Air-Fried Muffins: A Quick, Easy, And Delicious Treat!

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens for baking muffins, especially in hot weather. They are also more energy-efficient and faster than conventional ovens. Muffins can be made in an air fryer by preparing the batter and pouring it into silicone or paper muffin cups, placed directly in the fryer basket. The air fryer is then set to the desired temperature and the muffins are cooked for 11-15 minutes.

Choosing the right muffin cups

When it comes to choosing the right muffin cups for your air fryer muffins, you have a few options: silicone, paper, or a combination of the two. Here's a detailed guide to help you select the best option for your needs:

Silicone Muffin Cups

Silicone muffin cups are an excellent choice for air fryer muffins as they are reusable, durable, and hold their shape well. They stand up straight in the air fryer, making it easier to fill them with batter and fit more muffins into your air fryer. They are also non-stick, so your muffins will come out easily and won't stick to the cups. Silicone cups can withstand high temperatures, so you don't have to worry about them melting or losing their shape during the baking process. They are a good option if you want to avoid using paper products and reduce waste.

Paper Muffin Cups

Regular white paper muffin liners are not recommended to be used on their own in an air fryer, as they are too weak to hold the hot muffin batter without support. However, you can use paper muffin cups in combination with a silicone muffin cup or a muffin tin. Double-lining your paper cups can also make them sturdier and help them hold their shape better in the air fryer. This option is convenient if you don't have silicone cups or a muffin tin, or if you prefer to use paper liners for easier cleanup.

Choosing the Right Option for You

When deciding between silicone and paper muffin cups, consider your priorities. If you want a reusable and sturdy option that will hold its shape, silicone cups are ideal. If you prefer the convenience of paper liners for easy cleanup, doubling up on paper cups or using them with a muffin tin can be a good solution. You can also use paper liners inside silicone cups for added stability and to avoid the need for a muffin tin. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and what you have available.

How to arrange muffins in the air fryer basket

When arranging muffins in the air fryer basket, it's important to ensure they have enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and affect the texture of your muffins. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to arrange them for the best results:

Firstly, it's recommended to use silicone muffin cups or liners as they are sturdy, hold their shape well, and are reusable. Paper muffin cups can also be used, but they may need to be doubled up to make them extra sturdy, especially if you're not placing them in a muffin tin.

Now, onto the arrangement! If you're using an air fryer muffin tin, simply place the filled muffin cups into the tin's slots. If you don't have a muffin tin, carefully place the filled muffin cups directly into the air fryer basket. Leave some space between each cup to allow for even cooking. The exact number of muffins you can fit will depend on the size of your air fryer basket and the size of your muffin cups.

If your air fryer has a hot spot in the centre, try to avoid placing the muffins there. Instead, arrange them along the sides of the basket to prevent them from browning too quickly or forming a crust too early.

Once you've arranged the muffins, you're ready to start cooking! Just remember to preheat your air fryer before baking and keep an eye on the muffins to ensure they don't overcook. Enjoy your freshly baked treats!

How to avoid deformed muffins

Muffins are a great treat to make in an air fryer, but it can be disappointing when they come out deformed. Here are some tips to avoid this:

Firstly, it's important to understand why muffins can become deformed in an air fryer. Some air fryer models blow air directly onto the tops of the muffins, causing them to form a crust too early and, therefore, come out misshapen. For example, the tops may only rise on one side, and the batter may overflow from the liners.

To avoid this issue, you can try arranging the muffins in the basket so that the air does not blow directly onto them. Place them along the sides of the basket, avoiding the centre, especially if your air fryer has a hot spot in the middle. This will help prevent the batter from overflowing and ensure more even cooking.

Additionally, you can delay the formation of a crust by topping the muffins with coarse sugar or a streusel topping. This will result in well-risen muffin tops.

Another factor to consider is the type of muffin cups or cases you use. Silicone muffin cups are recommended as they are sturdier and can hold thick muffin batter better, reducing the chances of spilling or deformation. If using paper muffin liners, it is best to use them in conjunction with silicone cups or an air fryer cake tin or muffin tin, as they are not as strong and may not hold their shape well.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your muffins come out of the air fryer looking perfect!

How to store muffins

Muffins are best stored at room temperature in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to four days. However, if your muffins contain fresh fruit, they should be stored in the fridge and will last up to two days.

To store muffins in an airtight container, first let them cool completely on a wire rack. Then, line the bottom of the container with a layer of paper towel, which will help absorb excess moisture. Place the muffins in a single layer on the paper towel, and then place another sheet of paper towel on top of them before securing the lid and storing in a dry place.

If you want to store muffins for longer than four days, it is recommended to freeze them. First, place them on a sheet pan and put them in the freezer to flash freeze for about two hours to secure their shape. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat frozen muffins, let them thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave.

How to make banana muffins

Ingredients:

• Ripe bananas
• Egg
• Brown sugar
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Flour (all-purpose flour or a combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour)
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Baking powder
• Silicone muffin cases or paper muffin cases

Method:

• Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl.
• Add the egg, brown sugar, olive oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir well to combine.
• If using cinnamon, sprinkle it on top of the mixture, then add the flour and baking powder. Fold together until just combined.
• Divide the mixture evenly into muffin cases (silicone or paper). If using paper cases, you may need to double up to make them extra sturdy.
• Carefully place the muffin cases into the air fryer basket.
• Set the air fryer to 160°C / 320°F and bake for 15 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is on the smaller side.
• Remove the muffins from the air fryer and allow them to cool in the cases on a wire rack.
• Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or freeze for a few months.

Tips:

• The air fryer tends to brown muffins more than a conventional oven, but this does not affect the taste.
• For the best flavour, use very ripe bananas.
• If using store-bought American self-raising flour, be aware that it contains salt, so it may be too salty for this recipe. Instead, use all-purpose flour with baking powder.
• Try adding chocolate chips to your banana muffins for an extra treat!

Frequently asked questions