Cookies in an air fryer? Yes, it’s a thing! This recipe is fast, fun, and foolproof. Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and ready in just minutes.
Easy Air Fryer Cookies Recipe: Quick, Crispy, and Delicious
Who says baking cookies needs an oven? With an air fryer, you can whip up delicious, crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside cookies in no time. This easy air fryer cookie recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the hassle of preheating an oven. Plus, it’s customizable with simple ingredient substitutions for readers in the US, UK, and Malaysia!
Why Make Cookies in an Air Fryer?
- Quick and Convenient: No need to preheat a bulky oven. Your air fryer heats up fast and cooks evenly.
- Energy Efficient: Perfect for small batches, saving time and energy.
- Crispy and Chewy Texture: Get the best of both worlds with crispy edges and a soft center.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits!
Ingredients and Substitutes
| Ingredient | US Measurement | UK Metric | Suggestions/Substitutes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | 120 g | Plain flour, or whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ½ cup | 115 g | Salted butter (omit added salt), margarine, or coconut oil |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | 100 g | White sugar, coconut sugar, or gula Melaka (finely grated) |
| White sugar | ¼ cup | 50 g | Caster sugar or palm sugar |
| Egg | 1 large | 1 large | Vegan egg substitute (flax egg, 1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 1 tsp | Vanilla essence or almond extract |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp | ½ tsp | Baking powder |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | ¼ tsp | Omit if using salted butter |
| Chocolate chips | ½ cup | 75 g | Chopped dark chocolate, white chocolate, or nuts |
How to Make Air Fryer Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt, then combine until a dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate chips or your favorite mix-ins.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough and flatten slightly. Place the dough balls on parchment paper to prevent sticking in the air fryer basket.
Step 3: Preheat and Cook
- Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (325°F).
- Arrange the cookies in a single layer, leaving space for spreading.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool in the basket for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for later!
Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes to prevent over-spreading.
- Batch Cooking: Cook in small batches for even baking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Experiment: Add nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles to customize your cookies.
FAQs
1. Can I use a convection oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes! Bake the cookies at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes until golden.
2. Do I need parchment paper?
Yes, parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Make sure it’s air fryer-safe.
3. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce and use plant-based butter.
4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, shape the dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Suggestions and Variations
- For Healthier Cookies: Replace half the flour with oat flour for added fiber. Use coconut sugar or stevia for a lower glycemic option.
- Fun Flavors: Add ½ tsp cinnamon for a spiced cookie or mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with a glass of cold milk, hot chocolate, or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Kid-Friendly Activity: Let kids decorate the cookies with sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
With this simple air fryer cookie recipe, dessert just got easier! Whether you’re in the US, UK, or Malaysia, these cookies are customizable, quick, and perfect for any occasion. Happy air frying! 🍪✨