Can I Bake Brownies in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can bake brownies in the air fryer—it’s a fast, efficient method that delivers fudgy, delicious results in under 15 minutes. With the right pan and temperature settings, your air fryer transforms into a mini convection oven, ensuring even baking and a perfectly crisp top. Say goodbye to long preheating and hello to quick, gooey brownies anytime!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bake brownies in an air fryer with proper timing and temperature adjustments.
• Use a lined or greased pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
• Preheat the air fryer for consistent, even baking results every time.
• Reduce temperature by 25°F compared to oven recipes to avoid over-baking.
• Check doneness early—air fryers cook faster, so start at 15 minutes.
• Small batches work best due to limited air fryer basket space.

Why Baking Brownies in an Air Fryer Might Be Your New Favorite Hack

Let’s be honest—baking brownies is one of life’s simplest pleasures. The smell of chocolate wafting through your kitchen, the anticipation of that first gooey bite… it’s almost magical. But what if I told you there’s a faster, more energy-efficient way to get that same delicious result? Enter the air fryer. Yes, that same countertop appliance you use for crispy chicken wings and reheating leftovers can actually bake brownies. And no, it’s not a gimmick—it’s a game-changer.

I first tried baking brownies in my air fryer on a whim. It was a rainy Sunday, and I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to wait an hour for the oven to preheat and bake. A quick Google search later, I found a few brave souls who’d already tested the waters. Skeptical but curious, I gave it a shot. Spoiler: I was pleasantly surprised. The edges were slightly crisp, the center was fudgy, and the whole thing took less than half the time of my usual oven method. Now, I’m here to share everything I’ve learned—so you can decide if baking brownies in the air fryer is right for you.

How Air Fryers Work and Why They Can Bake Brownies

Before diving into recipes and tips, let’s talk about the science behind air fryers. If you’re picturing a mini deep fryer, you’re not alone—but that’s not quite accurate. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around food at high speeds, using convection to cook and crisp the exterior. This process, called rapid air technology, mimics deep frying but with little to no oil. And yes, it’s great for more than just fries.

The Role of Convection in Baking

Convection ovens have been around for decades, and air fryers are essentially compact convection ovens. The fan inside pushes hot air evenly across the food, which means faster cooking and more even browning. For brownies, this means:

• Faster bake time: Most air fryer brownies take 12–20 minutes, compared to 25–35 in a conventional oven.
• Crispier edges: The circulating air creates a slightly firmer crust on the outside while keeping the center soft.
• Better moisture retention: Because the air is moving, moisture doesn’t settle, reducing the risk of soggy spots.

I noticed this right away with my first batch. The brownies had a delicate crust on top—like a thin layer of chocolate bark—while the inside stayed rich and fudgy. It was the best of both worlds.

Why Brownies Are a Good Fit for Air Fryers

Not all baked goods thrive in air fryers. Cakes with delicate textures (like angel food) can dry out, and soufflés are a no-go. But brownies? They’re dense, moist, and forgiving—perfect for the high-heat, high-speed environment of an air fryer. Here’s why:

• Thin batter consistency: Brownie batter spreads evenly in small pans, which fits the air fryer’s limited space.
• Short bake time: Less risk of overcooking, especially if you’re using a timer.
• No need for precise temperature: Most air fryer brownies work well at 320°F–350°F (160°C–175°C).

That said, there are a few caveats. Air fryers vary in size and power, so results can differ. But with the right pan and timing, you’ll get great results every time.

Choosing the Right Pan and Prep for Air Fryer Brownies

This is where things get real. Not all pans work in air fryers, and using the wrong one can ruin your batch—or worse, damage your appliance. Here’s what you need to know.

