Can You Dehydrate Food in an Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can dehydrate food in an air fryer—many models offer a dedicated dehydrate function or low-temperature settings ideal for drying fruits, vegetables, and even jerky. This space-saving method delivers crispy, nutrient-rich snacks faster than traditional dehydrators, making it a versatile kitchen hack for healthy eaters and meal preppers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can dehydrate food in an air fryer using low temps and long cooking times.
• Use the lowest temperature setting (90–170°F) to preserve nutrients and avoid cooking.
• Slice food thinly and evenly for consistent dehydration and faster results.
• Rotate trays or flip food halfway through for even drying and airflow.
• Check your air fryer manual for dehydration settings or compatible accessories.
• Store dehydrated food properly in airtight containers to maintain freshness and crispness.

Can You Dehydrate Food in an Air Fryer? Discover How

Imagine this: You’ve got a bumper crop of tomatoes from your garden, or you scored a great deal on bananas at the farmers’ market. You’d love to preserve them for later, but you don’t have a dehydrator. Then it hits you—can you dehydrate food in an air fryer? It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once, especially after spending a weekend slicing apples and realizing my countertop dehydrator was already full.

Turns out, you’re not alone. With air fryers becoming kitchen staples—over 30 million sold in the U.S. in the last five years alone—people are getting creative with their uses. From crispy kale chips to “fries” with less oil, air fryers promise convenience and versatility. But can they double as dehydrators? After testing, researching, and even burning a batch of zucchini slices (oops), I’ve got answers. Spoiler: Yes, you *can* dehydrate in an air fryer—but it’s not quite as simple as pressing a “dehydrate” button.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why They *Can* Dehydrate)

The Science of Dehydration

Dehydration is all about removing moisture from food slowly and evenly. Traditional dehydrators use a heating element and a fan to circulate warm air (usually between 95°F and 165°F) over several hours. This process preserves nutrients, concentrates flavor, and extends shelf life.

Air fryers work similarly—but with a twist. They use rapid air circulation to create a convection effect, cooking food quickly by surrounding it with hot air. Most models operate between 175°F and 400°F, which is *much* hotter than ideal for dehydration. That’s the first hurdle: you’ll need to keep the temperature low to avoid cooking or burning your food instead of drying it.

Air Fryer Design: Pros and Cons for Dehydrating

Let’s break down what makes air fryers both promising and tricky for dehydration:

• Pros:
  • Fan-driven airflow mimics dehydrator airflow (though faster).
  • Compact size fits small batches—perfect for herbs or snacks.
  • No extra equipment needed if you already own one.
• Cons:
  • High minimum temps (many start at 175°F) can cook food instead of drying it.
  • Small baskets mean limited capacity compared to full-sized dehydrators.
  • No dedicated dehydrate setting on most models (though some newer ones have it).
  • Uneven drying due to rapid air movement, requiring frequent tray rotation.

Real talk: I tried dehydrating strawberries in my 5.8-quart air fryer. The top layer turned into crispy chips, while the bottom layer was still moist. Lesson learned: patience and rotation are key.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dehydrating in an Air Fryer

Choosing the Right Air Fryer (If You’re Buying One)

Not all air fryers are created equal for dehydration. Look for:

• Temperature range starting at 90°F–100°F (some models like the Ninja Foodi or Cosori have this).
• Dehydrate function (e.g., Instant Vortex Plus, Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer).
• Removable racks or trays to layer food.
• Large basket capacity (6+ quarts) for better airflow.

Tip: If your air fryer’s lowest temp is 175°F, you *can* still dehydrate—but only for foods that tolerate higher heat (like herbs or citrus zest). For fruits/veggies, you’ll need to use tricks (more on that later).

Prepping Your Food

Preparation matters more in an air fryer than a dehydrator. Here’s how to do it right:

• Slice thinly and evenly (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick). Uneven slices = uneven drying.
• Blanch veggies first (e.g., carrots, green beans) to preserve color and texture.
• Pre-treat fruits to prevent browning:
  • Soak apple slices in lemon juice (1 tbsp per cup of water) for 5 minutes.
  • Dip bananas in pineapple juice to slow oxidation.
• Pat food dry with a paper towel before placing it in the basket.

