Who says dessert has to be a hassle? With your trusty air fryer, you can whip up decadent, irresistible treats in minutes—no oven required! From gooey chocolate lava cakes to crispy churros, we’ve rounded up 20 easy, crowd-pleasing desserts that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss. Get ready to indulge; these recipes are about to become your new guilty pleasure!
Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cake
This decadent dessert is a game-changer—molten chocolate bliss in under 15 minutes, thanks to your air fryer!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Instructions:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips and 1/4 cup butter in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup sugar, then add 1 egg + 1 yolk and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, mixing until glossy.
- Gently fold in 2 tbsp flour and a pinch of salt until just combined.
- Divide batter between two greased 6-oz ramekins. Air fry at 375°F for 8–9 minutes—edges should be set but centers still jiggly.
- Let sit 1 minute, then invert onto plates. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with ice cream.
The magic? A crisp outer layer gives way to a river of warm chocolate—no fancy baking skills required!
Tip: For extra ooze, underbake by 30 seconds if your air fryer runs hot.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
These air-fried donuts are a dreamy shortcut—crispy on the outside, pillowy inside, and coated in that irresistible cinnamon-sugar hug.
Ingredients
- 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Separate biscuits and use a small round cutter (or bottle cap) to punch holes in the centers, creating donut shapes.
- Working in batches, air fry donuts in a single layer for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until puffed and golden.
- While warm, brush donuts with melted butter, then dip into a mix of 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon until fully coated.
The magic here? The air fryer mimics deep-frying’s crunch without the mess—so you get bakery-quality donuts in under 15 minutes.
Tip: Save the biscuit holes to air fry alongside the donuts—they make perfect bite-sized treats!
Air Fryer Apple Pie Rolls
These crispy, cinnamon-spiced apple pie rolls are like handheld bites of your favorite fall dessert—minus the fuss of making a whole pie!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium apple (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and finely diced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, toss the diced apple with 1 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp vanilla until evenly coated.
- Unroll the puff pastry and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the apple mixture onto the center of each rectangle, then roll tightly into logs, sealing the edges with a dab of water.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the basket, leaving space between them. Lightly spritz or brush with remaining melted butter and sprinkle with 1 tbsp granulated sugar.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving—the filling will be piping hot!
The magic here? The air fryer gives these rolls an irresistible flaky crunch while keeping the apple filling tender and gooey—no soggy bottoms!
Tip: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Air Fryer Banana Fritters
These golden, cinnamon-spiced fritters are a dreamy way to use up ripe bananas—no deep-frying required!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about ¾ cup)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp cinnamon, and ¼ tsp salt.
- In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, egg, 2 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined (batter will be thick).
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of batter into the basket, leaving space between each.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter.
The magic here? The air fryer gives these fritters a doughnut-like crunch without the grease—perfect for a quick dessert or brunch treat.
Tip: For extra indulgence, drizzle with warm honey or dunk in melted chocolate!
Air Fryer Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized treats combine creamy cheesecake with juicy strawberries—all made effortlessly in your air fryer for a dessert that feels fancy but couldn’t be simpler.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 6 wonton wrappers
- 1/4 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add egg and mix just until combined.
- Lay out wonton wrappers and spoon 1 tbsp of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each. Top with diced strawberries, then fold the corners up and pinch to seal.
- Brush each bundle with melted butter and air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crisp.
- Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
The air fryer gives these bites a delicate crunch while keeping the filling luxuriously soft—perfect for when you crave something sweet without the oven hassle.
Tip: For extra gooeyness, add a small chocolate chip to the center with the strawberries before folding.
Air Fryer Lemon Blueberry Muffins
These bright, tender muffins pack a punch of citrusy sweetness and come together in a flash thanks to your air fryer—no oven required!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter, cooled
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
- In another bowl, mix 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup milk, 1 large egg, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 1 tbsp lemon juice until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix until just combined, then add 1/2 cup blueberries (avoid overmixing).
- Divide batter into 4 greased silicone muffin cups (or parchment-lined ramekins), filling each 2/3 full. Top with extra blueberries.
- Air fry at 330°F for 12–14 minutes, until tops spring back when pressed. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
The air fryer gives these muffins a delightfully crisp edge while keeping the centers fluffy—and the lemon-blueberry combo is pure sunshine in every bite!
Tip: For extra zing, drizzle with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and lemon juice after cooling.
Air Fryer Peach Cobbler
This easy peach cobbler bakes up bubbly and golden in the air fryer, with a buttery topping that soaks up all those sweet juices—perfect for when you’re craving dessert fast!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (about 3 medium)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Toss the peaches: In a bowl, mix peaches, 1/4 cup sugar, lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon until coated. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Prep the batter: Whisk flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Layer in the air fryer: Pour peaches into a greased 6-inch baking dish (or foil pan). Drop spoonfuls of batter over the top, leaving gaps for steam.
