Save
Air fryer fried Oreos bring that classic fair treat home with less mess and less oil. This recipe is perfect for a quick dessert when you want something nostalgic but simple. The batter crisps up nicely, giving the cookies a warm, gooey center contrasted by a crunchy outside.
These fried Oreos remind me of summer evenings at the state fair. I whipped them up last weekend on a whim and it became an instant family favorite.
Ingredients
- Oreos: Oreos are the star. Use fresh, standard Oreos for the best melting and crisping effect.
- Pancake mix: Pancake mix forms the perfect light batter giving a golden crisp. Look for a mix that is balanced and not too thick.
- Milk: Milk adds moisture and keeps the batter smooth. Choose whole milk or 2 percent for richness.
- One large egg: One large egg binds the batter together. Fresh eggs make the batter more cohesive.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth and enhances the cookie flavor. Opt for pure vanilla for best taste.
- Powdered sugar dusting: Powdered sugar dusting adds a sweet finishing touch. Use fine powdered sugar for an even spread.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Nonstick cooking spray ensures the Oreos don&t stick to the air fryer basket and come out cleanly crisped.
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Bring your air fryer up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it&s hot and ready to crisp those Oreos nicely.
- Make the batter:
- In a medium bowl whisk together pancake mix, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth with no lumps. This creates a light coating.
- Prepare the basket:
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with nonstick spray. This keeps the cookies from sticking and helps them crisp evenly.
- Dip each Oreo:
- One at a time, fully dip Oreos into the batter ensuring they are completely covered. The batter provides the crispy shell.
- Arrange Oreos in basket:
- Place the coated Oreos spaced apart inside the basket. Avoid overcrowding so the hot air circulates properly.
- First air fry session:
- Cook the Oreos for 4 to 5 minutes. This starts the batter cooking and firming up on one side.
- Flip carefully:
- Using tongs, flip each Oreo to cook the other side. This step ensures both sides are crisp and golden.
- Second air fry session:
- Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the Oreos are golden brown and crunchy on the outside.
- Serve with sugar dusting:
- Remove Oreos, place on a plate, and generously dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey centers.
My favorite part of this recipe is the warm center of the Oreo softened by the batter. It always takes me back to fairs and fun family nights. The first time I made these for my kids their eyes lit up as soon as they took a bite.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers allow fried Oreos to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature but finish within one day to keep the crispness. Reheat briefly in the air fryer at 350 degrees for a minute or two to crisp again.
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap pancake mix for a homemade batter of flour, baking powder, sugar, and milk if needed. Non dairy milk like almond or oat milk works well too. Use a flax egg to make this vegan friendly. Vanilla bean paste can replace extract for more intense flavor.
Serving Ideas
These Oreos are great on their own but can be paired with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or cayenne powder in the batter for a twist.
Perfect your fried Oreos with patience and care for a crispy exterior and warm, melty inside every time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the Oreos from getting soggy?
Ensure you do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leaving space allows hot air to circulate and keeps the coating crisp. Also, serve them right after cooking.
- → Can I use other cookies besides Oreos?
Yes, other sturdy sandwich cookies can work well. Choose ones that hold up when dipped in batter and cooked briefly.
- → What kind of batter works best for coating?
A simple pancake mix batter with milk, egg, and vanilla gives a light, crispy shell that complements the sweet cookie inside.
- → Is powdered sugar necessary for serving?
Powdered sugar adds a nice sweet finish and visual appeal, but you can also try a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- → How do I adjust cooking times for different air fryer models?
Since air fryer strengths vary, start with the recommended time then check for golden color and crispness. Adjust by a minute or two if needed.