Best Pans for Air Fryer Brownies

Air fryers typically come with a basket, but that’s not ideal for brownies. You need something that holds the batter and conducts heat evenly. Here are the top options:

• Silicone molds: Flexible, non-stick, and easy to remove. Look for heat-resistant silicone (up to 450°F/230°C). A 6-inch round or square mold works best.
• Oven-safe ramekins: Ceramic or glass ramekins (6 oz or 8 oz) are great for single-serve brownies. Just make sure they fit in your air fryer basket.
• Metal cake pans: Lightweight aluminum or stainless steel pans (6–8 inches) work well. Avoid dark-colored pans, as they can overheat.
• Disposable aluminum pans: Convenient for cleanup, but check the dimensions. A 6×6-inch pan is usually safe.

I use a 7-inch round silicone mold, and it’s a perfect fit for my 5.8-quart air fryer. The brownies slide out effortlessly, and cleanup takes seconds.

Prepping the Pan: To Grease or Not?

This is a hot topic. Some people swear by greasing, others say it’s unnecessary. Here’s my take:

• Silicone molds: No greasing needed. The non-stick surface does all the work.
• Metal or glass pans: Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray, then line with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Disposable pans: A light spray is usually enough, but parchment is still a good idea.

Pro tip: If you’re using parchment, cut it to fit the pan and leave a little overhang on the sides. That way, you can lift the brownie out like a little tray—no scraping required.

Fitting the Pan in Your Air Fryer

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some have wide baskets, others are narrow and deep. Before you start, check:

• Height clearance: The pan should leave at least 1 inch of space above the batter for air circulation.
• Basket size: Measure your basket’s interior. If the pan is too big, it’ll block airflow and cook unevenly.
• Removable basket vs. oven-style: Some air fryers have a pull-out drawer, others have a door. Make sure your pan can be easily placed and removed.

I learned this the hard way. My first attempt used a 9-inch pan—too big for the basket. The edges burned, the center was undercooked, and I ended up with a chocolatey mess. Lesson learned: size matters.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Brownies in the Air Fryer

Now for the fun part—actually making the brownies. I’ll walk you through a simple, foolproof method that works for most air fryer models.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe makes 6–8 small brownies (depending on pan size). Feel free to double it for a larger batch.

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended)

For extra gooey brownies, add 1/4 cup of melted chocolate to the batter. For a fudgier texture, reduce the flour to 1/4 cup.

Mixing the Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This prevents lumps.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula—no electric mixer needed.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips (if using).

The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too dry, add 1–2 tbsp of milk. If too runny, add a bit more flour.

Pouring and Prepping for the Air Fryer

1. Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Place the pan in the air fryer basket. If using a silicone mold, put it on a heat-safe plate or tray—this makes handling easier.
3. Set the air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
4. Bake for 15 minutes. After 10 minutes, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
5. If needed, add 2–5 minutes. Avoid overcooking—air fryers heat fast, and brownies continue to set as they cool.

Cooling and Serving

1. Remove the pan from the air fryer. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes (this helps the brownies set).
2. Lift the brownie out using the parchment overhang (if used) or run a knife around the edges.
3. Slice and serve. For extra indulgence, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

My first successful batch took exactly 16 minutes. The texture? Perfect. Crispy edges, fudgy center, and a rich chocolate flavor. My kids devoured them in minutes—no leftovers, which is rare in my house.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to avoid them.

Overcooking the Brownies

Problem: Dry, crumbly brownies.
Why it happens: Air fryers cook faster than ovens, and many recipes don’t account for this.
Fix: Start checking at 10–12 minutes. Use the toothpick test: moist crumbs are good; wet batter means more time is needed.

Uneven Cooking

Problem: One side is overdone, the other is undercooked.
Why it happens: Poor airflow or a pan that’s too large.
Fix: Use a smaller pan and ensure it’s centered in the basket. If your air fryer has a rotating basket, use it. Otherwise, rotate the pan halfway through.

Brownies Sticking to the Pan

Problem: You can’t remove the brownies without breaking them.
Why it happens: Not enough grease or a non-stick pan.
Fix: Always line with parchment. For metal pans, use a light layer of butter or oil.

