If you’re wondering whether you can cook pancakes in an air-fryer, the answer is yes, you absolutely can! The air-fryer is a versatile kitchen gadget that can be used for much more than just frying. It’s perfect for cooking up a batch of delicious pancakes with minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings or when you want to save time and energy. Say goodbye to standing over a hot stove, flipping pancakes one by one in a frying pan. Although that can be a fun experience for kids, especially on special occasions like Pancake Day!
To make your Pancake Day as fuss-free as possible, you can follow this simple recipe. While I’ve created a classic pancake batter from scratch, if you’re in a rush or prefer convenience, you can easily substitute with a pre-made pancake mix. This means that with just a few ingredients, you can have fluffy pancakes ready in no time, without the need to worry about mixing and measuring every time.
Making pancakes in the air fryer also has the added benefit of a mess-free experience. No more greasy stovetops or splattering batter everywhere – just set the pancakes in the air fryer basket, and let the machine do the work for you. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked pancakes, golden brown and fluffy, just the way you like them.
Whether you’re preparing breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat for the family, these air fryer pancakes are a must-try. Perfect for Shrove Tuesday or any day of the week, this method will give you soft, airy pancakes with a crisp exterior, making them a delightful start to any morning!
PREP 5 minutes
COOK 5 to 6 minutes
SERVES 8 pancakes
KIT you will need an air fryer, mixing bowl and silicone moulds.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Pancakes
200g of plain flour
1 tbs of baking powder
½ tsp of salt
2 tbsp of caster sugar
2 large eggs
150ml of milk
40g of butter, melted and cooled
Olive oil spray (for greasing)
To serve:
A handful of fresh strawberries and blueberries
2 tbs of Greek yoghurt
A drizzle of honey
Method
Start by combining your dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl – add the plain flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Then, into the same bowl, crack in the eggs, pour in the milk, and add the melted butter. Use a whisk to mix everything together until a smooth, thick batter forms. Don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy – just make sure there are no dry patches of flour.
Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel or cling film and let the batter rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flour absorb the liquid and results in lighter, fluffier pancakes. If you have time, you can leave it for up to an hour.
While the batter rests, you can preheat your air fryer to 180°C, although this step is optional. Once you’re ready to cook, place four silicone moulds into the air fryer basket, spacing them apart to allow for even cooking. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of batter into each mould, depending on how thick you want your pancakes.
Cook at 180°C for around 5 to 6 minutes, or until the pancakes are golden, fluffy, and spring back when touched.
Carefully remove the silicone moulds from the basket and turn out the pancakes onto a plate. Cover them with a clean towel or foil to keep warm while you prepare the next batch. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, or store any leftover batter in the fridge for another day.
Serve the pancakes warm with your favourite toppings. I love mine with fresh strawberries, blueberries, a dollop of Greek yoghurt, and a drizzle of honey – but maple syrup, Nutella, lemon juice, or even crispy bacon are all delicious options too!
Tips for Air Fryer Pancakes
1. Use a thick batter
Air fryer pancakes work best with a slightly thicker batter than traditional ones. This helps them hold their shape and cook evenly without spreading too thin.
2. Grease your dish or liner
Use a silicone cake mould, ramekin, or parchment liner that fits your air fryer basket. Lightly grease it to prevent sticking and get golden edges.
3. Preheat if needed
Some air fryers benefit from a 2–3 minute preheat at 180°C (350°F). This helps the pancakes start cooking straight away and reduces sticking.
4. Don’t overload the batter
Fill your dish or liner no more than halfway as pancakes will rise! Overfilling can lead to undercooked centres.
5. Add-ins go last
If you’re adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or nuts, sprinkle them on top after pouring the batter. This prevents them from sinking and burning on the bottom.
6. Cook low and slow
Air fry at 160–170°C (320–340°F) for around 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. Lower heat helps cook through without burning the top.
7. Check doneness
Insert a toothpick in the centre and if it comes out clean, they’re done! If not, cook for 1–2 minutes more.
8. Batch & stack
Want more than one pancake? Make them in batches and keep warm under foil. Or stack with butter between layers!
9. Go creative with toppings
Classic maple syrup, fruit, yoghurt, or a drizzle of Nutella – anything goes!
10. Try mini pancake bites
Use a silicone muffin tray for fun, fluffy mini pancake bites. Perfect for kids or snack boxes.
Similar recipes
If you loved making these fluffy Air Fryer Pancakes without the fuss of flipping, you’ll want to check out more easy and delicious air fryer breakfast ideas. Whether you’re planning a cosy weekend brunch or just need a quick weekday treat, these recipes are simple, satisfying, and full of flavour—perfect for pairing with pancakes or enjoying on their own.
Air Fryer French Toast
Golden and crisp on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside—this classic breakfast gets an easy upgrade in the air fryer. Ideal with syrup, berries, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
Air Fryer Bacon
Perfectly crispy and mess-free, air fryer bacon is a must-have side for pancakes. It cooks evenly with no splatter and adds a salty-savoury crunch to sweet breakfasts.
Air Fryer Poached Eggs
Yes, you can poach eggs in an air fryer! Soft, runny yolks and delicate whites. Perfect for topping pancakes or pairing with toast for a balanced breakfast.
Air Fryer Omelette
Light, fluffy, and packed with your choice of fillings, this air fryer omelette is quick to make and easy to customise. Great alongside pancakes for a hearty brunch.
Air Fryer Hash Browns
Golden, crispy hash browns made from scratch or frozen, Easy, satisfying, and a perfect pairing with both sweet and savoury breakfasts.
These simple air fryer breakfasts make mornings easier and more delicious. No flipping, no frying pans, just effortless comfort food.
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