Just when you thought Thanksgiving couldn’t get any cozier, your air fryer is here to save the day! Imagine all those classic holiday flavors—crispy, golden, and ready in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these 28 mouthwatering recipes will make your feast unforgettable. Ready to transform your holiday cooking? Let’s dive into these delicious delights!
Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Viral-worthy turkey just got easier. This air fryer herb-roasted turkey breast delivers juicy, flavorful results in a fraction of the time—perfect for small gatherings or meal prep. Get ready for crispy skin and tender meat without the oven hassle.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 (2-3 lb) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
– 3 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice from a zesty lemon
– 4 cloves aromatic garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fragrant fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 1 tbsp earthy fresh thyme, finely chopped
– 1 tsp coarse kosher salt
– ½ tsp finely ground black pepper
– ½ tsp sweet paprika
Instructions
1. Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
3. Rub the herb mixture evenly all over the turkey breast, including under the skin for maximum flavor.
4. Let the turkey rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to take the chill off.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 3 minutes.
6. Place the turkey breast skin-side up in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not touching the sides.
7. Air fry at 360°F for 25 minutes.
8. Carefully flip the turkey breast using tongs. Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read around 130°F at this stage.
9. Increase the air fryer temperature to 380°F.
10. Continue air frying for 15-20 more minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Tip: For extra crispiness, lightly spray the skin with cooking oil halfway through this step.
11. Check that the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F using a digital meat thermometer. Tip: Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
12. Slice against the grain and serve immediately.
Kick back and enjoy that golden, crackling skin giving way to incredibly moist, herb-infused meat. The garlic and lemon brighten each bite, while the rosemary and thyme add a cozy, aromatic depth. Serve it sliced over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or shred it for next-level turkey sandwiches the next day.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Kick your Brussels sprouts game into high gear with this crispy, cheesy upgrade. Forget soggy steamed versions—these air-fryer gems deliver maximum crunch with minimal effort. You’ll want to make them on repeat.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons rich extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the extra virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Add the finely grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl.
4. Toss everything vigorously until each sprout half is fully coated with the cheese mixture.
5. Arrange the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
6. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Check for doneness by piercing a sprout with a fork—it should be tender inside with a crunchy exterior.
8. Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving plate immediately to prevent sogginess.
Now, savor those crispy edges and nutty, cheesy flavor—they’re perfect as a side dish or piled high on a grain bowl for a satisfying meal.
Air Fryer Stuffing Bites
Forget soggy leftovers—these crispy, savory bites transform classic stuffing into a crave-worthy snack. Fire up your air fryer for golden, bite-sized perfection in minutes, perfect for holiday grazing or game-day munching.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 cups of day-old rustic bread, torn into ½-inch pieces
– ½ cup of rich unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large farm-fresh egg, lightly beaten
– ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp of finely chopped fresh sage
– 1 tsp of kosher salt
– ½ tsp of freshly ground black pepper
– ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn rustic bread pieces, melted unsalted butter, and lightly beaten farm-fresh egg until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped fresh sage, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the herbs are distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Gradually pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, mixing gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy—this helps bind the bites without making them dense.
5. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, packing them firmly to prevent crumbling during cooking.
6. Arrange the stuffing balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each for air circulation to maximize crispiness.
7. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Remove the bites from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for 2 minutes to set their texture. Marvel at the contrast of a crunchy exterior and a soft, savory interior packed with herbaceous notes. Serve them warm with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping, or crumble them over a salad for a festive twist.
Golden Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Zesty, crispy, and healthier than deep-fried—these golden sweet potato fries are your new air fryer obsession. They’re perfectly seasoned and ready in minutes, with a satisfying crunch that’ll make you ditch the takeout menu. Get ready to transform simple roots into crave-worthy fries.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 large, vibrant orange sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons of rich extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of aromatic garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of smoky paprika
– ½ teaspoon of finely ground black pepper
– ½ teaspoon of coarse sea salt
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Scrub the vibrant orange sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt.
3. Pat the sweet potatoes completely dry with a clean kitchen towel to help the oil adhere and promote crispiness.
4. Slice each sweet potato into uniform ¼-inch thick sticks using a sharp knife for consistent cooking.
5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with 2 tablespoons of rich extra virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
6. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of aromatic garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoky paprika, ½ teaspoon of finely ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of coarse sea salt over the fries.
