Air Fryer Sugar Cookies From Scratch

Can you air fry sugar cookies? Absolutely! Dive into the delightful world of homemade air fryer sugar cookies with this quick and easy-to-follow guide. Discover the optimal temperature for air frying sugar cookies, the ideal cooking time for perfect results, and a plethora of tips to make these treats truly exceptional. These small batch sugar cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, making them a perfect solution for those sudden sweet cravings or when you desire a fresh-baked treat without the fuss of a traditional oven. They’re destined to become a staple in your kitchen, offering a delightful bite of sweetness anytime you wish.

This air fryer sugar cookie recipe from scratch offers a wonderfully straightforward approach to baking. What you’ll achieve are simple, delightful cut-out cookies that boast a unique texture – a delightful fusion between classic shortbread and traditional sugar cookies. Unlike some softer cookies that spread significantly, these maintain their shape beautifully, resulting in a firm yet tender cookie that holds up well to decorating. The simplicity of this recipe is its strength, providing a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity.

One of the most appealing aspects of making sugar cookies in an air fryer is the incredible versatility. This recipe is wonderfully customizable, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your exact preferences. Feeling adventurous? Swap out the classic vanilla extract for a vibrant lemon extract to add a zesty brightness, or infuse them with the warm, nutty notes of almond extract. For those who love an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider stirring in some chocolate chips, colorful M&M’s, or even Reese’s Pieces into the dough before air frying. The possibilities are endless, making each batch uniquely yours.

Imagine freshly baked cookies, tailored to your taste, ready in minutes – a true testament to the efficiency of air frying. Whether you prefer a subtle hint of vanilla or a medley of sweet mix-ins, these cookies are designed to please every palate. This adaptability ensures that every time you bake, you can create a new variation that perfectly suits your mood or occasion.

For those mindful of sugar intake, this recipe offers an excellent option: air fryer cookies without brown sugar, or even without any added sugar, depending on your choice of sweetener. Initially, I developed this recipe to create truly sugar-free air fryer sugar cookies by utilizing a sugar substitute. However, if you prefer the classic sweetness, white granulated sugar can be easily substituted in equal measure. The flexibility built into this recipe means you can enjoy these delightful treats regardless of your dietary preferences.

In the expert tips section, I’ll delve into the advantages of preparing sugar cookies with sugar substitutes, explaining how this small change can impact the nutritional profile of your beloved snack. Ultimately, the goal is for you to create a treat that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and taste. So, feel free to experiment, personalize, and most importantly, savor every bite of these wonderfully adaptable air fryer sugar cookies. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

⭐ Benefits of Air Frying Sugar Cookies

Why choose to make sugar cookies in the air fryer? The air fryer offers numerous advantages that make it an ideal appliance for baking, especially when it comes to cookies. Here are several compelling reasons why this recipe is a fantastic choice:

• Quick and Easy Baking: One of the most significant benefits is the sheer speed and simplicity. The cookie dough comes together in just a few minutes, and the air frying process takes only 5-6 minutes per batch. This means you can satisfy your cookie cravings almost instantly, making it perfect for spontaneous snacking or a quick dessert.
• Ideal for Holiday Baking: The holiday season often means your main oven is in high demand, busy with roasts, casseroles, and other festive dishes. When you need a batch of cookies for a cookie swap or a holiday gathering, the air fryer steps in as a convenient secondary oven, freeing up your main appliance and ensuring your festive baking plans proceed without a hitch. Plus, these cookies are perfect for decorating!
• Versatile Snacking Solution: Whether you’re looking for an after-school treat for the kids, a portable snack for on-the-go, or something freezer-friendly to have on hand, these air fryer sugar cookies are incredibly versatile. Their robust texture makes them excellent for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying as a quick pick-me-up throughout the day.
• Sugar-Free Options Available: For those on a carb-restricted or sugar-conscious diet, this recipe is a game-changer. By using a 1:1 sugar substitute like Swerve, you can create delicious sugar cookies that are significantly lower in carbohydrates and calories compared to traditional recipes. This allows you to indulge without derailing your dietary goals.
• Irresistibly Delicious: Sugar cookies hold a special place in many hearts, and this air fryer version lives up to the hype. With their perfectly balanced sweetness and tender crumb, these cookies are a beloved treat for people of all ages. Their delightful flavor makes them an instant hit, guaranteed to bring smiles with every bite.

