Can I Bake Frozen Cookies in an Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can bake frozen cookies in an air fryer—and they come out perfectly crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside in under 10 minutes. No preheating or thawing needed; just place them in a single layer, set the temperature to 320°F (160°C), and air fry for 6–8 minutes for bakery-style results every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bake frozen cookies in an air fryer for quick, crispy results without thawing.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
• Space cookies 2 inches apart to allow proper air circulation and browning.
• Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 8-12 minutes, checking halfway for doneness.
• Use parchment paper to avoid mess and simplify cleanup.
• Avoid overcrowding to maintain consistent texture and prevent undercooking.

Why Baking Frozen Cookies in an Air Fryer Might Just Be Your New Favorite Hack

Let’s be honest—sometimes you’re craving warm, gooey cookies, but the idea of preheating the oven for 20 minutes just feels like too much work. You glance at the clock, sigh, and maybe reach for a bag of frozen cookies from the back of the freezer. But what if I told you there’s a faster, more energy-efficient way to turn those frozen dough rounds into golden, delicious cookies without sacrificing flavor or texture? Enter the air fryer.

As someone who’s experimented with everything from air-fried Brussels sprouts to frozen pizza, I’ve found that this countertop wonder can handle more than just reheating leftovers. When it comes to baking frozen cookies in an air fryer, the results can be surprisingly good—crisp on the outside, soft in the center, and ready in under 15 minutes. No preheating. No waiting. Just fresh cookies, fast. But is it really that simple? And more importantly, does it actually work for all kinds of frozen cookies? In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned—what works, what doesn’t, and how to get the best results every time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a warm cookie with minimal effort, this guide is for you.

How Air Fryers Work—And Why They Can Handle Frozen Cookies

Understanding the Air Fryer’s Cooking Mechanism

Before we dive into the cookie specifics, let’s talk about how air fryers actually work. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat from coils, an air fryer uses rapid circulated hot air to cook food. A powerful fan pushes hot air (usually between 300°F and 400°F) around the food in a small, enclosed basket, creating a convection effect similar to a convection oven—but faster and more efficient.

This means food cooks from all sides at once, which is perfect for items like frozen chicken nuggets, fries, and yes—frozen cookies. The even airflow helps prevent soggy centers and ensures browning without the need for excessive oil.

Why This Matters for Frozen Cookies

Frozen cookie dough is designed to hold its shape during freezing and baking. When you bake it in a conventional oven, the outer edges start to set while the center slowly thaws and bakes. In an air fryer, the rapid airflow speeds up this process. The outside browns quickly, while the inside still gets that soft, chewy texture we love—especially if you pull them out just before they’re fully done.

But here’s the catch: because the air fryer is so efficient, you can’t just follow the oven instructions. If you bake frozen cookies at 350°F for 12 minutes (the standard oven time), you’ll likely end up with burnt edges and undercooked centers. That’s why adjusting temperature, time, and spacing is key.

Real-World Example: My First Attempt

The first time I tried this, I used a popular brand of frozen chocolate chip cookies. I set the air fryer to 350°F and cooked them for 10 minutes—exactly what the box said for the oven. Big mistake. The edges were dark brown, almost black, and the centers were still icy. I learned quickly: lower temperature, shorter time, and space between cookies are essential.

After some trial and error (and a few batches of “crispy hockey pucks”), I found the sweet spot. Now, I consistently get bakery-style cookies in under 12 minutes. And I’ve tested everything from chocolate chip and sugar cookies to oatmeal raisin and even gluten-free varieties.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Frozen Cookies in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Choose the Right Air Fryer and Basket

Not all air fryers are created equal. If you have a small basket (3-quart or less), you’ll be limited to 3–4 cookies at a time. Larger models (5-quart or more) can fit 6–8, depending on cookie size. I use a 5.8-quart Ninja Air Fryer, which gives me enough room to space the cookies without overcrowding.

Pro tip: If your basket is non-stick, you can place the frozen cookies directly in it. If it’s not, or you’re worried about sticking, use parchment paper with holes cut out (air fryer liners work great). Just make sure the airflow isn’t blocked—this is crucial for even cooking.

