If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-make dessert that’s guaranteed to impress your friends and family, look no further than air fried Oreos. This sweet treat is a healthier twist on the deep-fried Oreos you may have tried at fairs or carnivals. With just a few ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these crispy, gooey delights in no time.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Air Fryer Oreos, including a version using pancake mix. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, you’ll find that making air fried Oreos is simple, fun, and totally satisfying.
What You’ll Need to Make Air Fried Oreos
Before starting the recipe, make sure to collect all the necessary ingredients:
- A package of Oreos (or your favorite flavored Oreos)
- Pancake mix (a popular choice for the coating)
- Water or milk (depending on your pancake mix instructions)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Non-stick cooking spray (optional but recommended)
And of course, you’ll need an air fryer. If you don’t have one yet, it’s a versatile kitchen tool that makes everything from crispy fries to perfectly cooked vegetables with little to no oil. It’s a game-changer for guilt-free snacking.
Why Air Fried Oreos?
You might be wondering why you should choose air fried Oreos over the traditional deep-fried version. The answer is simple: air fryers provide a healthier option with less oil and fewer calories, but with all the flavor and crunch of deep-fried treats. Plus, cleanup is much easier without all that hot oil splatter!
Air frying also saves time. No need to heat up large amounts of oil, and you don’t have to worry about the hassle of deep frying. The air fryer creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and warm—perfect for biting into an Oreo that’s coated in delicious batter.
How to Make Air Fried Oreos
Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Mix
Start by preparing the pancake mix. Most pancake mix instructions call for a combination of water or milk. Follow the package directions to mix it into a smooth, thick batter. You want a consistency that will coat the Oreos well without being too runny. If you prefer a slightly sweeter batter, feel free to add a teaspoon of sugar or vanilla extract.
Step 2: Dip the Oreos
Once your pancake batter is ready, it’s time to dip the Oreos. One at a time, fully submerge each Oreo in the batter. Make sure it’s coated evenly, so every bite has a soft, fluffy outside with that iconic Oreo crunch on the inside.
Step 3: Air Fry the Oreos
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for 3 to 5 minutes. If your model doesn’t need preheating, you can move on to the next step. Next, spray the air fryer basket lightly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the batter-covered Oreos in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. You want a little space between each one to ensure they cook evenly.
Air fry the Oreos for 4-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. Keep an eye on them as every air fryer cooks a little differently. You’re aiming for a golden-brown color on the outside.
Step 4: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once your air fried Oreos are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Then, dust them generously with powdered sugar for that classic, carnival-worthy touch. Now, they’re ready to enjoy!
Air Fried Oreos with Pancake Mix
Using pancake mix is one of the easiest ways to coat your Oreos, but you can also experiment with other batters, like cake mix or waffle mix. Pancake mix offers a light and fluffy exterior, while allowing the Oreo to stay slightly crisp inside. This balance of textures makes for a truly satisfying snack.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Oreos
- Use room temperature Oreos: Cold Oreos can cause the batter to clump and not stick properly. For even coating, make sure your Oreos are at room temperature.
- Work quickly: Once the batter is mixed, you’ll want to coat and air fry the Oreos quickly. Letting the batter sit too long can cause it to thicken too much, making it harder to coat the Oreos evenly.
- Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different Oreo flavors like Mint, Birthday Cake, or Peanut Butter for a fun twist.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Make sure the Oreos have space in the air fryer so they crisp up nicely. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Healthier and Just as Delicious!
One of the best things about using an air fryer is that you can enjoy indulgent treats like air fried Oreos with less guilt. Traditional deep-frying requires cups of oil, which adds unnecessary fat and calories. With an air fryer, you can achieve that delicious crispiness with just a spritz of non-stick spray or a tablespoon of oil.
This method also reduces the mess and hassle that comes with traditional frying. No large pots of oil, no splattering, and no oily aftertaste—just delicious, warm Air Fryer Oreos with a light, crispy batter.
Why You Should Try Air Fried Oreos Today
Air fried Oreos are the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a treat for movie night, or just craving something sweet, this quick and easy recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with your air fryer beyond just savory dishes.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a batch of delicious Air Fryer Oreos in under 10 minutes. The best part? You can indulge in this sweet treat without feeling weighed down by all the oil used in traditional frying methods.
So go ahead—grab your Oreos, mix up that pancake mix, and fire up your air fryer! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a fun, tasty dessert that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
Air fried Oreos are proof that you don’t need a deep fryer to enjoy crispy, indulgent snacks. The air fryer makes it possible to recreate this classic fair food at home, with less oil and hassle. Try them out with different Oreo flavors, play around with toppings like chocolate drizzle or whipped cream, and most importantly—have fun in the kitchen!
Air Fryer Oreos are not only a fun treat but also a great way to show off your air frying skills to family and friends. Enjoy!
