Can You Cook a Pie in an Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can absolutely cook a pie in an air fryer—it’s a quick, energy-efficient method that delivers golden, flaky crusts and perfectly heated fillings in minutes. From savory pot pies to sweet fruit pies, the air fryer’s rapid air circulation ensures even baking without drying out your dessert or overcooking delicate ingredients.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook pies in an air fryer with crispy, even results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure consistent baking and prevent sogginess.
• Use oven-safe dishes or pie pans that fit your air fryer basket.
• Adjust time and temperature—typically 320°F for 15–20 minutes for most pies.
• Shield crust with foil to prevent over-browning during cooking.
• Cook in batches if needed—avoid overcrowding for best air circulation.

Can You Cook a Pie in an Air Fryer? Discover How

Imagine this: it’s a cozy Sunday afternoon, and the smell of a freshly baked pie wafts through your kitchen. But instead of cranking up your oven for an hour, you pop that pie into your air fryer, and 20 minutes later—voilà—you’re biting into a golden, flaky crust with a bubbling fruit or savory filling. Sounds like magic, right? Well, it’s not. It’s the power of the air fryer, and yes, you absolutely can cook a pie in one. Whether you’re craving a classic apple pie, a handheld chicken pot pie, or even a mini quiche, the air fryer is up for the task.

But before you start tossing your favorite pie recipes into the air fryer basket, there’s a bit of finesse involved. Air fryers work by circulating hot air at high speeds, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist. This makes them perfect for achieving that golden crust and tender filling without drying out your pie. However, the key is knowing how to adapt your recipes, manage temperatures, and avoid common pitfalls. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to turn your air fryer into a pie-making powerhouse—no oven required.

How Air Fryers Work and Why They’re Great for Pies

The Science Behind Crispy, Even Baking

Air fryers use rapid air technology—essentially a high-powered convection oven in a compact package. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan circulates it around the food at high speed. This creates a Maillard reaction (the browning effect) on the surface, giving your pie crust that signature crispness, while the inside stays moist and tender. Unlike traditional ovens, which can have hot spots or uneven heat distribution, air fryers provide consistent results, making them ideal for delicate pastries.

For pies, this means you get a flaky, golden crust without overbaking the filling. Plus, since air fryers preheat quickly (often in 3–5 minutes), you save time and energy. No more waiting 20 minutes for your oven to reach 375°F (190°C). Just set the timer, and you’re good to go.

Benefits of Air Fryer Pies

• Faster cooking times: Most pies cook in 15–25 minutes, compared to 45+ minutes in an oven.
• Less energy use: Air fryers consume up to 70% less energy than conventional ovens.
• No preheating needed (for some models): Many modern air fryers start cooking immediately.
• Perfect for small batches: Ideal for making 1–2 mini pies instead of a whole 9-inch pie.
• Easy cleanup: Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe.

One thing to keep in mind: air fryers are smaller than ovens, so you’ll need to adjust your pie size. But that’s actually a bonus if you’re cooking for one or two people—no leftovers, no waste!

Types of Pies You Can Make in an Air Fryer

Sweet Pies: From Classic to Creative

Fruit pies are the easiest to adapt to the air fryer. Think apple, cherry, blueberry, or peach—anything with a thick filling that holds its shape. The key is using a thicker crust (store-bought or homemade) to prevent sogginess. Here’s a simple example:

• Mini Apple Pie: Use a muffin tin to shape individual pie crusts. Fill with sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice. Top with a lattice crust or full top. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes. The result? A crisp, caramelized crust and tender apples in under 25 minutes.
• Peach Galette: Skip the pie plate and roll out a rustic crust. Arrange peach slices in the center, fold the edges, and air fry for 15–18 minutes. The open design lets steam escape, preventing a soggy bottom.

Pro tip: Brush the crust with egg wash or milk before cooking for a glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch.

Savory Pies: Hearty and Hands-On

Savory pies like chicken pot pie, beef empanadas, or mini quiches work incredibly well in air fryers. The high heat seals in moisture while crisping the crust. Try this:

• Chicken Pot Pie (Handheld): Use pre-cooked chicken, frozen mixed veggies, and a creamy sauce. Spoon into small pie crusts (store-bought rounds or homemade). Seal with a top crust, crimp the edges, and air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 20–25 minutes. The filling stays juicy, and the crust is perfectly browned.
• Spinach and Feta Pies: Mix cooked spinach, feta, garlic, and a bit of egg (to bind). Fill phyllo dough cups or mini pie tins. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden.

Note: For savory pies, avoid overly wet fillings. Drain canned veggies or sauté mushrooms to remove excess liquid. A tablespoon of cornstarch or flour in the filling can help thicken it.

No-Bake and Pre-Made Pies

Not ready to make a pie from scratch? No problem! Air fryers are great for reheating or finishing pre-made pies:

• Store-bought pie slices: Reheat in the air fryer at 325°F (163°C) for 5–7 minutes for a crispy crust.
• Frozen hand pies: No thawing needed. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes.
• No-bake cheesecake (crust only): Crisp a graham cracker crust for 3–5 minutes before adding the filling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Perfect Air Fryer Pie

Choosing the Right Pie Dish

Not all pie dishes are air fryer-friendly. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: Your dish must fit in the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch of space around the sides for air circulation. A 6–7 inch round or square dish is ideal.
• Material: Use oven-safe glass, ceramic, or metal. Avoid plastic or non-stick coatings that can degrade at high heat.
• Depth: Shallow dishes (1.5–2 inches deep) work best to ensure even cooking.