Step 2: Preheat (Yes, It Helps—Even in an Air Fryer)

You might think, “Why preheat? The air fryer heats up fast!” And you’re right—it does. But preheating for 3–5 minutes ensures the internal temperature is stable when you add the cookies. This helps prevent uneven baking and gives you more consistent results.

I set my air fryer to 320°F and let it run for 5 minutes. This lower starting temperature prevents scorching while still allowing the cookies to bake through.

Step 3: Arrange the Cookies with Space

Place the frozen cookies in a single layer, leaving at least 1 inch between each one. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning. Trust me—I’ve tried squeezing in 6 cookies in a 3-quart basket. They came out pale, soggy, and stuck together.

If you’re using larger cookies (like bakery-style 3-inch rounds), stick to 3–4 per batch. For smaller ones (1.5 inches), you can fit 6–8.

Step 4: Bake at the Right Temperature and Time

Here’s the golden rule: start at 320°F for 8–10 minutes. This is lower than the typical oven temperature (350°F–375°F), but it’s perfect for the air fryer’s intense airflow.

• After 8 minutes, check the cookies. They should be lightly golden around the edges.
• If they’re still pale, add 1–2 more minutes.
• For extra gooey centers, remove them at 8 minutes. For crispier edges, go up to 10.

Never cook frozen cookies at 350°F or higher in an air fryer unless you want a charcoal-like result.

Step 5: Let Them Rest Before Eating

This is the hardest part—waiting. As soon as the cookies come out, they’re hot and fragile. Let them sit in the basket (or on a wire rack) for 2–3 minutes. This allows the center to finish cooking from residual heat and helps them hold their shape.

I learned this the hard way when I grabbed one right away and it crumbled into a chocolate chip puddle. Not a total loss—but definitely not Instagram-worthy.

Best Frozen Cookies to Bake in an Air Fryer (And Which Ones to Avoid)

Top Picks for Air Fryer Success

Not all frozen cookies are ideal for air frying, but many work surprisingly well. Here are the types I’ve had the most success with:

• Chocolate chip cookies (standard size): These are the MVPs. They hold their shape, brown evenly, and stay soft inside. I’ve tried brands like Pillsbury, Nestlé Toll House, and Trader Joe’s—all work great at 320°F for 9 minutes.
• Sugar cookies: Light and buttery, they crisp up beautifully. Just watch the time—sugar cookies can brown fast. 8 minutes is usually perfect.
• Oatmeal raisin or walnut cookies: The oats add structure, so they don’t spread as much. They also benefit from the air fryer’s browning effect. Try 9 minutes at 320°F.
• Gluten-free frozen cookies: Surprisingly, these work well too. The denser texture holds up to the air fryer’s heat. Just make sure they’re not too thin—otherwise, they’ll dry out.

Cookies That Don’t Work as Well

Some frozen cookies just aren’t suited for the air fryer. Here’s what to avoid—or adjust:

• Extra-large or thick cookies (4+ inches): They take too long to cook through, and the outside burns before the center thaws. Stick to conventional oven for these.
• Soft-baked or “chewy” varieties with high moisture content: They can turn rubbery or soggy. The air fryer’s intense heat dries them out too quickly.
• Frozen cookie dough balls (unbaked): If the dough isn’t pre-baked (like some gourmet brands), the texture won’t develop properly. The outside may burn while the inside stays raw.
• Cookies with delicate toppings (e.g., icing, sprinkles): The airflow can blow off or melt delicate decorations. Bake these in the oven for best results.

Brand-Specific Tips

I’ve tested several popular brands, and here’s what I found:

• Pillsbury Ready-to-Bake: 320°F for 8–9 minutes. Perfect every time.
• Trader Joe’s Frozen Cookies: Slightly thicker, so 9–10 minutes. Delicious!
• Nestlé Toll House: Works well, but watch for over-browning. 8 minutes is ideal.
• Store brands (e.g., Kroger, Great Value): Hit or miss. Some are too soft; others work fine. Always check the thickness first.

Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Mistake #1: Cooking at the Oven Temperature

This is the #1 error I see. People assume “if it works in the oven, it works in the air fryer.” But the air fryer is more intense. Cooking frozen cookies at 350°F or higher leads to burnt edges and raw centers.

Solution: Always reduce the temperature to 320°F. This gives the center time to thaw and cook without the outside turning into charcoal.