- Air fry: Cook at 350°F for 18–20 minutes, until topping is golden and peaches bubble at the edges. Cool 5 minutes before serving.
The magic here? The air fryer gives the topping a crisp-tender texture while keeping the peaches jammy—no soggy bottoms! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate contrast.
Tip: No fresh peaches? Frozen slices (thawed and patted dry) work just as well.
Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These soft, spiced cookies are a breeze to whip up in your air fryer—perfect for when you’re craving a cozy treat without heating up the whole kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, melted butter, and vanilla extract until just combined (don’t overmix!).
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto parchment paper, spacing them 1 inch apart. Flatten slightly with your palm.
- Air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the tray for 2 minutes before transferring.
The air fryer gives these cookies a lightly crisp edge while keeping them wonderfully tender inside—like a cross between a cookie and a muffin top!
Tip: For extra warmth, sprinkle the dough with a pinch of cinnamon before air frying.
Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
Who says you need an oven for perfect cookies? These air fryer chocolate chip cookies bake up chewy, golden, and ready in minutes—no preheating required!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Whisk together 1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt; gradually mix into the wet ingredients. Fold in 3/4 cup chocolate chips.
- Scoop 1-tbsp dough balls onto parchment-lined air fryer trays, spacing 1 inch apart (cook in batches). Air fry at 350°F for 5–6 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly soft.
- Let cool on the tray for 2 minutes before transferring—they’ll firm up as they rest.
The air fryer gives these cookies an irresistible crisp edge with a gooey middle, just like your favorite bakery version. Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle dough balls with flaky sea salt before cooking.
Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple Slices
These juicy, golden pineapple slices get a quick caramelized upgrade in the air fryer—perfect for topping desserts, yogurt, or just eating straight off the tray!
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rings (about 6–8 slices)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Brush both sides of pineapple slices evenly with the mixture.
- Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized and slightly charred at the edges.
- Let cool for 2 minutes before serving—the sugar will crisp up as it sits.
The air fryer gives these pineapple slices a restaurant-worthy glaze without babysitting a skillet, and the cinnamon-brown sugar mix makes them taste like dessert!
Tip: For extra flair, drizzle with honey or sprinkle with toasted coconut right after cooking.
Air Fryer Raspberry Turnovers
These flaky, fruity turnovers come together in minutes with the magic of your air fryer—perfect for a quick breakfast or sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp water
Instructions:
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal squares.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of raspberry jam onto the center of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold each square diagonally into a triangle and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tsp water to make an egg wash.
- Brush the turnovers with the egg wash, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the turnovers in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and air fry for 10–12 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
The air fryer gives these turnovers an extra-crispy shell while keeping the raspberry filling gooey and vibrant—no soggy bottoms here!
Tip: For a tangy twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the jam before filling.
Air Fryer Nutella Stuffed French Toast
This decadent breakfast treat combines crispy golden bread with a gooey Nutella center—all made effortlessly in your air fryer!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup Nutella
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar and fresh berries (for serving)
Instructions:
- Spread 2 tbsp Nutella evenly on two slices of bread, then top with the remaining slices to make two sandwiches.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth.
- Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, letting it soak for 10 seconds per side.
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F. Brush the basket with melted butter, then place the sandwiches inside without overlapping.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries.
The magic here? The air fryer gives you that perfect crunch without the mess of stovetop frying, while the Nutella stays gloriously melted inside.
Tip: For extra indulgence, drizzle with warm maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream!
Air Fryer S’mores Dip
This gooey, melty s’mores dip is your campfire favorite made effortlessly in the air fryer—perfect for impromptu dessert cravings!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Graham crackers, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Lightly grease a small oven-safe ramekin (about 6 oz) with the melted butter.
- Layer the chocolate chips evenly in the ramekin, then sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top. Drizzle with vanilla extract.
- Air fry for 5–6 minutes, until the marshmallows are golden and puffed and the chocolate is melted. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve immediately with graham crackers for dipping.
The magic here? The air fryer gives the marshmallows that perfect toasty crunch while keeping the chocolate luxuriously smooth—no campfire required!
Tip: For extra flair, swap semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate or add a sprinkle of sea salt before serving.
Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies
These flaky, fruity hand pies are the perfect grab-and-go treat—ready in minutes with your air fryer’s magic!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust (or homemade, rolled to 1/8-inch thickness)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Prep filling: In a small bowl, mix blueberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until combined.
- Cut crust: Unroll pie crust and cut into four 5-inch squares. Spoon 1 tbsp filling onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Seal pies: Fold dough over filling, press edges with a fork to seal, and brush tops with beaten egg. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
- Air fry: Place pies in air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crisp.