DIY hack: Use a muffin tin for mini pies or a small cast-iron skillet for rustic single-serve pies.

Preparing the Filling and Crust

The filling is the heart of your pie, but the crust is the star. Here’s how to prep both:

• Fruit fillings: Toss fruit with sugar, spices, and a thickener (cornstarch, tapioca, or flour). Let it sit for 10 minutes to release juices, then drain excess liquid. This prevents a soggy crust.
• Savory fillings: Pre-cook meats and veggies to remove moisture. Add a binder like egg or flour to prevent crumbling.
• Crust: Use a sturdy, rolled-out dough (at least 1/8 inch thick). For extra crispiness, brush with melted butter or egg wash before adding filling. If using a top crust, cut slits for steam to escape.

Temperature and Timing Tips

Every air fryer is different, so use these as guidelines and adjust as needed:

Pie Type	Temperature (°F/°C)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
Mini fruit pie	350°F (175°C)	18–22	Check at 15 minutes; rotate halfway
Chicken pot pie	360°F (182°C)	20–25	Cover with foil if crust browns too quickly
Quiche	325°F (163°C)	20–25	Center should be set, not jiggly
Reheated pie slice	325°F (163°C)	5–7	Use a liner to prevent sticking
Frozen hand pie	350°F (175°C)	12–15	No thawing needed

Pro tip: Rotate your pie halfway through cooking for even browning. If the crust browns too fast, cover it with foil.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overfilling the Pie

One of the biggest mistakes? Filling the pie too much. Air fryers cook quickly, and excess filling can bubble over, making a mess and burning onto the basket. Here’s how to fix it:

• Fill only 3/4 of the way full.
• Use a thickener (cornstarch, tapioca) to reduce liquid.
• For fruit pies, let the filling sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess juice.

Soggy Bottom Crust

Nobody likes a soggy pie bottom. To prevent it:

• Pre-cook the crust: Blind bake it for 5 minutes before adding filling.
• Use a crust shield: Place a small metal rack or parchment paper under the pie dish to elevate it slightly.
• Add a layer of crumbs: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or breadcrumbs on the crust before filling.

Uneven Cooking

Air fryers have hot spots. To ensure even cooking:

• Rotate the pie halfway through.
• Use a pie dish with low sides (1–2 inches) for better air circulation.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook one pie at a time.

Creative Ideas and Pro Tips

Beyond the Basics: Unique Air Fryer Pie Recipes

Ready to level up? Try these creative takes:

• S’mores Pie: Fill a graham cracker crust with melted chocolate, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 8–10 minutes until marshmallows are golden.
• Breakfast Pie: Mix scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon. Pour into a crust and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 18–20 minutes.
• Vegetarian Samosas: Use store-bought samosa wrappers. Fill with spiced potatoes and peas. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Pro Tips for Pie Perfection

• Use parchment paper: Line the basket or dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Brush with butter or oil: This adds flavor and helps the crust brown evenly.
• Let it rest: Allow the pie to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This lets the filling set.
• Freeze for later: Assemble pies ahead of time and freeze unbaked. Add 2–3 minutes to the cook time.

And here’s a game-changer: make mini pies for parties! Use muffin tins or silicone molds to create individual servings. They’re perfect for portion control and look adorable on a dessert table.

Conclusion: Your Air Fryer Is a Pie-Making Superstar

So, can you cook a pie in an air fryer? Absolutely—and it’s easier than you think. With the right dish, filling, and technique, your air fryer can deliver pies that are just as delicious (and often faster) than oven-baked ones. Whether you’re craving a classic fruit pie, a hearty chicken pot pie, or a creative twist like s’mores pie, the air fryer is up to the challenge.

Remember, the key to success is adapting your recipes to the air fryer’s unique strengths: high heat, rapid cooking, and compact size. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different fillings, crusts, and cooking times. And if something doesn’t turn out perfectly the first time, that’s okay—every pie is a learning opportunity.

Next time you’re in the mood for pie, skip the oven. Grab your air fryer, whip up a batch of your favorite filling, and enjoy a golden, flaky, delicious treat in under 30 minutes. Your taste buds (and your energy bill) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook a pie in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook a pie in an air fryer! The appliance’s rapid air circulation ensures even baking, making it perfect for both sweet and savory pies.

What types of pies work best in an air fryer?

Hand pies, mini pies, and small quiches are ideal due to the air fryer’s compact size. Larger pies may need adjustments to fit, but pre-baked crusts or store-bought shells simplify the process.

How long does it take to cook a pie in an air fryer?

Most pies cook in 8–15 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on size and filling. Always check for a golden crust and bubbling filling to ensure doneness.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for pie?

Preheating for 3–5 minutes helps achieve a crispy crust, especially for raw or frozen pies. Skipping this step may result in uneven cooking.

Can you cook a frozen pie in an air fryer?

Yes, air fryers excel at cooking frozen pies. Add 2–4 minutes to the cooking time and ensure the filling reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

What are the best air fryer settings for pie?

Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for most pies. Use the “bake” or “air fry” mode, and flip or rotate the pie halfway for even browning.