Irresistibly Quick & Easy Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft, Chewy, and Perfectly Crispy
Craving warm, homemade chocolate chip cookies but short on time? Look no further! These Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies are a game-changer. With just 10 minutes of prep and a mere 8 minutes in the air fryer, you can enjoy perfectly baked, deliciously soft, and delightfully crispy cookies in under 20 minutes from start to finish. They’re quick, incredibly easy, and undeniably delicious, making them the ultimate treat for any occasion, or simply when a cookie craving strikes!
Why This Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is a Must-Try
This fantastic air fryer chocolate chip cookie recipe is a clever adaptation of our highly popular Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies. The secret to achieving that irresistible, perfectly soft and chewy texture lies in the unexpected addition of instant pudding mix. This ingredient truly elevates the cookies, ensuring they remain moist and tender on the inside, with that desirable slight crispness on the outside.
Beyond their incredible taste, baking cookies in an air fryer offers a host of practical advantages that make this method shine. One significant benefit is the built-in safety and convenience. Unlike traditional ovens, which can be accidentally left on, air fryers often have an automatic shut-off feature. This makes them a safer option, especially for busy households or when kids want to help out after school – they can simply pop a few cookies in without constant supervision. The air fryer’s rapid heating and efficient cooking mean less waiting around and a quicker path to a delicious dessert.
Furthermore, air fryer cookies are excellent for portion control. Instead of committing to a large batch in a conventional oven, you can bake just a few cookies at a time, fresh and warm, whenever a sweet tooth strikes. This is perfect for individuals, small families, or when you want to avoid overindulging. The air fryer also prevents your kitchen from heating up, a huge plus during warmer months. You get that beloved soft interior and wonderfully crispy edge, every single time, without the fuss or the energy consumption of a full-sized oven.
Essential Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
To whip up these amazing air fryer chocolate chip cookies, you’ll need a selection of common baking ingredients. For exact measurements, please refer to the comprehensive printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
- FAT – This recipe brilliantly combines both unsalted butter and shortening. The butter provides rich flavor, while shortening contributes to a chewier texture and helps prevent cookies from spreading too much, ensuring that perfect shape. If you prefer, you can replace the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter, but be aware that the texture might be slightly different. Remember, always use unsalted butter to control the salt content in your baking.
- SUGAR – For that classic balance of sweetness and texture, we use both granulated white sugar and light brown sugar. Granulated sugar provides crispness and helps the cookies spread, while brown sugar adds moisture, chewiness, and a lovely molasses flavor that is signature to a great chocolate chip cookie.
- FLOUR – The backbone of any cookie, all-purpose flour is our standard choice, providing a balanced structure. If you happen to have bread flour in your pantry, you can certainly use it instead! Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a slightly chewier cookie, a delightful variation for some.
- CHOCOLATE – While we traditionally opt for classic semisweet chocolate chips for their balanced sweetness and rich flavor, feel free to get creative! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute with any other chocolate chip variety or flavor you adore – dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, peanut butter chips, or even a mix of different chocolates for a dynamic taste experience.
- PUDDING MIX – Don’t skip this! Instant vanilla pudding mix is the magic ingredient that makes these cookies exceptionally soft, moist, and chewy. The cornstarch in the mix helps with tenderness and prevents the cookies from drying out.
- OTHER ESSENTIALS – You’ll also need vanilla extract for flavor, eggs for binding and moisture, and baking soda and baking powder to provide the perfect lift and spread. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
ANOTHER DELICIOUS AIR FRYER RECIPE YOU MIGHT LIKE: Air Fryer Churros
Step-by-Step: How to Make Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
These step-by-step photos and instructions are designed to visually guide you through the process of making these delectable cookies. For the complete, printable version of this recipe, including precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- In a stand mixer bowl, fitted with the paddle attachment, begin by creaming together the softened unsalted butter, shortening, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar. Start on low speed to combine the ingredients, then increase to medium-high and beat until the mixture is beautifully smooth, light, and fluffy. This creaming process incorporates air, which is crucial for soft, tender cookies.
- Next, mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then, add one large egg, beating until it is just combined and no streaks of egg yolk are visible. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the second egg and beat again until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring everything is well integrated.
- In a separate large bowl, combine your dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk these together thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step prevents pockets of leavening agents in your cookies.
- Reduce your mixer speed to low and gradually add the whisked dry ingredients into the wet sugar mixture. Mix until just combined and a uniform dough forms. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing flour can lead to tough cookies.
- Finally, grab a sturdy spoon or a rubber spatula and gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Avoid overmixing once the chocolate chips are added, to prevent them from breaking apart.
Baking Your Perfect Cookies in the Air Fryer
Now that your dough is ready, let’s get those cookies baking!
- Using a 1-2 Tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the cookie dough. Gently roll each scoop between your palms to form a slightly flattened ball. This helps ensure even baking and a uniform shape.
- