The One Type Of Air Fryer That Just Doesn't Mix With Baking - Tasting Table

"Rotary-style air fryers (often with rotating baskets or split mechanisms) prioritize movement and airflow rather than stable heat distribution. Constant rotation can cause batter to shift and bake unevenly. This isn't good for baked goods, which require stable temperature, even radiant heat, and minimal disruption."

"[Bucket-style air fryers] create a more contained, consistent heat chamber. Because the basket or tray remains stationary, batters set more evenly, making them much better suited to cakes, muffins, and baked goods. Additionally, the heating element sits above the bucket and circulates air around the food more predictably."

"Air fryer baking works best when you think of it as a compact convection oven, not a miniature traditional oven. This is an essential tip to keep in mind; managing expectations will lead to better results."

Air fryers are versatile kitchen appliances capable of cooking various foods, but different types suit different cooking methods. Rotary-style air fryers with rotating baskets prioritize movement and airflow, making them excellent for roasting and crisping but unsuitable for baking. The constant rotation causes batter to shift and bake unevenly. Bucket-style air fryers create a more contained, consistent heat chamber with a stationary basket or tray, allowing batters to set evenly. The heating element positioned above circulates air predictably, producing more even baking results. Successful air fryer baking requires treating the appliance as a compact convection oven rather than a traditional oven.

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