Can You Cook Toaster Strudels in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook Toaster Strudels in the air fryer for a faster, crispier, and more evenly baked treat compared to a toaster. Simply preheat the air fryer to 350°F, cook for 5–7 minutes, and enjoy golden, flaky pastries with perfectly melted filling—no thawing required. This method saves time and delivers consistent results every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fryer cooks Toaster Strudels perfectly—crispy outside, warm inside.
• No preheating needed: Save time; cook straight from frozen at 350°F.
• Shorter cook time: Air fry in 5-7 minutes vs. 10-12 in a toaster.
• Lightly spray oil: Enhances crispiness without drying out the pastry.
• Flip halfway: Ensures even browning and consistent texture.
• Watch closely: Prevent burning due to rapid air circulation.
• Serve immediately: Best enjoyed hot for gooey filling and flaky crust.

Why Air Fryer Toaster Strudels Might Be Your New Breakfast Hero

Let’s be real—mornings are chaotic. Between hitting snooze three times, packing lunches, and trying to remember if you fed the cat, breakfast often becomes an afterthought. That’s why I’ve become a bit obsessed with finding quick, delicious ways to start the day without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Enter: Toaster Strudels and the air fryer. You’ve probably popped a Strudel into the toaster or microwave a hundred times, but have you ever thought about using your air fryer? If you’re like me, you’ve stared at that sleek countertop appliance, wondering if it could handle more than just frozen chicken nuggets and sweet potato fries.

After testing this combo myself (and burning a few in the process), I’m here to answer the burning question: Can you cook Toaster Strudels in the air fryer? Spoiler alert: yes, you absolutely can—and in some ways, it’s even better than the traditional method. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to do it, why it works, and what you need to know to get perfectly golden, flaky strudels with gooey filling every single time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a crispy pastry, this might just be your new go-to trick.

How to Cook Toaster Strudels in the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, let’s cut to the chase. If you’re short on time and just want to know the basics, here’s how to do it. But stick around—there’s more to this than just pressing a button.

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer

First things first—don’t skip this step. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking oil (I use canola or avocado oil). This helps prevent sticking and gives the pastry a more even, golden crust. You can also use parchment paper with holes, but I’ve found that oil works just as well and is one less thing to clean up.

Step 2: Set the Temperature and Time

Here’s where things get interesting. Unlike a toaster, which uses radiant heat, an air fryer circulates hot air. That means you need to adjust your settings. I recommend setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 6 to 8 minutes. This range works for most models, but we’ll talk about variations later.

Step 3: Arrange the Strudels

Place the frozen Toaster Strudels in the basket in a single layer. Don’t overlap them—this is crucial. Air circulation is the secret to that crispy texture, and overcrowding will steam them instead of crisp them. I can usually fit two strudels in my 5.8-quart air fryer without touching.

Step 4: Flip Halfway (Optional but Recommended)

After about 3–4 minutes, open the basket and gently flip each strudel using tongs or a fork. This ensures even browning on both sides. I’ll admit, I sometimes skip this when I’m in a rush, and the bottom still gets crispy—but the top is noticeably lighter. For that perfect golden look, flip it!

Step 5: Check for Doneness

At 6 minutes, start checking. The strudel should be puffed up, golden brown, and the edges crisp. The filling should be hot but not leaking (if it is, you might have overcooked it). If it’s still pale, give it another minute. Remember: air fryers vary, so your first batch might need a little tweaking.

Step 6: Cool and Ice

Let the strudels cool for 1–2 minutes before drizzling with the icing packet. This prevents the icing from melting into a puddle. Pro tip: warm the icing packet in hot water for 10 seconds to make it smoother and easier to spread.

Why the Air Fryer Works Better (and When It Doesn’t)

So, why even bother with the air fryer when the toaster or microwave works fine? Let’s break it down—because there are real advantages (and a few trade-offs).

The Crispy Crust Advantage

The biggest win? Texture. Toaster Strudels from a toaster can be a bit rubbery on the outside and soft inside. The microwave? Soggy city. But the air fryer creates a flaky, almost croissant-like crust with a tender interior. That’s because the hot air circulates evenly, crisping the outer layers while keeping the inside moist. It’s like a mini convection oven in your kitchen.

Even Cooking, Less Risk of Burning

Toasters can be unpredictable. One minute your strudel is perfect, the next it’s a charcoal briquette. Air fryers are more consistent. The temperature is regulated, and you’re less likely to overcook the edges while undercooking the center. Plus, the flip step helps avoid hot spots.

