°C to 180°C). You can preheat your air fryer for a few minutes, or until it reaches the desired temperature.

Prepare your air fryer basket or tray:

Line the basket or tray of your air fryer with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step is crucial to prevent the cookie dough from sticking to the surface and making cleanup easier. If using parchment paper, consider piercing some holes in it, as some sources suggest this improves air circulation and even baking. Make sure the parchment paper is weighted down to prevent it from lifting into the heating elements. Alternatively, you can use aluminium foil or a mini pan/small baking pan, but be sure to check your air fryer manual for compatibility.

Place your frozen cookie dough:

Arrange your frozen cookie dough portions on the prepared surface, leaving some space between each piece. The number of cookies you can bake at once will depend on the size of your air fryer, so adjust accordingly. If using a pan, you can place the dough directly on it.

Set the cooking time:

Once your air fryer is preheated, place the basket or pan inside and set the cook time. The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness and size of your cookie dough and your desired level of doneness. The recommended cooking times range from 5 minutes to 15 minutes. For smaller or thinner cookies, start with a shorter cooking time, such as 5 to 8 minutes. For larger or thicker cookies, you may need a longer cooking time, up to 15 minutes. Check on your cookies periodically to ensure they don't over-bake, as air fryers can quickly burn them.

Adjust temperature and time as needed:

If you are using a recipe that specifies an oven temperature, it is recommended to reduce the air fryer temperature by about 20°F. Additionally, if you are baking from frozen, you may need to increase the cooking time by a minute or two. Keep a close eye on your cookies, as the cooking time can vary based on the unique characteristics of your air fryer.

Cool and enjoy:

Once the cookies are done, carefully remove the basket or pan from the air fryer and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!

Flattening the cookies

When using an air fryer to bake frozen cookies, it is important to note that the cookie dough may not spread as well as it would in a conventional oven. This is because the air fryer's small size and rapid air circulation can hinder the dough from spreading evenly. As a result, your cookies may turn out thicker and rounder.

To achieve a flatter and more uniform shape for your cookies, gently flatten them during the baking process. The ideal time to do this is when the cookies are about halfway done. By using a spatula or the back of a spoon, gently press down on the cookies to give them your desired shape. Be careful not to press too hard, as you don't want to crush or deform the cookies.

Another factor to consider is the placement of the cookies within the air fryer. To allow for even cooking and browning, make sure the cookies are spaced evenly and not crowded in the air fryer basket. This will also give them a little room to spread during the baking process.

Additionally, the type of baking surface you use can impact the shape of your cookies. Using a cast iron pan will result in crisper cookies, while a ceramic pan will make them softer and cakier. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can also try tapping the air fryer basket on the counter a few times after removing the cookies to help deflate them slightly.

Remember, the key to successful cookie flattening is timing and gentleness. By flattening at the right moment and using the appropriate tools, you can achieve your desired cookie shape and texture. Always keep a close eye on your cookies during the baking process, as over-baking can lead to dry and hard cookies. With a little practice and experimentation, you'll be able to master the art of flattening frozen cookies in your air fryer.

Storing the cookies

Storing Cookies at Room Temperature

Cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. However, it is important to ensure that they are stored in an airtight container to prevent them from going stale. If you plan to use a cookie jar or another non-airtight container, place the cookies in a sealable plastic bag before putting them in the jar. This will help keep them fresh for longer.

Refrigerating Cookies

If you intend to eat your cookies more than three days after baking, it is best to store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Place the cookies in a fully sealable plastic bag or container and store them in the fridge. This is especially important for cookies made with perishable ingredients like ricotta, jam, or meringue.

Freezing Cookies

For longer storage, you can freeze your cookies. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to one year. First, let the cookies cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to airtight containers or freezer bags, adding parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Label the containers with the date and type of cookie.

Storing Different Types of Cookies

It is important to store different types of cookies separately. Soft cookies can moisten crisp cookies, and different flavour profiles can blend together. Store crisp cookies in a container with a loose-fitting cover, and soft and chewy cookies in a container with a tight-fitting lid.

Reheating Cookies

If your cookies have lost their freshness and become too soft, you can pop them back in the air fryer or oven to crisp them up. To reheat in the air fryer, place the cookies inside and air fry for a minute or two. For the oven, set the temperature to 350°F and bake for two to three minutes.

Frequently asked questions