7. Toss the fries vigorously in the bowl for 30 seconds to ensure every piece is fully seasoned.
8. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
9. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then shake the basket to flip the fries for even browning.
10. Continue air frying for another 8–10 minutes, checking at the 8-minute mark until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
11. Immediately transfer the fries to a serving plate to stop the cooking process and maintain their texture.
Golden and irresistible, these fries boast a crispy exterior with a tender, sweet interior that pairs beautifully with a creamy dipping sauce. Try serving them alongside a tangy aioli or sprinkling with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Air Fryer Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Whip up a side dish that steals the show with minimal effort. These carrots transform into sweet, caramelized perfection in your air fryer, delivering a glossy, restaurant-worthy finish in under 20 minutes. Forget boring steamed veggies—this is the upgrade your holiday table or weeknight dinner desperately needs.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh, slender carrots, peeled and trimmed
– 2 tablespoons rich, unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, packed
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, packed dark brown sugar, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and fine sea salt. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds until smooth and fully incorporated.
3. Add the peeled and trimmed fresh, slender carrots to the bowl. Toss thoroughly with a spatula until every carrot is evenly coated in the glaze.
4. Arrange the glazed carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap for even cooking.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes. Tip: Shake the basket halfway through at the 5-minute mark to promote uniform caramelization.
6. After 10 minutes, open the basket and check the carrots. They should be fork-tender and the glaze should be bubbling and sticky. If needed, air fry for an additional 1–2 minutes until deeply caramelized.
7. Carefully transfer the hot carrots to a serving platter using tongs. Tip: Let them rest for 2 minutes—this allows the glaze to thicken slightly and cling better to the carrots.
8. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Tip: For extra shine, drizzle with an additional teaspoon of maple syrup just before serving.
A buttery, cinnamon-kissed glaze cloaks each tender carrot with a sticky-sweet crunch. The edges caramelize into crispy bits, while the centers stay juicy—perfect alongside roasted chicken or piled high on a grain bowl. Try them chilled the next day; the flavors intensify, making a killer addition to salads or charcuterie boards.
Delicious Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole
Perfectly crispy, irresistibly creamy, and ready in under 30 minutes. This air fryer green bean casserole ditches the soggy, mushy texture of the classic—delivering a holiday side dish with serious crunch and flavor. Get ready to make this the star of your table.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh, crisp green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup creamy condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup rich, tangy sour cream
- ¼ cup savory chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon aromatic garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon finely ground black pepper
- 1 cup crispy French-fried onions
- 1 tablespoon rich extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup sharp, shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
- Toss the fresh, crisp green beans with the rich extra virgin olive oil in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Tip: Avoid overcrowding to ensure even crisping.
- Air fry the green beans at 380°F for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until bright green and slightly tender.
- While the beans cook, whisk together the creamy condensed cream of mushroom soup, rich, tangy sour cream, savory chicken broth, aromatic garlic powder, and finely ground black pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Transfer the air-fried green beans to a large, air fryer-safe baking dish or pan.
- Pour the creamy mushroom mixture over the green beans and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the sharp, shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Place the dish back into the air fryer basket. Tip: Use a pan that fits comfortably without touching the heating element.
- Air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and immediately top with the crispy French-fried onions. Tip: Adding the onions at the end preserves their signature crunch.
- Let the casserole rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve this casserole immediately for the ultimate contrast: a creamy, cheesy base gives way to tender-crisp beans, all crowned with that iconic, shatteringly crisp onion topping. The air fryer magic creates a lighter, less greasy version that lets the fresh bean flavor shine. For a fun twist, scoop leftovers into warm tortillas the next day for a killer breakfast wrap.
Air Fryer Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash
Every holiday season needs a showstopper side that’s secretly simple. Elevate your table with this sweet, caramelized Air Fryer Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash—it’s a hands-off, flavor-packed dream.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
2. Slice the halved acorn squash into 1/2-inch thick half-moons.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, melted unsalted butter, and extra virgin olive oil until fully combined.
4. Add the acorn squash slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the maple mixture.
5. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the squash, tossing again to distribute the spices.
6. Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
7. Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, then flip each slice with tongs for even browning.
8. Continue air frying for another 8–10 minutes, until the edges are deeply caramelized and a fork easily pierces the flesh.
9. Transfer the cooked squash to a serving platter and immediately sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley.