No More Soggy Bottoms

Ever had a strudel that’s crispy on top but soggy on the bottom? That’s from sitting on a hot surface after cooking. In an air fryer, the perforated basket allows steam to escape, so the bottom stays crisp. No more “soggy strudel syndrome.”

When the Air Fryer Falls Short

But let’s be fair—it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Here’s where the air fryer isn’t the best choice:

• Speed: A toaster takes 2–3 minutes. Air fryer? 6–8 minutes. If you’re in a mad dash, the toaster wins.
• Batch size: Most air fryers only fit 1–2 strudels at a time. Need to feed a family? You’ll need multiple batches. A toaster oven or regular oven might be better for larger groups.
• Frozen vs. thawed: Air frying works best with frozen strudels. If you thaw them first, they can get too soft and lose their shape.

The Filling Factor

One thing to watch: the filling. If you overcook the strudel, the fruit or cream filling can bubble over and make a mess. I’ve had a strawberry strudel leak all over my basket (not fun to clean). The key is not to exceed 8 minutes unless your strudel is still pale. And if you’re using a model with a non-stick basket, a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually fixes it.

Air Fryer Settings: What Temperature and Time Work Best?

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Not all air fryers are created equal, and your settings might need tweaks based on your model, the strudel brand, and even your altitude. Here’s what I’ve learned from testing multiple batches.

Standard Settings for Most Air Fryers

For a 5–6 quart air fryer (like the Ninja, Cosori, or Instant Vortex), here’s my go-to:

• Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
• Time: 6 minutes (flip at 3 minutes)
• Result: Crispy exterior, hot filling, minimal leakage

This works for most major brands—Pillsbury, Great Value, Kroger, etc. I’ve tried them all.

Adjustments for Smaller or Larger Models

Got a mini air fryer (3–4 quarts)? You might need to lower the temperature slightly to avoid burning, since the heating element is closer to the food. Try:

• Temperature: 340°F (170°C)
• Time: 7–8 minutes (flip at 4 minutes)

For larger models (7+ quarts), you can often increase the temperature to 360°F (180°C) and reduce time to 5–6 minutes. The bigger cavity means less direct heat.

What If You Don’t Have a Thermometer?

No problem. Use visual cues:

• Too pale: Add 1 minute
• Golden brown: Perfect!
• Dark brown/black edges: Too hot—lower temp next time or flip sooner

Special Cases: Thick or Extra-Filled Strudels

Some strudels (like the Pillsbury “Double Filled” or limited-edition flavors) have more filling. These can take an extra minute or two. Watch closely—if you see filling bubbling out, it’s done. And if you’re using a strudel with a thicker crust (like a homemade version), add 1–2 minutes.

Altitude Adjustments

At high altitudes (above 3,000 feet), water boils at a lower temperature, which can affect cooking. You might need to increase time by 1–2 minutes or lower the temperature by 10–15°F to prevent drying out the pastry.

Pro Tips and Hacks for Perfect Air Fryer Toaster Strudels

Now that you know the basics, let’s level up. These are the tips I wish I’d known when I first started—they’ll save you time, mess, and frustration.

Hack #1: Use a Silicone Liner (or Parchment Paper)

Even with oil, strudels can stick. A reusable silicone liner (like the ones from Air Fryer Liners Co.) or parchment paper with holes makes cleanup a breeze. Just make sure it’s not blocking the airflow—trim it to fit the basket.

Hack #2: Preheat the Air Fryer (Yes, Really)

I used to skip this, but preheating for 3–5 minutes at 350°F makes a difference. It ensures the strudel starts cooking immediately, leading to a crispier crust. It’s like preheating a skillet for pancakes.

Hack #3: Customize Your Icing

The included icing packet is fine, but you can make it better. Try:

• Mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Adding a few drops of vanilla extract
• Drizzling with melted chocolate (for a “fancy” strudel)

I even made a cream cheese icing once—just mix 1 tbsp cream cheese, 1 tbsp powdered sugar, and 1 tsp milk. Game-changer.

Hack #4: Add a Crunchy Topping

Want to impress your kids (or yourself)? Sprinkle the strudels with:

• Coarse sugar before cooking
• Crushed graham crackers or cereal
• Cinnamon-sugar mix

This adds texture and makes them feel like a dessert instead of a frozen snack.

Hack #5: Reheat Leftovers (Yes, They Can Be Reheated!)

