If you haven’t got much time and are just looking for the best air fryer make your pretzels in, this is the one for you (if you have more time, keep reading!)
Ninja AF101 (Editors Choice!)
The Perfect Air Fryer for Pretzels
Easy to use! Easy to Clean! And with a large basket you can make a good amount of pretzels in each batch.
- Easy to use!
- Easy to clean!
- 4 quart basket
- It goes up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
Things to Keep in Mind
When choosing an air fryer for pretzels, there are a few critical things to consider.
After researching several air fryers, we have identified the top five air fryers for pretzels. These air fryers have a large enough basket to accommodate pretzels, can reach the required temperature, and are easy to use.
Best Air Fryers for Pretzels
We all love pretzels, but it’s not always the healthiest snack. That’s where air fryers come in! With the right air fryer, you can make delicious pretzels without all the added oil and calories. After thorough research here are our favorite pretzel-making air fryers.
Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
A great choice for pretzels as with it’s 4 quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket you can make a lot of pretzels in a single batch. With a temperature of up to 400 degrees it’s perfect for baking pretzels.
In addition to pretzels you can also create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods for fun, homemade snacks. It’s also great for popcorn!
One downside to the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is that the unit will need time to preheat before coming up to the temperature required for pretzels.
Pros
- Large 4 quart basket perfect for pretzels
- Wide temperature range: 105 degree Fahrenheit to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dehydrate: Create flat, chip like dehydrated foods for fun, homemade snacks
- Great price
Cons
- The unit will need time to preheat before coming up to the temperature
- The guidebook may not be very helpful
- It is a bit bulky
Ninja DZ201 Foodi
If you’re looking for an air fryer that can cook large batches of pretzels at once and is easy to clean, the Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer might be the perfect choice for you!
On the downside, the air fryer is quite heavy, weighing almost 18 pounds. This could be an issue if you need to move it around a lot.
Some users have also reported that the air fryer can be difficult to operate, with confusing controls.
Pros
- The dual-zone technology lets you cook two different foods (or two batches of pretzels!) simultaneously, saving you time and hassle.
- The 8-quart capacity is perfect for cooking family meals or large batches of pretzels!.
- Easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates.
Cons
- Heavy, weighing almost 18 pounds.
- Can be difficult to operate, with confusing controls.
- Quite expensive
Chefman Air Fryer
This air fryer is perfect for people on a budget. It has a high enough temperature to create some really tasty pretzels and is easy to clean.
The downside is that because of it’s low price tag it’s not built quite as well as some of the other air fryers available.
If you’re looking for a budget way to cook your pretzels, the Chefman Air Fryer Healthy Cooking is a great option.
Pros
- The digital display makes it easy to monitor cook times and ensures evenly cooked pretzels with the LED shake reminder.
- The basket is dishwasher safe
- Temperature range from 200-400 F making it ideal for pretzels
Cons
- Insert tray has little silicone pads that attach to each of the 4 sides – but not well.
- The build quality isn’t great
- The light bulb may need to be replaced after a short time.
COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt
The great thing about making pretzels with this air fryer is that it won’t disturb you! The patented AirWhisper™ Technology keeps noise levels under 55dB (pretty quiet!)
It’s easy to clean, comes with a cookbook, and has a stylish design that fits perfectly on the countertop.
On the downside, it does lack some basic features like a timer, digital display, and auto shut-off.
Pros
- Large and fast (perfect for pretzels)
- Compact design
- Easy to clean non-stick basket
Cons
- No digital display
- No automatic shut-off
- No timer
Chefman Digital Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a versatile air fryer that can cook up delicious pretzels without the calories, then the Chefman Digital 5-Quart Air Fryer is a great option for you.
The LED shake reminder ensures that your pretzels is evenly popped every time.
Unfortunately, it is a little bulky, and the cooking tray has to be washed by hand.
Pros
- One-touch cooking functions make it ideal for cooking more than just pretzels
- Built-in LED shake reminder
- Large 5-quart capacity
Cons
- A bit bulky and may take up too much space
- Cooking tray is not dishwasher-safe
- Customer service can be hit-and-miss
One to Avoid!
This air fryer is quite good however, it’s not built to last, with many people complaining that it fails in the 5th month:
CUSIMAX Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Fails within 5 months!