Caramelized and tender, this squash boasts a buttery interior with crispy, maple-kissed edges. Serve it warm alongside roasted turkey or over a bed of greens for a sweet-savory salad twist—leftovers reheat beautifully for next-day bowls.
Savory Air Fryer Cornbread Muffins
Ditch the boring side dish—these air fryer cornbread muffins are crispy, golden, and ready in minutes. They’re the perfect savory upgrade to any meal, with a tender crumb and irresistible crunch. Get ready to make your kitchen smell like a Southern bakery.
Serving: 12 muffins | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk, shaken well
– 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, slightly cooled
– 1 large farm-fresh egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until fully combined.
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk 1 cup buttermilk, 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 large farm-fresh egg until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix to keep the muffins tender.
5. Fold in 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives until evenly distributed.
6. Lightly spray a 12-cup silicone muffin tray with non-stick cooking spray.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Place the tray in the preheated air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the muffins from the air fryer and let them cool in the tray for 5 minutes to set.
10. Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Unbelievably crispy on the outside with a moist, fluffy interior, these muffins pack a savory punch from the sharp cheddar and fresh chives. Serve them warm with a pat of butter or crumbled over chili for a textural twist—they’re so good, you might skip the main course.
Air Fryer Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes just got a major upgrade. Forget boiling—this air fryer method delivers creamy, garlicky perfection in half the time. Get ready to ditch your old recipe forever.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 pounds of fluffy russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
– 6 cloves of fragrant fresh garlic, peeled
– 4 tablespoons of rich unsalted butter, cubed
– ½ cup of warm heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt
– ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons of fresh chives, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
2. Toss the peeled russet potato quarters and whole garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon of the cubed unsalted butter in a large bowl.
3. Arrange the potatoes and garlic in a single layer in the air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd to ensure even cooking.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are fork-tender and golden at the edges.
5. Transfer the hot potatoes and roasted garlic to a large mixing bowl.
6. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter, warm heavy cream, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
7. Mash vigorously with a potato masher until smooth and creamy—for extra fluffiness, avoid overmixing once combined.
8. Fold in the finely chopped fresh chives until just distributed.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately.
Perfectly creamy with a subtle roasted garlic depth, these potatoes boast a velvety texture that holds its shape. Pile them high as a side for holiday roasts or top with crispy fried onions for a crunchy contrast.
Air Fryer Honey Butter Dinner Rolls
Unbelievably soft, buttery rolls that taste like a holiday hug—without the oven drama. Air fryer magic transforms basic dough into golden, honey-kissed clouds in minutes. Your kitchen will smell like a bakery, and you’ll have zero regrets.
Serving: 12 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
– 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 large farm-fresh egg
– ¼ cup raw honey
– 2 tablespoons melted salted butter
Instructions
1. Proof the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm whole milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and fine sea salt.
3. Combine wet and dry: Add softened unsalted butter, farm-fresh egg, and raw honey to the yeast mixture. Stir until smooth.
4. Knead the dough: Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a shaggy dough forms. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Tip: If the dough sticks, add a tablespoon of flour at a time—don’t overdo it!
5. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled in size.
6. Shape rolls: Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and place in a greased air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
7. Second rise: Cover rolls with the towel and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy. Tip: For extra fluffiness, ensure your kitchen isn’t too cold—a slightly warm oven (turned off) works great.
8. Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Cook rolls for 8–10 minutes until golden brown on top. Tip: Check at 8 minutes—if they need more color, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
9. Glaze: Brush hot rolls generously with melted salted butter while still in the basket.
10. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before pulling apart.
These rolls emerge with a crackly, buttery crust that gives way to a pillowy-soft interior. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory mains or slathered with extra butter. For a festive twist, sprinkle with flaky sea salt right after glazing—they’re irresistible straight from the basket.
Zesty Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites
Craving a festive appetizer that’s as easy as it is impressive? These Zesty Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites deliver sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in every crispy bite—perfect for holiday parties or a quick snack. Get ready to wow your guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Serving: 12 bites | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed but still cold
– 4 ounces creamy Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into 12 small cubes
– ½ cup homemade or high-quality store-bought cranberry sauce, with whole berries for texture
– 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water for a glossy egg wash
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for a sparkling sweet finish
– Fresh rosemary sprigs, finely chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and roll it out slightly to smooth any seams.
