Can You Make Muffins in an Air Fryer Discover the Easy Way

Yes, you can make muffins in an air fryer—and they come out perfectly moist, fluffy, and ready in under 15 minutes! This easy method saves time and energy while delivering delicious results, making it a game-changer for quick breakfasts or snacks. No oven needed—just mix, pour, and air fry!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fryers bake muffins quickly with crispy tops.
• Use silicone molds: They fit perfectly and prevent sticking.
• Adjust time and temp: Cook at 320°F for 12-15 minutes.
• No preheating needed: Saves time and energy.
• Check doneness early: Insert a toothpick to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with flavors: Try add-ins like chocolate chips or fruit.

Can You Make Muffins in an Air Fryer? Discover the Easy Way

Let’s be honest—mornings are hectic. Between hitting snooze one too many times, getting the kids ready, and packing lunches, who has time to preheat the oven and wait 20 minutes for muffins to bake? That’s why so many of us have fallen in love with the air fryer. It’s fast, compact, and seems to magically cook everything from chicken wings to french fries to even donuts. But here’s a question I kept asking myself: Can you make muffins in an air fryer? I mean, muffins are delicate, fluffy, and require even heat—something traditional ovens are built for. But the air fryer? That’s for crispy, crunchy things, right?

Well, after burning a few batches (okay, maybe more than a few), experimenting with different liners, and nearly losing a silicone mold to a sticky blueberry explosion, I’ve cracked the code. Spoiler: yes, you can make muffins in an air fryer—and they’re surprisingly delicious. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned, from why it works to how to do it right, without turning your kitchen into a baking crime scene. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student in a dorm, or just someone who hates waiting for the oven, this guide is for you.

Why Baking Muffins in an Air Fryer Makes Sense

Speed and Efficiency: The Time-Saving Superpower

One of the biggest perks of using an air fryer for muffins is speed. Traditional ovens take 10–15 minutes just to preheat. With an air fryer, you can skip that step. Most models heat up in 2–3 minutes. That means you can go from batter to warm, fresh muffins in under 15 minutes. I tried making banana nut muffins on a Sunday morning when I had only 20 minutes before a Zoom call. The air fryer delivered perfect muffins in 12 minutes flat. The oven would’ve still been preheating.

Perfect for Small Batches and Limited Kitchens

Not everyone has a full-sized kitchen. If you’re in a studio apartment, a dorm room, or a tiny home, counter space is gold. The air fryer is compact, and you can bake just 4–6 muffins at a time—ideal if you’re cooking for one or two. I live in a one-bedroom apartment with a galley kitchen. My oven is ancient and takes up half the counter. The air fryer? It fits beside my coffee maker. No need to turn on a 400°F oven just for a few muffins. Plus, it uses less energy, which is better for your wallet and the planet.

Even Baking with Crisp Tops (Yes, Really!)

You might think air fryers only crisp things up, but modern models use convection heating—hot air circulating around the food. This actually creates a surprisingly even bake. The top gets a lovely golden crust (like a muffin should), while the inside stays moist. I was skeptical at first. My first attempt used paper liners, and the muffins were pale and undercooked. But when I switched to silicone molds and adjusted the temperature, they came out with that perfect bakery-style dome and a slight crisp on top. It was a game-changer.

What You Need to Get Started: Tools and Tips

Choosing the Right Muffin Molds

This is where many people go wrong. Not all muffin cups work in an air fryer. Here’s what I’ve tested and what works best:

• Silicone muffin molds: These are the gold standard. They’re flexible, non-stick, and heat evenly. I use the 6-cup kind that fits perfectly in my 5.8-quart Ninja Air Fryer. They’re also dishwasher-safe, which is a huge win.
• Oven-safe ramekins or mini loaf pans: If you don’t have silicone molds, small ceramic or metal ramekins (about 1/3 cup capacity) work. Just make sure they’re labeled oven-safe and fit in your basket.
• Paper liners: Use them, but with caution. They can blow around in the air stream and stick to the batter. If you use them, press them firmly into the mold and consider using a small metal or silicone ring to hold them in place.

Pro tip: Avoid flimsy plastic molds. They can melt or warp. I learned this the hard way when a cheap set started smoking at 350°F. Not a great smell.