My mistake: I skipped blanching my carrots. They turned dark and chewy—not the tender texture I wanted.

Setting the Temperature and Time

This is where most people go wrong. Here’s a general guide:

• Herbs (parsley, basil, thyme): 100°F–125°F for 1–2 hours.
• Citrus zest or peels: 175°F for 30–45 minutes (high temp works here!).
• Fruits (apples, bananas, strawberries): 135°F–145°F for 4–6 hours. If your air fryer’s lowest temp is 175°F, use “pulse drying”:
  • Set to 175°F.
  • Run for 15–20 minutes, then let it cool for 10 minutes. Repeat.
• Veggies (zucchini, carrots, kale): 135°F–145°F for 3–5 hours.
• Jerky (beef, turkey): 160°F–165°F for 3–4 hours (use marinade first).

Pro tip: Check food every hour. Rotate trays or flip pieces for even drying. I use silicone tongs—they don’t scratch the basket.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful prep, things can go sideways. Here’s how to fix it:

• Food is cooking, not drying? Lower the temp or use pulse drying. Move food to the outer edges of the basket (cooler spots).
• Uneven drying? Rotate trays every 30–60 minutes. Use a mesh liner (like parchment paper with holes punched in) to prevent small pieces from falling through.
• Smoke or burning? Wipe the basket between batches. Some foods (like sugary fruits) caramelize easily.
• Food is too chewy? It’s not dry enough. Extend time in 30-minute increments.

Foods You Can (and Can’t) Dehydrate in an Air Fryer

Best Foods for Air Fryer Dehydration

These foods work well due to their structure and moisture content:

• Herbs: Basil, rosemary, and oregano dry beautifully at low temps. Store in glass jars for 6+ months.
• Citrus peels: Perfect for homemade potpourri or tea. Zest first, then dehydrate the peel at 175°F.
• Fruit chips: Apples, pears, and bananas. Slice thin and pre-treat to avoid browning.
• Kale or spinach: Crisp into chips. Massage with a little oil before drying.
• Jerky: Use lean meat, marinate, and dehydrate at 160°F. Warning: Check internal temp with a meat thermometer (160°F for beef, 165°F for poultry).

My favorite: I made lemon zest for baking. It dried in 40 minutes at 175°F and smelled incredible!

Foods to Avoid (or Handle with Care)

Some foods are too high-risk or low-reward in an air fryer:

• High-moisture fruits: Watermelon, pineapple, and mango take too long and often cook instead of dry.
• Leafy greens (except kale/spinach): Delicate herbs like cilantro wilt or burn.
• Dairy or eggs: Never dehydrate these—they can spoil or harbor bacteria.
• Large cuts of meat: Thin strips work for jerky, but roasts or chops are unsafe.
• Starchy foods: Potatoes or sweet potatoes often turn gummy unless sliced *very* thin.

Lesson learned: I tried dehydrating watermelon “leather.” After 3 hours at 175°F, it was a sticky, caramelized mess. Stick to a dehydrator for high-moisture foods.

Creative Ideas and Recipes

Get playful! Here are some fun uses:

• Vegetable powder: Dehydrate carrots, beets, or spinach. Grind into powder to add to soups or smoothies.
• Fruit roll-ups: Puree dehydrated strawberries and apples, then spread on parchment to re-dry.
• Spice blends: Dry garlic, onion, or chili peppers. Grind into custom seasoning.
• Pet treats: Dehydrate chicken or liver for dogs (skip salt/sugar).

My win: I made beet powder by dehydrating thin slices at 135°F for 5 hours. It turned my morning smoothie a vibrant pink!

Air Fryer vs. Dehydrator: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Let’s settle the debate: Is an air fryer a good substitute for a dehydrator?

