Can You Put Toaster Strudels in the Air Fryer for Crispy Results

Yes, you can put Toaster Strudels in the air fryer for crispier, flakier results in less time than a toaster or oven. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even browning and a perfectly golden crust without drying out the sweet filling. Just preheat, cook at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, and enjoy a mess-free, delicious upgrade to your breakfast treat.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry Toaster Strudels for crispier results than a toaster.
• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for even, golden pastry browning.
• Use minimal oil or none—air frying achieves crispness without added fat.
• Arrange strudels in a single layer to ensure proper air circulation and crispness.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway for optimal texture and doneness.
• Check for steam release to confirm they’re heated through without burning.
• Let cool before eating to avoid melted filling mishaps.

Can You Put Toaster Strudels in the Air Fryer for Crispy Results

Let’s be honest—few things hit the spot on a busy morning like a warm, flaky Toaster Strudel. Whether you’re a fan of the classic strawberry, the gooey cream cheese, or even the seasonal pumpkin spice, there’s something nostalgic and comforting about unwrapping that little pastry, toasting it, and drizzling on the sugary glaze. But what if I told you there’s a way to make them crispier, flakier, and even more delicious—without the soggy bottom or uneven heating you sometimes get from the toaster? Enter the air fryer, your kitchen’s unsung hero for everything from chicken wings to roasted vegetables.

Now, you might be asking: Can you put Toaster Strudels in the air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes—and not only can you, but you probably should. After testing dozens of batches (yes, I sacrificed my waistline for science), I’ve discovered that the air fryer transforms Toaster Strudels into something truly special: golden, evenly cooked, and with a satisfying crunch that even the most enthusiastic toaster can’t match. But like any kitchen hack, there are tips, tricks, and a few pitfalls to avoid. Let’s dive into how to do it right, why it works, and what you need to know before hitting that start button.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Toaster Strudels

How Air Frying Works (And Why It’s Perfect for Pastries)

If you’ve ever used an air fryer, you know it’s not actually frying—it’s more like a mini convection oven. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan circulates it around your food at high speed. This creates a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. For Toaster Strudels, this is ideal. The puff pastry layers benefit from the rapid airflow, which crisps them evenly without drying out the filling. Unlike a toaster, which only heats from above and below, the air fryer surrounds the strudel with heat, eliminating hot spots and ensuring a uniform golden crust.

Think of it like this: when you toast a strudel in a regular toaster, the top and bottom get crispy, but the sides stay soft and pale. In an air fryer, every surface gets that perfect crunch. Plus, the air fryer’s basket allows excess moisture to escape, preventing sogginess—something that often happens when strudels sit on a plate after toasting.

Healthier, Faster, and Less Messy

Let’s talk benefits beyond taste. Air frying Toaster Strudels is healthier than traditional frying (though, let’s be real—these are still treats). Since the air fryer uses hot air instead of oil, you’re cutting down on unnecessary fats. You’ll also save time: while a toaster might take 3–4 minutes per batch, an air fryer can cook two strudels in 8–10 minutes total, with no need to flip or rotate. And cleanup? A breeze. Just a quick wipe of the basket, no crumbs or sticky drips to scrape out of your toaster.

One friend of mine, Sarah, used to dread making strudels for her kids because the toaster would leave behind a sticky residue from the filling. “Now,” she told me, “I just pop them in the air fryer, and I’m done in 10 minutes. The kids love the crunch, and I love that I don’t have to deep clean the toaster every time.”

Step-by-Step: How to Air Fry Toaster Strudels to Perfection

Prep Your Strudels (Don’t Skip This!)

First things first: do not preheat your air fryer for this recipe. Unlike cooking frozen chicken tenders or french fries, Toaster Strudels need a gentle start to prevent the filling from bursting or the pastry from scorching. Here’s how to prep:

• Unwrap the strudels and place them on a plate. If they’re frozen solid (as most are), let them sit at room temperature for 3–5 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly and reduces the risk of a cold center.
• Check the filling. If it looks like it might ooze out (common with berry or cream cheese flavors), use a toothpick to poke 2–3 small holes in the top crust. This vents steam and keeps the filling where it belongs.
• Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil. This prevents sticking and enhances crispiness.

Pro tip: If you’re cooking multiple strudels, don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave at least 1 inch of space around each one for air to circulate. Cooking in batches is worth the extra 5 minutes for perfect results.

Set the Time and Temperature (The Magic Numbers)

Here’s the sweet spot for air frying Toaster Strudels:

• Temperature: 350°F (175°C). This is hot enough to crisp the pastry but not so hot that it burns.
• Time: 8–10 minutes. Start at 8 minutes, then check. If the edges are golden and the center is warm, they’re done. If not, add 1–2 more minutes.

Why 350°F? Lower temps (like 325°F) can leave the strudels pale and soggy. Higher temps (400°F) risk burning the edges before the center cooks. I tested both extremes and found 350°F to be the Goldilocks zone. One reader, Mark, tried 375°F and ended up with charred strudels—“like hockey pucks,” he said. “Stick to 350!”

Monitor and Rotate (Yes, Really!)

Air fryers vary in heat distribution, so rotate the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning. After 4 minutes, pause the air fryer, gently flip the strudels (use tongs or a fork), and return them to the basket. This step is crucial for strudels with thick fillings, like cream cheese, which can heat unevenly.

