Fluffy Air Fryer Pancakes Recipe

February 28, 2025 6:33 pm by Alex

Pancakes are a beloved breakfast staple, and with the advent of air fryers, making them has never been easier or healthier! Air frying pancakes allows you to achieve that perfect fluffy texture without the need for excessive oil or butter. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple and delicious air fryer pancake recipe that will have you enjoying breakfast in no time.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

Chocolate chips
Blueberries
Sliced bananas
Nuts

Equipment Needed

Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Whisk or fork
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like chocolate chips or blueberries, fold them in gently.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your pancakes cook evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

You can either lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. If using parchment paper, make sure to cut it to fit the bottom of the basket and poke a few holes in it to allow for air circulation.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

Pour the Batter: Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter into the air fryer basket for each pancake. Leave some space between each pancake, as they will spread slightly.
Air Fry: Cook the pancakes in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a pancake; it should come out clean. If needed, you can flip the pancakes halfway through cooking for even browning.

Step 5: Serve

Once the pancakes are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pancakes

Batch Cooking: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the pancakes in batches. Keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish the rest.
Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer thicker pancakes, you can reduce the amount of milk slightly. For thinner pancakes, add a bit more milk.
Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to get creative with flavours by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in denser pancakes. You might want to add a little extra milk to achieve the desired batter consistency.

2. How do I store leftover pancakes?

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by placing parchment paper between each pancake and storing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated in the air fryer or microwave.

3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pancake batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken while sitting.

4. What temperature should I set my air fryer for pancakes?

The ideal temperature for cooking pancakes in an air fryer is 320°F (160°C). This allows the pancakes to cook evenly without burning.

5. How can I tell when the pancakes are done?

Pancakes are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick has batter on it, give the pancakes a few more minutes in the air fryer.

6. Can I add other ingredients to the batter?

Absolutely! You can customize your pancakes by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh fruit. Just fold them into the batter gently to avoid overmixing.

7. What toppings go well with air fryer pancakes?

Popular toppings for pancakes include maple syrup, honey, fresh fruit (like berries or bananas), whipped cream, or even nut butter. Get creative and mix and match to find your favourite combination!

Conclusion

Making pancakes in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic breakfast with less mess and fewer calories. With this simple recipe, you can whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes that are sure to please everyone at the table. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delightful pancake breakfast any day of the week!