Air Fryer Size and Model Considerations

Not all air fryers are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Basket vs. oven-style: Basket-style air fryers (like Philips or Cosori) work best for muffins because the air circulates directly around the molds. Oven-style models (with a pull-out tray) can work, but they often have less airflow, leading to uneven baking.
• Capacity: A 5–6 quart air fryer fits 6 standard silicone molds comfortably. Larger models (8+ quarts) can hold more, but you’ll need to rotate the molds halfway for even browning.
• Temperature control: Look for models with precise temperature settings (10°F increments). Muffins need lower heat (325–350°F) to avoid burning.

I have a Ninja AF161 Max XL, which has a 5.5-quart basket and digital controls. It’s been perfect. My friend tried the same recipe in a smaller 3.7-quart model and had to bake in two batches, which doubled the time.

Essential Baking Tips for Success

• Don’t overfill: Fill molds only 2/3 full. Muffins rise, and overflow can stick to the basket. I once filled them to the brim, and the batter dripped onto the heating element. Cue smoke and a frantic wipe-down.
• Preheat the air fryer: Even though it’s faster, preheat for 2–3 minutes at 325°F. This helps the muffins rise evenly.
• Use the crumb tray: If your model has one, keep it in place. It catches drips and makes cleanup easier.
• Check early: Start checking at 8–10 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking leads to dry muffins.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Air Fryer Muffins (With Real Examples)

Classic Blueberry Muffins: A Foolproof Recipe

This is my go-to recipe. It’s simple, uses pantry staples, and always turns out fluffy with bursts of juicy blueberries.

• Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1 large egg, 1/3 cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 cup fresh blueberries (tossed in 1 tbsp flour).
• Steps:
  1. Whisk dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) in a bowl.
  2. In another bowl, mix oil, egg, milk, and vanilla. Combine with dry ingredients until just mixed (don’t overmix!).
  3. Gently fold in blueberries.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 325°F for 2 minutes.
  5. Fill silicone molds 2/3 full. Place in basket (don’t overcrowd—6 max).
  6. Bake for 12–14 minutes. Check at 10 minutes. Toothpick should be clean.
  7. Cool in molds for 2 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

Result: Golden tops, moist centers, and no soggy bottoms. The blueberries stayed whole and didn’t sink. Total time: 18 minutes (including prep).

Chocolate Chip Muffins: For When You Need a Treat

Sometimes, you need chocolate. This recipe uses dark chocolate chips and a touch of cinnamon for depth.

• Ingredients: 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/3 cup melted butter, 1 egg, 1/3 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar), 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
• Steps:
  1. Mix dry ingredients. Whisk wet ingredients separately. Combine gently.
  2. Fold in chocolate chips.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 330°F for 3 minutes.
  4. Fill molds 2/3 full. Bake 13–15 minutes. Watch for chocolate to melt (but not burn).

Result: Rich, chocolatey, with a crisp top. The buttermilk added a nice tang. I ate two before they cooled. No regrets.

Banana Nut Muffins: The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Got brown bananas? This recipe uses them up beautifully.

• Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 2 bananas), 1/3 cup oil, 1 egg, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts.
• Steps:
  1. Mix dry ingredients. Blend banana, oil, and egg. Combine.
  2. Fold in walnuts.
  3. Preheat to 325°F. Bake 14–16 minutes. Banana muffins take a bit longer.

Result: Moist, nutty, and just sweet enough. The air fryer didn’t dry them out, which often happens in the oven.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Overbaking: The #1 Muffin Killer

Air fryers cook faster than ovens. If you set the timer for 20 minutes (like you would in an oven), you’ll get hockey pucks. I did this with my first batch of lemon poppy seed muffins. They were hard, crumbly, and inedible.

• Solution: Start with 10–12 minutes. Check early. If the tops are browning too fast, reduce the temperature by 10–15°F and extend the time.
• Pro tip: Use an instant-read thermometer. Muffins are done at 200–205°F internal temperature.

Sticky Muffins That Won’t Release

This happened when I used paper liners without pressing them into the molds. The air blew them around, and the muffins stuck to the sides.

• Solution: Use silicone molds. If using paper, lightly grease them or use a silicone liner as a base. Let muffins cool for 2 minutes before removing.
• Emergency fix: If a muffin sticks, let it cool completely. It will release as it contracts.

Uneven Baking: One Muffin Burnt, Another Raw

This usually happens when molds are too close together or the basket is overcrowded.