🥘 Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

Crafting delicious sugar cookies in your air fryer requires a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create a delightful dough. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet satisfying recipe:

• All-purpose White Flour: Forms the primary structure of the cookie, providing a tender crumb.
• Spelt or Whole Wheat Flour: Adding a portion of whole grain flour introduces a subtle nutty flavor and boosts the fiber content, contributing to a more wholesome cookie. This also gives the cookies a slightly denser texture, reminiscent of shortbread.
• Baking Powder: The leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly and achieve a delicate texture without significant spreading.
• Unsalted Butter: Essential for richness, flavor, and tenderness. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for optimal creaming with the sweetener.
• Swerve Granular (or White Granulated Sugar): This recipe champions a sugar-free option using Swerve, a 1:1 sugar substitute. However, traditional white granulated sugar works perfectly if you prefer a classic sugar cookie.
• Egg White: Acts as a binder and contributes to the cookie’s structure and a slight crispness on the exterior.
• Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavoring agent that imparts the classic, comforting aroma and taste associated with sugar cookies.

For precise measurements and detailed quantities of each ingredient, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the end of this article. Accuracy in baking, especially when it comes to ingredients like flour and butter, can significantly impact the final texture and taste of your cookies.

Cookie recipes often vary widely, and everyone has their unique approach to crafting the perfect sugar cookie. For instance, many traditional recipes, such as the classic Betty Crocker sugar cookies, often call for powdered sugar to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture, rather than the granulated sugar used here. While many recipes opt for exclusively white flour, I enjoy incorporating a blend of white and whole grain flour (like spelt or whole wheat) into this recipe. This addition not only enhances the nutritional profile by boosting fiber content but also introduces a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sweetness. However, using all whole grain flour can sometimes make the cookies taste a little too “healthy” for my personal preference, leading to a less indulgent experience.

When developing this recipe, I initially experimented with an allulose sweetener, which is marketed as a 1:1 sugar substitute. However, I found that allulose didn’t quite deliver the same level of sweetness as regular sugar or Swerve. For that reason, I highly recommend sticking with Swerve or classic table sugar to ensure your cookies achieve that perfectly balanced, delightful sweetness you expect from a sugar cookie.

It’s important to remember that cooking times and results can vary significantly across different air fryer brands and models. Air fryers operate with varying wattages and airflow patterns, which directly impact how quickly and evenly food cooks. To prevent any accidental burning and ensure perfect results, always make it a habit to check your air fryer basket early, especially when trying a new recipe or using a new air fryer. This proactive approach will help you determine the ideal cooking time and temperature settings specific to your appliance.

🔪 How to Make Air Fryer Sugar Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Next, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture in the large bowl. Continue using your electric mixer on a low speed, mixing everything together until a cohesive, uniform dough forms. This step might take a few more minutes, and you’ll notice the dough coming together, pulling away from the sides of the bowl. Avoid overmixing once the flour is incorporated, as this can develop the gluten too much, leading to tough cookies.

With your dough now perfectly prepared, it’s time for the fun part: shaping your cookies! You have two main options: you can either roll the dough into a uniform log and then slice it into even circular cookies, or you can opt for the classic method of using cookie cutters to create various festive shapes. For using cookie cutters, place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper. This technique prevents sticking and makes for easy rolling. Roll the dough out until it is approximately ½-inch thick (about 1.27 cm). This thickness is crucial as these cookies will maintain their shape and will not spread much in the air fryer, so the initial thickness is what you’ll get in the final product.

After your cookies are cut, carefully transfer a few of them into your air fryer basket or onto the air fryer tray. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket, as proper air circulation is key to even cooking and achieving that perfect air-fried crispness. For my air fryer setup, I found that 4-5 cookies fit comfortably on one tray, allowing ample space for the hot air to circulate around each cookie. Baking in batches ensures each cookie cooks beautifully and achieves the desired golden-brown finish.

⏲️ Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

Once your sugar cookies have finished air frying, resist the urge to immediately transfer them. It’s crucial to let them cool on the air fryer tray for a few minutes. During this brief cooling period, the cookies will continue to firm up and solidify, making them much easier to handle without breaking. If you can wait about 10 minutes, they should be firm enough to gently lift from the tray using just your fingers. However, if you notice any slight sticking, a thin spatula can be your best friend, helping to carefully release them from the surface without damage. And there you have it – perfectly delicious sugar cookies made without an oven, ready to be enjoyed!

😋 Tips for Crafting the Best Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

To elevate your air fryer sugar cookies from simply good to absolutely unforgettable, consider these expert tips that focus on presentation, flavor, and enjoyment. Making the best sugar cookies isn’t just about the bake; it’s also about the experience!