The cornstarch keeps the blueberry filling jammy without leaking, while the turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for packing in lunchboxes!
Tip: For extra shine, brush baked pies with a little melted jam while warm.
Air Fryer Coconut Macaroons
These coconut macaroons are crispy on the outside, chewy in the middle, and come together in minutes—perfect for when you need a sweet fix fast!
Ingredients
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large egg whites
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 325°F.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the coconut mixture.
- Scoop 1-tbsp portions of the mixture onto parchment-lined air fryer trays, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, rotating trays halfway, until golden brown on top.
The air fryer gives these macaroons an irresistible caramelized crunch while keeping the centers delightfully soft. No oven required!
Tip: For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled macaroons.
Air Fryer Churros with Chocolate Sauce
Craving crispy, cinnamon-sugar churros without the deep-frying mess? Your air fryer delivers the perfect golden crunch—paired with a rich chocolate dip, of course!
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a saucepan, combine water, 4 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat, add flour, and stir vigorously until a smooth ball forms. Let cool 5 minutes.
- Add eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in 1/2 tsp vanilla until glossy.
- Pipe & air fry: Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe 4-inch strips onto parchment, leaving space between. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden.
- Coat: Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon in a shallow dish. Toss warm churros in the mixture.
- Make sauce: Microwave chocolate chips and heavy cream in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
The magic here? Air frying gives these churros a crackly exterior while keeping the centers tender—no oil splatters required!
Tip: For extra-puffy churros, let the piped dough rest 10 minutes before air frying.
Air Fryer Red Velvet Cake Bites
These bite-sized red velvet cake bites are irresistibly tender, with a crisp outer layer thanks to the air fryer—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red velvet cake mix (dry)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Lightly grease the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup red velvet cake mix, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp vegetable oil, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the air fryer basket, spacing them 1 inch apart (work in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops spring back lightly when touched.
- Let cool for 2 minutes, then roll the warm bites in 1/2 cup powdered sugar until coated.
The air fryer gives these cake bites a delightfully crisp exterior while keeping the centers soft and fluffy—like mini donut holes with a festive twist!
Tip: For extra richness, drizzle with melted white chocolate or serve with a side of cream cheese dip.
Air Fryer Mango Sticky Rice
This tropical twist on classic sticky rice is faster and easier thanks to the air fryer—no steaming required!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup glutinous rice (also called sweet rice)
- 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 ripe mango, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth. Stir in the drained rice.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 7-inch round cake pan (or similar oven-safe dish that fits your air fryer). Cover tightly with foil.
- Air fry at 350°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and cook another 5 minutes until the top is slightly firm.
- Let rest for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Serve warm with mango slices and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
The air fryer gives the rice a subtly crisp edge while keeping the center luxuriously chewy—a perfect contrast to the creamy mango.
Tip: For extra richness, drizzle leftover coconut milk from the can over the plated dish.
Air Fryer Honey Glazed Donut Holes
These bite-sized treats are irresistibly fluffy, with a sticky-sweet honey glaze that makes them disappear fast—no deep fryer required!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
- In another bowl, mix 1/3 cup whole milk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place in the air fryer basket (lightly greased). Air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
- Meanwhile, warm 1/4 cup honey and 1 tbsp water in a small saucepan over low heat until thin. Brush generously over warm donut holes.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve immediately.
The honey glaze soaks into the warm donut holes, creating a glossy, caramel-like shell that’s impossible to resist. Tip: For extra crunch, air fry an extra minute—just watch closely to avoid over-browning!
Air Fryer Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
This silky, no-bake dessert gets a modern twist with the air fryer—perfect for when you crave something creamy without turning on the oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste)
- 1 1/4 tsp unflavored gelatin
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla bean seeds (or paste), and salt. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming but not boiling (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle the gelatin over the mixture and whisk vigorously until fully dissolved, about 1 minute.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a spouted measuring cup, then divide evenly among four 6-oz ramekins. Let cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes.
- Place the ramekins in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Set to 300°F and “air fry” for 8 minutes—this gentle heat helps the panna cotta set evenly without curdling.
- Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, or until firm. Serve chilled, with berries or a drizzle of honey if desired.
The air fryer’s gentle warmth ensures a flawlessly smooth texture, while the vanilla bean adds flecks of real-deal flavor. No water bath required!
Tip: For a quicker set, pop the ramekins in the freezer for 30 minutes before refrigerating.
Conclusion
With these 20 decadent air fryer desserts, you’ll never run out of sweet inspiration! Whether you’re craving crispy churros, gooey cookies, or fruity delights, there’s something here for every sweet tooth. Give these recipes a try, and let us know which one’s your favorite in the comments. Don’t forget to share the love—pin this roundup on Pinterest for your next dessert adventure! Happy air frying!

I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.