Hate wasting food? Toaster Strudels reheat beautifully in the air fryer. Set to 325°F for 2–3 minutes. They won’t be as crispy as fresh, but they’ll be close. Just don’t microwave them—they’ll turn into a gummy mess.

Hack #6: Cook from Frozen (No Thawing!)

This is non-negotiable. Thawed strudels lose their structure and can collapse in the air fryer. Always cook them straight from the freezer. If you’re in a hurry, use the “quick thaw” setting on your microwave for 15 seconds, but I don’t recommend it—it can make the pastry rubbery.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Let’s talk about the pitfalls. I’ve made every one of these mistakes, so you don’t have to.

Mistake #1: Overcrowding the Basket

It’s tempting to fit three strudels in, but don’t. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to steamed (not crispy) strudels. Stick to 1–2 at a time. If you’re feeding a crowd, cook in batches.

Mistake #2: Not Flipping (or Flipping Too Hard)

Flipping ensures even browning, but if you’re too rough, you can burst the filling. Use silicone-tipped tongs or a fork to gently turn them. And don’t flip too early—wait until the first side is set (about 3 minutes).

Mistake #3: Ignoring the Icing Packet

The icing is part of the experience! But if you ice them right out of the air fryer, it’ll melt into a puddle. Let them cool for 1–2 minutes first. Or, if you’re impatient (like me), use a fork to drizzle it in zigzags—it cools faster.

Mistake #4: Using Too Much Oil

A light spray is enough. Too much oil can make the pastry greasy and cause smoke. If you see smoke, reduce the oil next time.

Mistake #5: Forgetting to Clean the Basket

Burnt filling residue can smoke in future batches. After cooking, wipe the basket with a damp cloth or soak it in warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers—they can damage non-stick coatings.

Data Table: Air Fryer Toaster Strudel Cooking Guide

Air Fryer Size	Temperature	Time (Minutes)	Flip?	Notes
3–4 quarts	340°F (170°C)	7–8	Yes (at 4 min)	Smaller cavity; watch for browning
5–6 quarts	350°F (175°C)	6–8	Yes (at 3–4 min)	Best for most home models
7+ quarts	360°F (180°C)	5–6	Yes (at 3 min)	Less direct heat; crispier crust
All sizes	325°F (160°C)	2–3	No	For reheating leftovers

The Verdict: Should You Air Fry Your Toaster Strudels?

So, after all this testing, what’s the final word? Yes, you should absolutely cook Toaster Strudels in the air fryer—but only if you value texture and don’t mind waiting an extra 3–4 minutes. The air fryer delivers a crispier, flakier pastry with a hot, gooey center that the toaster and microwave simply can’t match. It’s not the fastest method, but it’s the most satisfying.

That said, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re in a rush, the toaster still wins. If you’re feeding a family, the oven might be more practical. But for a solo breakfast, a quick snack, or when you want that “just-made” bakery feel, the air fryer is a game-changer.

And hey, if you’re like me, you’ll find yourself experimenting—adding toppings, trying new icing combos, even making “strudel sandwiches” with cream cheese and fruit. The air fryer isn’t just a tool; it’s an invitation to play. So go ahead, pop in a strudel, set that timer, and enjoy the smell of warm, flaky pastry filling your kitchen. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook Toaster Strudels in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook Toaster Strudels in the air fryer! It’s a quick and easy method that yields a crispy, golden pastry with a gooey filling. Just follow the right temperature and timing for best results.

What’s the best way to cook Toaster Strudels in the air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C), place the frozen strudels in a single layer, and cook for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway through for even browning. This method ensures a crisp exterior without drying out the filling.

Do I need to adjust cooking time for air fryer Toaster Strudels?

Yes, compared to a toaster or microwave, air fryer cooking time is slightly longer—around 8–10 minutes. Since air fryers vary in power, check after 7 minutes to avoid overcooking. The keyword here is *air fryer Toaster Strudels*, which often require a bit more time than traditional methods.

Can I cook multiple Toaster Strudels in the air fryer at once?

You can cook multiple strudels, but avoid overcrowding to ensure even air circulation. Leave space between each pastry for crispy results. For best outcomes, cook in batches if needed.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for Toaster Strudels?

Preheating is recommended (360°F for 3–5 minutes) to ensure consistent cooking and a crisp texture. Skipping this step may result in uneven browning or a soggy crust.

Can I add glaze or toppings before air frying Toaster Strudels?

It’s best to add glaze or toppings *after* cooking, as the high heat can cause sugary glazes to burn or melt prematurely. Drizzle the included icing or add sprinkles once the strudels are golden and warm.