Mistake #2: Overcrowding the Basket

Trying to bake too many cookies at once is tempting, especially when you’re hungry. But crowding blocks airflow, traps steam, and leads to uneven baking.

Solution: Follow the 1-inch rule. If you only have room for 4 cookies, bake in two batches. It takes an extra 10 minutes, but the results are worth it.

Mistake #3: Not Preheating

Skipping preheat might save a few minutes, but it leads to inconsistent results. The first batch might be undercooked; the second batch might overcook as the air fryer finally hits the right temp.

Solution: Preheat for 3–5 minutes at 320°F. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Mistake #4: Pulling Them Out Too Early (or Too Late)

Timing is everything. Remove the cookies too early, and they’ll be raw. Too late, and they’ll be dry or burnt.

Solution: Use a timer, but also trust your eyes. Look for light golden edges and a slightly underdone center. Remember: cookies continue cooking after you take them out.

Mistake #5: Not Letting Them Rest

We’ve all been there—grabbing a hot cookie and burning our fingers (and mouths). But rushing leads to crumbling and disappointment.

Solution: Let them cool for 2–3 minutes. Use a spatula to lift them gently. They’ll firm up and taste even better.

Data Table: Recommended Air Fryer Settings for Frozen Cookies

Cookie Type	Size	Air Fryer Temp	Bake Time	Notes
Chocolate Chip	2–2.5 inches	320°F	8–9 minutes	Best for gooey centers; pull at 8 min
Sugar Cookies	2 inches	320°F	8 minutes	Watch for browning; may need 7 min
Oatmeal Raisin	2.5 inches	320°F	9 minutes	Holds shape well; great texture
Gluten-Free	2 inches	320°F	8–9 minutes	Check for dryness; avoid overbaking
Peanut Butter	2 inches	320°F	9 minutes	Rich flavor; may brown faster
Fudge Brownie Cookies	2 inches	320°F	8 minutes	Very gooey; best pulled early

These settings are based on my testing with a 5.8-quart Ninja Air Fryer. Your results may vary slightly depending on your model, so always do a test batch first. And remember: when in doubt, go shorter on time. You can always add more minutes, but you can’t un-burn a cookie.

Final Thoughts: Should You Bake Frozen Cookies in an Air Fryer?

So, can you bake frozen cookies in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s faster, more energy-efficient, and often produces better results than a conventional oven, especially for small batches. No preheating. No waiting. Just warm, fresh cookies in under 15 minutes from frozen.

But it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it solution. You need to adjust the temperature (320°F is your friend), respect the spacing, and watch the clock. It’s not magic—but with a little practice, it feels like it.

I’ve used this method for everything from midnight cravings to last-minute dessert emergencies. My kids love when I make “air fryer cookies,” and my friends are always impressed when I serve warm cookies at gatherings—no oven required.

That said, it’s not perfect for every type of frozen cookie. If you’re making a giant batch, or if the cookies have delicate decorations, the oven might still be the better choice. But for everyday baking, the air fryer is a game-changer.

So go ahead—grab that bag of frozen cookies from the freezer, fire up your air fryer, and give it a try. With the right settings and a little patience, you’ll have warm, delicious cookies faster than you can say “chocolate chip.” And the best part? You’ll never have to wait for the oven to preheat again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake frozen cookies in an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake frozen cookies in an air fryer. The hot, circulating air cooks them evenly, often yielding a crisp exterior and soft center in less time than an oven.

How do I bake frozen cookies in an air fryer without burning them?

Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C), place frozen cookies in a single layer with space between them, and cook for 8–12 minutes, checking halfway. Adjust time based on your air fryer model and cookie thickness.

Do I need to thaw frozen cookies before air frying?

No, you can cook frozen cookies directly from frozen—no thawing needed. This saves time and helps maintain their shape during cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftover air-fried frozen cookies?

Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them again in a freezer-safe bag.

Can I use parchment paper or silicone liners when baking frozen cookies in an air fryer?

Yes, using air fryer-safe parchment paper or silicone liners prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Just ensure they don’t block airflow or come into contact with heating elements.

How long does it take to bake frozen cookies in an air fryer?

Most frozen cookies take 8–12 minutes at 320°F (160°C) in an air fryer. Thicker or larger cookies may need an extra minute or two, so monitor closely.