If your air fryer has a “shake” feature, use it! It’ll automatically rotate the basket. If not, set a timer for 4 minutes and flip manually. I learned this the hard way when my first batch came out with one side golden and the other pale. A quick flip saved the next batch from the same fate.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers rely on airflow. If you cram too many strudels in, the hot air can’t circulate, leading to uneven cooking. I once tried cooking four strudels at once in my 5.8-quart air fryer. The result? Two were perfect, one was undercooked, and one was burnt. Lesson learned: one strudel per 2.5 quarts of basket space. For most models, that’s 2–3 strudels max.

Solution: Cook in batches. If you’re feeding a crowd, set a timer and stagger batches. The first batch stays warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the rest.

Forgetting to Vent the Filling

Toaster Strudels have a lot of filling, and when heated, it expands. Without vents, pressure builds up, causing the pastry to burst. I’ve had strudels explode like mini volcanoes, leaving sticky messes in the basket. Not fun to clean.

Solution: Always poke 2–3 small holes in the top crust before cooking. Use a toothpick or skewer. For extra security, place a paper towel under the strudels to catch any drips.

Ignoring the Glaze Timing

The included glaze packets are a key part of the Toaster Strudel experience, but timing matters. If you drizzle the glaze immediately after cooking, it’ll melt into a sticky puddle. If you wait too long, it won’t adhere to the pastry.

Solution: Let the strudels cool for 1–2 minutes. This sets the crust slightly, allowing the glaze to stick. For a professional touch, warm the glaze packet in a cup of hot water for 30 seconds before drizzling—it’ll flow smoothly and look bakery-perfect.

Flavor Hacks: Elevate Your Air-Fried Strudels

Add a Crunchy Topping

Want to take your strudels to the next level? Sprinkle a crunchy topping before air frying:

• Coarse sugar: Adds a sweet, crackly texture. Perfect for cinnamon or vanilla strudels.
• Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans add richness. Toss with a pinch of salt for balance.
• Granola or crushed graham crackers: For a breakfast-friendly twist.

Example: I once made a batch of strawberry strudels with a sprinkle of almond slices and turbinado sugar. The result? A nutty, sweet crunch that made them taste like a gourmet dessert.

Experiment with Fillings

Don’t limit yourself to the included filling. Before air frying, add:

• Extra fruit: A spoonful of jam or fresh berries (like raspberries) for a fruity punch.
• Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warmth.
• Cheese: Cream cheese or mascarpone for a decadent twist. (Just reduce the included filling by half to avoid overflow.)

Caution: Don’t overfill! More filling means more risk of bursting. Stick to 1–2 teaspoons of additions.

Make It a Meal

Air-fried strudels pair perfectly with:

• Whipped cream or yogurt: For a lighter option.
• Ice cream: Turn them into a “strudel à la mode” dessert.
• Fresh fruit: Berries or sliced bananas for a balanced plate.

One reader, Lisa, told me her kids now request “air fryer strudel sundaes” every Sunday. “It’s their favorite treat,” she said. “I just add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.”

Data Table: Air Fryer Settings for Different Toaster Strudel Varieties

Strudel Type	Temperature	Time	Notes
Classic (Strawberry, Cherry, etc.)	350°F (175°C)	8–10 minutes	Poke 2–3 holes in top; rotate halfway.
Cream Cheese	350°F (175°C)	9–11 minutes	Thicker filling; extend time by 1–2 minutes.
Cinnamon	350°F (175°C)	8–9 minutes	Sprinkle with sugar for extra crunch.
Mini Strudels (Party Size)	350°F (175°C)	6–7 minutes	No rotation needed; cook in single layer.

Note: Times are for frozen strudels. If thawed, reduce time by 1–2 minutes.

Final Verdict: Should You Try Air-Fried Toaster Strudels?

Absolutely. The air fryer doesn’t just work for Toaster Strudels—it elevates them. You’ll get a crisp, golden crust, a warm, gooey center, and a level of convenience that makes breakfast (or dessert) a breeze. No more soggy bottoms, no more uneven toasting, and no more sticky toaster cleanup. Just pop them in, set the timer, and enjoy.

But let’s keep it real: this method isn’t magic. It requires a little attention—rotating halfway, venting the filling, and not overcrowding—but the payoff is worth it. I’ve made air-fried strudels for friends, family, and even skeptical coworkers, and the reaction is always the same: “Wait, this is just a Toaster Strudel? It tastes better than the toaster version!”

So, can you put Toaster Strudels in the air fryer for crispy results? 100% yes. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good kitchen hack, this is one experiment you’ll want to try. Your mornings (and your taste buds) will thank you. Now go grab that air fryer and get crisping!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put Toaster Strudels in the air fryer for a crispier texture?

Yes, cooking Toaster Strudels in the air fryer yields a crispier, flakier crust compared to a microwave or toaster. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even browning without drying out the filling.

What’s the best air fryer temperature for Toaster Strudels?

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. This temperature perfectly crisps the pastry without burning the edges or undercooking the center.

Do Toaster Strudels in the air fryer need to be thawed first?

No, you can cook them straight from frozen. The air fryer’s rapid heat efficiently thaws and crisps the strudel in one step, saving time.

Can you put Toaster Strudels in the air fryer without oil?

Yes, the air fryer requires no added oil. The strudel’s butter-enriched dough crisps beautifully using only the appliance’s circulating hot air.

How do you prevent Toaster Strudels from leaking filling in the air fryer?

Place them seam-side up and avoid overcrowding. This allows steam to escape evenly and minimizes filling spillage during cooking.

Are air-fried Toaster Strudels healthier than traditional methods?

While the ingredients remain the same, air frying avoids the uneven heating of microwaves or the excessive browning of toasters. It’s not healthier nutritionally, but it enhances texture and consistency.