Is baking in an air fryer the same as baking in an oven?

Author: Dr. Lois Hane I  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 5, 2025

A good rule of thumb? Use a temperature about 25 degrees F lower than what you may might be accustomed to with a conventional oven: Baking in the air fryer is typically about 325 instead of 350 degrees F, roasting will be about 400 instead of 425 degrees, and so on.

Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven for baking?

An air fryer can be used for many cooking tasks that an oven can handle, but it has some limitations. It's suitable for baking, roasting, and even some types of frying, but its capacity is smaller than most ovens. For larger dishes or recipes that require a full-size oven, you may still need to use the oven.

Can you really bake in an air fryer?

You can bake things in an air fryer, but it won't be the same as an oven. Even though most airfryer have a bake function, it really doesn't do anything different except maybe slow the fan down a bit. This will still leave you with a dried out crust and unfinished insides though.

Is it better to bake a cake in the air fryer or oven?

Air fryers circulate hot air more efficiently, so they can cook food faster and at lower temperatures. I read several air fryer cake recipes online which suggested reducing the temperature by about 10-20 degrees from what you'd use in a conventional oven to achieve similar results.

What is the equivalent of 350 in an air fryer?

The general rule of thumb is, you'll want to reduce the cooking temperature by about 25-30 degrees Fahrenheit (15-20 degrees Celsius) when using an air fryer. For example, if a recipe calls for baking at 350°F (175°C) in the oven, set your air fryer to around 320-325°F (160-165°C).

Is an Air Fryer just a Convection Oven? Let's put it to the test.

How do you convert air frying to baking?

Oven cooking time is reduced by 20% to convert to air fryer cook time. For example, a recipe that calls for 60 minutes in the oven, can be converted to air frying time by reducing the baking time by 12 minutes (60mins x .20 = 12 minute reduction).

Why are people getting rid of air fryers?

While air fryers are popular, the most expensive models can start to get a little pricey, which could undermine their status as a budget item. Taking to social media to share their opinions, many people have revealed that they reckon halogen ovens are the best option for frugal cooking.

How to adjust baking for an air fryer?

Reduce the heat from your standard oven recipe by 25 degrees and reduce the time by 25%. You will still need to start checking for doneness about 2/3 of the way through the standard time in your original recipe and make sure protein internal temperatures are safe before removing them from the air fryer.

Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?

Foil is safe to use in an air fryer so long as you follow three basic rules: never let foil touch the heating element; make sure the foil is weighted so it doesn't blow around the basket; and avoid contact with acidic ingredients, which can cause the foil to leach onto your food.

How long does it take to bake a cake in an air fryer?

Pour the mixture into the cake tin, smooth out the top using the back of a spoon or palette knife, then put in the air-fryer for 30-45 mins or until golden, risen and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. (The time will vary depending on the make and model of your air-fryer.)

Does an air fryer just bake?

An air fryer can fry, bake and roast food using little to no oil, while a pressure cooker is made to quickly boil, steam and braise. To determine which appliance is better for you, consider your cooking needs.

Can I bake cookies in an air fryer?

I recommend using the air fryer to bake any cookie you prefer chewy or gooey in the middle. Brownie cookies, sugar cookies, chocolate chip, and their endless variations are all great. Crispy cookies like shortbread or biscotti don't do as well — they tend to burn before baking through.

Can an air fryer do everything an oven can do?

However, it's also worth noting that the air fryer is limited in its size. You can make fries or sweet potatoes for two pretty easily. But if you're looking to make more than that or meal prep a whole week of roasted vegetables, you're better off cranking up the oven for the time it will take.

Can you bake directly in an air fryer?

You can also use the air fryer to make baked goods. Baking food in the air fryer can be beneficial because you'll save time by not having to preheat the oven. It's also a good choice for people who are avoiding firing up the oven during hot summer months or if you only want to make a few cookies at a time.

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer?

Parchment paper can handle the heat inside your air fryer - up to 428°F (220°C). To get the best results, add the parchment paper to the air fryer basket at the same time as you add your ingredients. This prevents the paper from lifting up and coming into contact with the heating element while cooking.

What does an air fryer do that an oven doesn't?

Air fryers cook quicker than convection ovens and don't require heating a large appliance, like your full-sized oven. Their perforated racks also allow fat to drip onto the drip pan so your food doesn't absorb excess oil, which minimizes calories and becomes crispier since it is more dry.

What is the best thing to put on the bottom of an air fryer?

A slice of bread in the bottom of your air fryer can help collect grease without making a mess.

Is it better to use parchment paper or foil in an air fryer?

Parchment paper is good for food that might stick to the basket, like chicken wings, making clean up a bit easier. If you're tempted to use parchment every day or are simply waste-conscious, consider instead a silicone liner for air fryers.

Can you put glass in an air fryer?

Whether you prefer the benefits of cooking in glass or you just use glass dishes out of habit, we've got good news – yes! You can use glass in an air fryer.

Can you bake in an air fryer instead of an oven?

Air fryers are highly efficient and they can help you save more time in the kitchen, but keep in mind that their functionalities are slightly limited when it comes to baking, as compared to a conventional oven. However, with some tweaks and adjustments, you can still churn out delicious baked goods!

What can I not cook in an air fryer?

7 Foods You Should Never Cook In Your Air Fryer
  • Wet Batters.
  • Cheesy Items.
  • Large, Bone-In Meat Cuts.
  • Baked Goods.
  • Leafy Greens.
  • Raw Rice and Other Grains.
  • Too Much of Anything.

Why do chefs hate air fryers?

Air Fryers Reduce Taste Quality

Out of the top three reasons restaurants don't use air fryers, the taste is the leading cause. It has numerous benefits and can cook food efficiently. However, the taste can be subpar compared to other cooking methods available at the commercial level.

What is the downside of an Airfryer?

Price: Air fryers can be expensive, especially if you choose a high-end model. Dimensions: Air fryers can be bulky, so it is important to make sure you have the space to place them in your kitchen. Cooking time: In some cases, cooking time in an air fryer may be longer than in a conventional oven.

Why are air fryers banned in college?

Fire hazards are often a major concern with air fryers and so they may be prohibited from dorms unless used in the kitchen. Air fryers cook food much faster than a traditional oven or toaster, allowing college students to quickly prepare a meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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