Air Fryer Brownies

Introduction

Air Fryer Brownies are a quick and easy way to satisfy your chocolate cravings without the need for a conventional oven. These brownies come out fudgy, rich, and decadent, with a slightly crispy top and a soft, gooey center. Perfect for a last-minute dessert or a sweet treat any time of day, this recipe allows you to enjoy homemade brownies in a fraction of the time. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience!

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 25-28 minutes

Intensity Level

Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 8 brownies

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or nuts (optional)

Equipment Needed

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Whisk or electric mixer
6-inch round or square baking pan (must fit in your air fryer)
Parchment paper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer

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

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Allow it to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In the bowl with the melted butter, add the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk or mix with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal, if desired. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Air Fry the Brownies

Carefully place the baking pan in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook the brownies at 320°F (160°C) for 15-18 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If necessary, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove the brownies from the air fryer and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Storage

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.

Nutrition Information (per brownie)

Calories: 150
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 55mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g

Nutritional Benefits

These brownies provide a delightful treat while being easy to make. They contain simple ingredients and can be made without any artificial additives. The use of cocoa powder also provides some antioxidants, making them a slightly better indulgence.

Tips for Success

Check for Doneness: Since air fryers can vary in temperature and efficiency, it’s essential to check your brownies a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.
Customize Your Brownies: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like caramel chips, peanut butter chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella on top before cooking.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Use Quality Cocoa Powder: The quality of cocoa powder can significantly affect the flavor of your brownies. Opt for a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
Serve Warm: These brownies are delicious served warm, especially with a scoop of ice cream on top!

Conclusion

Air Fryer Brownies are a quick and delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth without the hassle of traditional baking. With their fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy these delicious brownies in no time