Feature	Air Fryer	Dehydrator
Temperature Range	175°F–400°F (some models 90°F–400°F)	95°F–165°F (precise, low-heat)
Capacity	Small (2–6 quarts)	Large (5+ trays, 1 sq ft+)
Airflow	Rapid, vertical circulation	Slow, horizontal circulation
Even Drying	Requires rotation	More consistent (with tray rotation)
Cost	$50–$150	$50–$300
Best For	Small batches, herbs, fruit chips, jerky	Large batches, leathers, high-moisture foods

The takeaway: An air fryer is a convenient backup for small-scale dehydration. But if you’re preserving a garden harvest or making fruit leather weekly, invest in a dehydrator. I use both: my air fryer for quick projects, my dehydrator for bulk.

Tips for Success and Storage

Maximizing Efficiency

• Work in batches: Don’t overload the basket. Leave space for airflow.
• Use parchment paper or silicone mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Preheat the air fryer: Helps maintain consistent temps. Run empty for 5 minutes at your target temp.
• Label and date: Use masking tape and a marker on storage containers.

Storing Dehydrated Food

Proper storage prevents spoilage and preserves flavor:

• Cool completely before storing (warm food traps moisture).
• Use airtight containers: Glass jars, vacuum-sealed bags, or resealable plastic.
• Add oxygen absorbers for long-term storage (e.g., jerky, powders).
• Store in a cool, dark place: Heat and light degrade nutrients.
• Check for moisture: If condensation forms, re-dehydrate for 30 minutes.

Shelf life:

• Herbs: 6–12 months
• Fruits/veggies: 6–12 months
• Jerky: 1–2 months (refrigerate for longer)

My hack: I reuse glass pasta sauce jars. They’re airtight, see-through, and eco-friendly!

Final Thoughts: Should You Dehydrate in Your Air Fryer?

So, can you dehydrate food in an air fryer? Absolutely—but with caveats. It’s a great option for:

• Small batches of herbs, fruit chips, or jerky.
• Quick projects when you’re short on time (or dehydrator space).
• Creative uses like citrus zest or veggie powders.

But it’s not ideal for:

• Large-scale preservation (e.g., 20 pounds of tomatoes).
• High-moisture foods like watermelon or pineapple.
• Foods that need ultra-low temps (e.g., raw food diets).

After months of experimenting, I’ve made peace with my air fryer’s limitations. It’s not a dehydrator, but it’s a versatile tool that’s earned its spot in my kitchen. Whether you’re preserving garden surplus, making snacks, or just curious, give it a try. Start with herbs or lemon zest—you’ll be surprised how easy it is. And when you nail that perfect batch of apple chips? Share them with a friend. Because good food—and good tips—are always better when shared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you dehydrate food in an air fryer?

Yes, many modern air fryers can dehydrate food, especially those with a dedicated dehydrate function or low-temperature settings (90°F–170°F). This feature circulates warm air to slowly remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, or meats without overcooking.

What foods work best for dehydrating in an air fryer?

Fruits like apples, bananas, and mangoes, as well as vegetables such as carrots and zucchini, dehydrate well in an air fryer. You can also make beef jerky or dried herbs if your air fryer maintains a consistent low temperature.

How long does it take to dehydrate food in an air fryer?

Dehydrating times vary by food type and thickness, typically ranging from 2 to 8 hours. Thinly sliced fruits may take 2–4 hours, while denser items like jerky can require 6–8 hours at the lowest temperature setting.

Do all air fryers have a dehydrate setting?

Not all air fryers can dehydrate food—only models with a dehydrate function or adjustable temperature down to 90°F–100°F. Check your user manual or product specs to confirm if your air fryer supports dehydrating.

Is dehydrating food in an air fryer as effective as a dehydrator?

Air fryers can dehydrate food effectively but may have smaller capacity and less even airflow than dedicated dehydrators. For occasional use or small batches, an air fryer works well, but frequent users might prefer a traditional dehydrator.

Can you dehydrate food in an air fryer without special equipment?

Yes, you can dehydrate food in an air fryer using only the basket or racks—no extra tools needed. Just slice food thinly, arrange it in a single layer, and use the lowest temperature setting for slow moisture removal.