professional kitchen with a commercial air fryer baking a golden cake, surrounded by chefs preparing ingredients on stainless steel counters

February 13, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

Can You Bake in an Air Fryer? The Answer is Here

Can you bake in an air fryer? Absolutely! From cakes to muffins, a commercial air fryer can work baking magic—crispy edges, soft centres, and way less wait time. Want perfect air fryer pastries without kitchen chaos? Stick around for tips, tricks, and the best air fryer baking secrets!

Air Fryer Baking: A Viable Option

Baking in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s a total game-changer. Instead of heating up your whole kitchen, the air fryer uses rapid air circulation to bake treats with a crispy finish and a soft, fluffy inside. It’s perfect for small-batch baking, cutting down on time without sacrificing flavour.

If you have a commercial air fryer, even better. You get more space, precise temperature control, and the ability to bake multiple items at once. Whether you're whipping up a quick batch of cookies or testing out a new bread recipe, the air fryer makes baking easier, faster, and just as delicious.

vibrant, colourful kitchen with golden brown muffins baking inside a commercial air fryer, surrounded by bright decor and fresh ingredients

What Can You Bake in an Air Fryer?

There are endless possibilities when it comes to baking in an air fryer. Here are some of the best treats to try:

Cakes and cupcakes that turn out golden and moist.
Muffins and scones that bake up light and fluffy.
Cookies with that perfect balance of chewy and crisp.
Bread and rolls that rise beautifully and stay soft.
Pastries with a flaky, buttery texture that rivals bakery-made ones.

While most recipes work well, some require adjustments. Large cakes or delicate desserts needing precise moisture control might not turn out as expected. Stick to recipes that fit the air fryer’s strengths, and you’ll have bakery-level results in no time.

professional kitchen showcasing a side-by-side comparison of baking times, with a commercial air fryer displaying a shorter timer than a conventional oven, emphasizing faster cooking efficiency

Tips for Baking in an Air Fryer

Smaller Portions

Air fryers aren’t as spacious as ovens, so think small. Instead of a full cake, try making cupcakes, mini loaves, or even individual-sized desserts. Keeping portions smaller ensures even cooking and the best texture. If you’re using racks, rotate them halfway through to get an even bake on everything.

Faster Cooking Times

Air fryers work fast. What takes 30 minutes in an oven might only need 15 or 20 minutes in an air fryer. Lower the temperature slightly and check your treats often to avoid overbaking. A simple toothpick test is your best friend—if it comes out clean, your baked goods are ready.

Baking in an air fryer is all about experimenting. Try new recipes, adjust times as needed, and before long, you’ll be turning out perfect baked treats with ease. So go ahead—ditch the oven for a day and see what your air fryer can do!