First and foremost, embrace the fun of seasonal baking. Utilize cookie cutters to shape your dough into festive designs that match any holiday or occasion. Think charming pumpkins for Halloween, elegant Christmas trees for the festive season, or adorable hearts for Valentine’s Day. The shapes add an extra layer of enjoyment and make these cookies perfect for gifting or sharing at themed parties.

Secondly, don’t shy away from decorating! Once your cookies have cooled completely, they are ready for their artistic transformation. A simple spread of frosting or icing can turn a plain cookie into a work of art. To add texture, color, and an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle on any of the following:

• Colorful Sprinkles (also known as jimmies): A classic choice that adds vibrant color and a playful crunch.
• Crushed Candy Bars: For an indulgent twist, finely crush your favorite candy bars and scatter them over the frosting.
• Jellybeans: Cut into halves or small pieces, jellybeans can add a chewy texture and fruity flavor bursts.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Always a crowd-plepleaser, these add rich chocolatey notes.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: For a tropical or nutty aroma and texture.

While these are delightful options for indulgence, you can also consider more wholesome decorations. Finely chopped nuts, various seeds (like chia or sesame for a subtle crunch), or small pieces of dried cherries and other dried fruits can add nutritional value along with unique flavors and textures, catering to a wider range of preferences.

🌡️ How to Store Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and deliciousness of your air fryer sugar cookies. Once cooled completely, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out. If you prefer to extend their shelf life, these cookies also freeze exceptionally well. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in freezer bags, ensuring you press out as much air as possible before sealing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll be as delightful as when they were first baked.

Air Fryer Sugar Cookies (from Scratch Recipe)

Recipe by Summer Yule

Wondering, “Can you air fry sugar cookies?” The answer is a resounding yes! These homemade air fryer sugar cookies are incredibly quick and easy to make, offering a perfect treat anytime.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 10 mins

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Servings: 9 cookies

Calories: 152 kcal per cookie

Ingredients

• 90 grams white flour (¾ cup)
• 60 grams whole wheat or spelt flour (½ cup, can also use more white flour)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 8 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 72 grams Swerve, granular (6 tablespoons, or white granulated sugar)
• 1 large egg white
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Weigh all dry ingredients using a food scale for accuracy. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the white flour, whole wheat/spelt flour, and baking powder. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sweetener (Swerve or granulated sugar) until the mixture is light and fluffy. This typically takes about 5 minutes.
3. Add the egg white and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Continue mixing with the electric mixer on low speed until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. To shape the cookies, you have two options: either roll the dough into a log and slice it into uniform circles, or roll out the dough and use cookie cutters.
6. For cookie cutters, roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to a thickness of ½-inch (1.27 cm). Remove the top parchment sheet and cut out your desired shapes. Heart shapes around 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter work well. Avoid overly thin or intricate shapes, as they may brown unevenly in the air fryer.
7. Carefully place 4-5 cookies onto your air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
8. Air fry the cookies at 400°F (200°C) for 5-6 minutes. If using an air fryer oven, use the top rack position. Since this recipe yields about 9 cookies, you will need to cook them in two batches. For the second batch, consider reducing the cooking time by 1 minute, as the air fryer will already be fully preheated.
9. Once baked, let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the air fryer tray before carefully lifting them. They will continue to firm up as they cool. If they stick slightly, use a thin spatula to help release them.

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Food Scale
• Hand Mixer
• Rolling Pin
• Parchment Paper

Notes

💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule: This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). While these air fryer sugar cookies are delicious, remember they are still a treat! They contain flour and butter, which contribute calories. The key advantage here, especially if you use Swerve, is the reduction in added sugar, saving about 270 calories and 72 grams of net carbs for the entire batch (30 calories and 8 grams net carbs per cookie). This can be beneficial for those managing blood sugar or carb intake. However, portion control remains important. This small-batch recipe helps prevent overindulgence, allowing you to enjoy a couple of fresh cookies without a dozen leftovers tempting you. You can freeze the rest for later, easily integrating them into a balanced eating plan.

Nutrition information is for one cookie.

📋 Nutritional Information: Calories, Net Carbs, and Protein

Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your homemade treats can help you make informed dietary choices. For one average-sized air fryer sugar cookie prepared according to this recipe (assuming 9 cookies per batch and using Swerve as the sweetener), you can expect the following estimated values: 152 calories, approximately 11.9 grams of net carbohydrates, and 2.3 grams of protein. These figures are estimates and can fluctuate based on a few factors.