Looks good on paper, and starts off well, but can fail after just 5 months
- Users report product failure after 5 months
- Very Smoky
- Best avoided unless you like returning products
Buying Guide
When choosing an air fryer specifically for making pretzels, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best results. Here’s a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Capacity: Consider the size of the air fryer and its basket. If you plan to make large pretzels or a batch of them, you’ll need an air fryer with a spacious basket. A capacity of at least 5 quarts is generally suitable for most pretzel recipes.
- Power (Wattage): Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times and better crispness. Look for an air fryer with at least 1500 watts for efficient pretzel making.
- Temperature Range: Check the temperature range of the air fryer. Since pretzels require high heat for a short time to achieve that classic golden-brown crust, an air fryer that can reach temperatures of up to 400°F (200°C) or higher is recommended.
- Cooking Presets and Timer: Some air fryers come with preset cooking options, including one for baked goods. These presets can make cooking pretzels more convenient. Additionally, a digital timer is useful to ensure you don’t overcook or undercook the pretzels.
- Air Circulation Technology: Look for an air fryer that offers even and consistent air circulation. This feature ensures that your pretzels cook uniformly and achieve a crispy texture all around.
- Ease of Cleaning: Check if the air fryer’s components are dishwasher-safe or easy to clean by hand. Pretzel dough can sometimes be sticky, so a non-stick basket or tray is beneficial.
- Additional Accessories: Some air fryers come with additional accessories like baking pans or racks. These can be handy for making pretzels in different shapes and sizes or for making multiple pretzels at once.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research the brand and read reviews from other users who have used the air fryer for making pretzels. Positive feedback from customers can be a good indicator of its performance.
- Price and Warranty: Set a budget for your air fryer purchase and compare different models within that range. Additionally, check the warranty period provided by the manufacturer to protect your investment.
- Space and Design: Consider the available space in your kitchen and the air fryer’s design. If you have limited counter space, look for a compact model that fits well in your kitchen layout.
Remember, while air fryers are versatile appliances, not all models are created equal when it comes to making pretzels. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be better equipped to choose an air fryer that meets your needs and delivers delicious, crispy pretzels every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an air fryer, and how does it work for making pretzels?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it. It uses convection to cook the food, similar to a convection oven but with a smaller and more compact design. For pretzels, the hot air helps achieve a crispy texture without the need for deep-frying.
Can I make homemade pretzels in an air fryer?
Yes, you can definitely make homemade pretzels in an air fryer. In fact, using an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying as it requires little to no oil to achieve a crispy exterior.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer before making pretzels?
It is generally recommended to preheat the air fryer before cooking. Preheating ensures that the air inside the fryer is already hot when you place the pretzels in, helping them cook more evenly and achieve a better texture.
How do I prevent the pretzels from sticking to the air fryer basket?
To prevent sticking, lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush a thin layer of oil before placing the pretzels. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper or silicone baking mats designed for air fryers.
What temperature and cooking time should I set for pretzels in the air fryer?
The optimal temperature and cooking time may vary depending on the specific air fryer model and the size of the pretzels. As a general guideline, try cooking pretzels at around 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning.
Can I cook frozen pretzels in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen pretzels in the air fryer. Just follow the instructions on the package or use the cooking time and temperature recommended for frozen pretzels.
Should I brush the pretzels with butter or egg wash before air frying?
Yes, brushing the pretzels with butter or an egg wash before air frying can enhance their flavor and help them achieve a golden-brown color on the surface.
Can I cook different types of pretzels in the air fryer, such as sweet or cinnamon pretzels?
Absolutely! You can cook various types of pretzels in the air fryer, including sweet or cinnamon-coated pretzels. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly based on the recipe.
How do I prevent the pretzels from becoming too dry in the air fryer?
To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking the pretzels. Keep an eye on them during the cooking process and consider brushing them with butter or oil after they come out of the air fryer to add some moisture.
Can I make a large batch of pretzels in the air fryer at once?
The capacity of air fryers can vary, so it’s essential to check the user manual for the recommended maximum capacity. Overcrowding the air fryer may result in uneven cooking, so it’s best to cook pretzels in batches if needed.
Final thoughts 💭
An Air Fryer is a great way to make pretzels. By choosing one of our recommended products and ordering from Amazon you’ll be popping your kernels in no time.
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