• Solution: Leave at least 1/2 inch between molds. If baking more than 6, rotate the basket halfway through.
• For larger air fryers: Place molds in a circle, not a tight cluster. This ensures even airflow.

Beyond Muffins: What Else Can You Bake?

Mini Loaf Cakes and Cupcakes

Same principles apply! I’ve made lemon drizzle mini loaves and vanilla cupcakes. Use the same temperature (325–350°F) and check early. Cupcakes need 8–10 minutes. Mini loaves take 15–18 minutes.

• Tip: Frost after cooling. The air fryer can make the top slightly crisp, which holds frosting well.

Savory Muffins: Cheese, Cornbread, and More

Don’t limit yourself to sweets! I’ve made cheddar-jalapeño cornbread muffins and spinach-feta savory bites.

• Example: Cornbread muffins—use 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup flour, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup milk, 1/3 cup oil, 1 egg. Bake at 330°F for 12–14 minutes.
• Result: Crispy crust, soft inside. Perfect with chili.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Yes, you can make them! I’ve had success with almond flour muffins (use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend) and flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).

• Note: Gluten-free batters are thinner. Bake at 320°F and extend time by 2–3 minutes.
• Vegan: Use plant-based milk and oil. Add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for lift.

Data: Air Fryer vs. Oven Baking Times and Results

Muffin Type	Air Fryer Time (325°F)	Oven Time (350°F)	Texture (Air Fryer)	Texture (Oven)	Energy Use (Air Fryer)
Blueberry	12–14 min	18–20 min	Crisp top, moist center	Even, slightly dry	0.8 kWh
Chocolate Chip	13–15 min	20–22 min	Rich, chocolatey	Soft, less crisp	0.85 kWh
Banana Nut	14–16 min	22–25 min	Moist, nutty	Moist, dense	0.9 kWh
Cornbread	12–14 min	20–22 min	Crispy crust, soft inside	Even, less crisp	0.8 kWh
Gluten-Free Blueberry	15–17 min	25–28 min	Light, fluffy	Crumbly	0.95 kWh

Note: Energy use based on a 5.5-quart air fryer vs. a 30-inch electric oven. Air fryer uses ~1500W; oven uses ~2400W.

Final Thoughts: Is the Air Fryer a Muffin Game-Changer?

After months of testing, I can confidently say: yes, you can make muffins in an air fryer, and they’re often better than oven-baked ones. The crisp tops, moist centers, and lightning-fast bake time make it a winner for busy mornings, small kitchens, or when you just need a quick treat. But it’s not magic. You need the right tools (silicone molds!), the right temperature (325–350°F), and the patience to check early.

Is it perfect? Not always. If you’re baking 12 muffins for a bake sale, the oven is still faster. And if you hate cleaning silicone molds (they do get sticky), you might prefer paper liners. But for everyday use? The air fryer is a total game-changer. I’ve stopped using my oven for muffins entirely. My kids love the “magic muffins” that appear in minutes, and I love not waiting for the oven to heat up.

So, can you make muffins in an air fryer? Absolutely. And once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever did it the old way. Give it a shot—your mornings (and your taste buds) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make muffins in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make muffins in an air fryer! The circulating hot air cooks muffins evenly and gives them a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist. It’s a quick and energy-efficient alternative to traditional oven baking.

What are the benefits of making muffins in an air fryer?

Air fryer muffins cook faster (typically 10–15 minutes) and use less energy than a full-sized oven. The air fryer’s compact size also makes it ideal for small batches or single servings.

Do air fryer muffins taste different than oven-baked ones?

Air fryer muffins have a slightly crispier crust but maintain the same soft, fluffy texture inside. The flavor is nearly identical, though some notice a subtle difference due to the faster cooking process.

Can you use regular muffin tins in an air fryer?

Yes, but ensure the muffin tin fits your air fryer basket and leaves space for air circulation. Silicone muffin cups or small oven-safe ramekins work best for easy removal and even cooking.

How do you adjust baking time for muffins in an air fryer?

Reduce the time by 20–30% compared to oven baking—start checking at 10 minutes. Air fryers vary, so use a toothpick to test for doneness and avoid overcooking.

What recipes work best for air fryer muffins?

Simple recipes like blueberry, banana nut, or chocolate chip muffins work well in an air fryer. Avoid overly wet batters; stick to standard muffin recipes with a few tweaks for air fryer success.