3. Cut the puff pastry into 12 equal squares, about 2×2 inches each, using a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean edges.
4. Place one cube of creamy Brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square.
5. Top each Brie cube with 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce, spreading it gently to cover the cheese without overfilling.
6. Brush the edges of each puff pastry square with the egg wash to help seal the bites.
7. Fold the corners of each square over the filling, pinching the edges together tightly to form a neat pouch—this prevents leaks during cooking.
8. Arrange the assembled bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
9. Lightly brush the tops of the bites with the remaining egg wash for a golden-brown finish.
10. Sprinkle each bite with a pinch of granulated sugar to add a subtle sweetness and crunch.
11. Air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden brown—check at 6 minutes to avoid burning.
12. Remove the bites from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for 2 minutes to set the filling.
13. Garnish with finely chopped fresh rosemary sprigs before serving for an aromatic touch.
Air fryer magic gives these bites a flaky, buttery crust that shatters with each bite, while the warm Brie melts into the zesty cranberry sauce for a gooey, tangy center. Serve them straight from the basket for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or pair with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Croissants
Whip up these flaky, spiced pastries in minutes—your air fryer transforms refrigerated croissants into golden pockets of pumpkin pie magic. No rolling pins or pie crusts required, just sweet shortcuts for holiday cravings. Get ready for buttery layers hugging warm pumpkin filling that’ll make your kitchen smell like autumn dreams.
Serving: 8 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 package (8 count) refrigerated crescent roll dough
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes.
2. Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate into 8 triangles.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves until smooth.
4. Spoon 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin mixture onto the wide end of each dough triangle.
5. Roll each triangle tightly from the wide end to the tip, sealing the edges to prevent leaks.
6. Brush each rolled croissant with the beaten egg using a pastry brush for a golden finish.
7. Place 4 croissants in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for even cooking.
8. Air fry at 350°F for 6 minutes, then flip each croissant carefully with tongs.
9. Air fry for another 6 minutes until the croissants are puffed and deep golden brown.
10. Remove the croissants and brush immediately with the melted unsalted butter while hot.
11. Dust the warm croissants with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve.
These emerge with a crisp, buttery exterior that gives way to a creamy, spiced pumpkin center—perfect for dipping in whipped cream or drizzling with caramel sauce. Serve them warm straight from the air fryer for that irresistible flaky texture.
Air Fryer Apple Spice Cake
Holiday baking just got a major upgrade. This Air Fryer Apple Spice Cake delivers all the cozy, comforting flavors of the season in a fraction of the time, with a perfectly tender crumb and a caramelized apple surprise in every bite.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
– 2 large farm-fresh eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup buttermilk, full-fat
– 1 1/2 cups crisp Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely diced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and fine sea salt until fully combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and packed light brown sugar together on medium-high speed for 3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Tip: Properly creaming the butter and sugar is key for a light, airy cake texture.
4. Add the room-temperature farm-fresh eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
5. Beat in the pure vanilla extract until just combined.
6. With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry flour mixture and the full-fat buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix only until the batter is just combined and no dry streaks remain; do not overmix.
7. Using a spatula, gently fold in the finely diced crisp Granny Smith apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Lightly grease a 6-inch round cake pan that fits in your air fryer basket. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with the spatula.
9. Place the pan in the preheated air fryer basket. Air fry at 325°F for 22-25 minutes. Tip: Start checking for doneness at 22 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
10. Carefully remove the hot pan from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Tip: Allowing the cake to cool slightly in the pan helps it set and prevents it from breaking apart.
11. After 15 minutes, run a knife around the edge of the pan and invert the cake onto the wire rack to cool completely.
12. If using, sprinkle the top with the chopped pecans for a crunchy garnish before serving.
Warm from the air fryer, this cake boasts an incredibly moist, tender crumb speckled with soft, sweet apple pieces. The warm spices create a beautifully aromatic flavor that deepens as it cools. Serve it slightly warm with a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy a slice with your morning coffee for the ultimate cozy breakfast treat.
Conclusion
Brimming with flavor and convenience, this roundup proves your air fryer is a Thanksgiving game-changer! We hope these 28 recipes inspire your holiday table. Give them a try, then pop back to tell us your favorite in the comments below. If you loved this collection, please share it on Pinterest to help other home cooks discover these delicious ideas. Happy cooking and happy holidays!
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