Too Much or Too Little Batter

Problem: Batter overflows or brownies are too thin.
Why it happens: Wrong pan size.
Fix: Use a pan that’s 1–2 inches smaller than your air fryer basket. For a 6-inch pan, fill it 3/4 full.

Air Fryer Smells Like Chocolate

Problem: Your air fryer has a lingering chocolate scent.
Why it happens: Baking releases oils and aromas.
Fix: Wipe down the basket with soapy water after use. Run an empty cycle with a lemon slice to freshen it up.

Data and Tips: Air Fryer Brownie Performance by Model

Air fryers vary widely, and so do results. Here’s a quick comparison of popular models and their brownie performance. This table is based on user reviews, testing, and my own experiments.

Air Fryer Model	Pan Size Recommended	Avg. Bake Time	Texture Notes	Best For
Ninja Foodi 5.8 qt	7-inch round	15–18 min	Crispy edges, fudgy center	Family-sized batches
Cosori 5.8 qt	6-inch square	12–15 min	Even bake, slight dome	Consistent results
Instant Vortex Plus 6 qt	6-inch round	14–17 min	Moist, less browning	Low-oil recipes
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL	8-inch round	18–20 min	Deep, rich flavor	Large servings
Dash Compact	4-inch ramekins	10–12 min	Single-serve, quick bake	Portion control

Key takeaways:

• Larger air fryers need bigger pans and longer bake times.
• Smaller models (like the Dash) work best for single servings.
• Even heat distribution is crucial. If your air fryer has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway.
• Temperature accuracy varies. Use an oven thermometer to check your air fryer’s actual temp.

I tested the Ninja Foodi and Cosori side by side. The Ninja gave me a slightly crispier crust, while the Cosori produced a more uniform texture. Both were delicious—just different.

Conclusion: Should You Bake Brownies in Your Air Fryer?

So, can you bake brownies in the air fryer? Absolutely. It’s faster, more energy-efficient, and delivers delicious results—especially if you love that crisp-edged, fudgy-center combo. But it’s not magic. You’ll need the right pan, the right timing, and a little patience to get it perfect.

For me, the air fryer has become my go-to for last-minute treats. No preheating, no wasted energy, and cleanup is a breeze. Plus, my kids love watching the basket spin while the brownies bake. It’s like a science experiment—with dessert as the reward.

That said, if you’re baking for a crowd or want a classic, bakery-style brownie, the oven is still your best bet. But for quick, satisfying batches—especially when you’re craving something sweet on a weeknight—the air fryer is a fantastic option. Give it a try. You might just find yourself baking brownies more often than you ever did before.

And hey, if your first batch isn’t perfect? That’s okay. I’ve had my share of chocolatey mishaps. The key is to experiment, take notes, and have fun. After all, brownies are supposed to be enjoyable—both to make and to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake brownies in the air fryer?

Yes, you can bake brownies in the air fryer! It’s a quick and efficient way to achieve fudgy, gooey brownies with a slightly crisp top. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature for best results.

What temperature should I use to bake brownies in an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for baking brownies. Cooking at this lower temperature prevents over-browning and ensures even baking without drying them out.

How long does it take to bake brownies in the air fryer?

Air fryer brownies typically take 12–18 minutes, depending on your model and batter thickness. Check for doneness with a toothpick—moist crumbs should cling to it for fudgy brownies.

Do I need to use a special pan for air fryer brownies?

Use an oven-safe, air fryer-friendly pan or silicone mold that fits inside your basket. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.

Can I use a regular brownie mix in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Store-bought or homemade brownie batter works perfectly in the air fryer. Just pour the mix into a greased pan and bake as directed, adjusting time as needed.

Why are my air fryer brownies dry or overcooked?

Overcooking or high heat are common culprits. Stick to 320°F (160°C) and check doneness early. Also, avoid overfilling the pan—air circulation is key to even baking.