The precise nutrition information will vary depending on how large or small you cut your cookies. Larger cookies, naturally, will have higher caloric and macronutrient counts. Additionally, any extra toppings, glazes, frosting, or mix-ins you decide to add will alter these values. For instance, incorporating chocolate chips or M&M’s will increase the calorie and carbohydrate content, while a sugary frosting will add to both calories and net carbs. Always consider these additions when calculating the total nutritional impact of your personalized treats.

Even though this recipe offers a sugar-free option, it’s important to remember the overall caloric density, primarily from the flours and butter. Enjoy these delicious cookies as part of a balanced diet, and remember that moderation is always key, even with adapted recipes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

Here are answers to some common questions about making sugar cookies in your air fryer, including tips for variations and dietary considerations:

How to make Pillsbury sugar cookies in an air fryer?

To prepare pre-made refrigerated sugar cookie dough, like Pillsbury, in your air fryer, simply arrange the dough discs in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry them for approximately 8 minutes at 350°F (177°C). If your air fryer has multiple racks, use the top rack for the best browning. After cooking, allow the cookies to cool completely in the air fryer basket before attempting to remove them; they will continue to firm up as they cool, preventing breakage. Keep a close eye on them, as pre-made doughs can cook quickly and may vary between brands.

How to make sugar cookies from scratch without baking powder?

While the egg white in this recipe provides a small amount of leavening, omitting baking powder entirely might result in denser cookies. If you need a substitute for baking powder, you can create your own by combining baking soda with an acid. A common alternative is to use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda combined with ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar for every teaspoon of baking powder called for in a recipe. This combination creates a chemical reaction that helps the cookies rise. Alternatively, you might find that the cookies are simply flatter and denser, offering a more shortbread-like texture if no leavening is used at all.

Are these air fryer cookies keto?

Despite being adaptable to be sugar-free, this particular air fryer sugar cookie recipe is not considered low-carb or keto-friendly. The primary reason is the use of white flour and whole wheat flour, both of which are high in carbohydrates. For a truly keto version, you would need to replace these flours with low-carb alternatives such as almond flour or coconut flour. However, these flours have different absorption properties and textures, meaning they cannot be substituted 1:1 without significant adjustments to the recipe, which have not been tested for this specific formulation.

How to make air fryer vegan cookies?

To transform this recipe into vegan-friendly air fryer cookies, you’ll need to make two key substitutions for the animal-derived ingredients. First, replace the unsalted butter with a high-quality vegan butter stick (such as Earth Balance or Miyoko’s Kitchen), which can typically be used as a 1:1 substitute in baking. Second, you’ll need to replace the egg white. Suitable egg replacers for baking include a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer powder mixed according to package directions. These substitutions will help maintain the dough’s consistency and binding properties.

Should you use parchment paper in an air fryer?

Parchment paper is generally safe to use in an air fryer, as long as it’s not allowed to fly around and touch the heating element. It’s excellent for easy cleanup and can be very useful for rolling out dough, as done in this recipe. However, it is crucial NOT to place parchment paper directly underneath the cookies in the air fryer basket or on the tray during cooking. The air fryer relies on hot air circulation from all sides to cook food evenly and achieve a crisp texture. Placing parchment paper beneath the cookies blocks this essential airflow to the bottom, which can result in cookies that are doughy or undercooked on the underside. Always ensure the bottom of your cookies has direct exposure to the circulating hot air.

👨🏾‍🍳‍ Discover More Delicious Air Fryer Dessert Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and delicious results of baking in your air fryer, there’s a whole world of sweet treats waiting for you to explore! The air fryer is surprisingly versatile when it comes to desserts, offering quick and easy ways to satisfy your sweet tooth without heating up your entire kitchen. Expand your repertoire with these fantastic air fryer dessert recipes:

• Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies: A classic favorite, these rich and chewy cookies are incredibly easy to make in the air fryer, perfect for peanut butter lovers.
• Gulab Jamun Cheesecake: An innovative fusion dessert, featuring traditional Gulab Jamun prepared in the air fryer and incorporated into a creamy cheesecake.
• Air Fryer S’mores: Bring the campfire experience indoors with these perfectly toasted, gooey S’mores, made effortlessly in your air fryer.
• Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls: Enjoy warm, soft, and perfectly frosted cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time, an ideal treat for breakfast or dessert.

Don’t stop there! Be sure to explore the entire collection of Air Fryer Recipes for even more culinary inspiration, from savory meals to delightful snacks. Happy air frying!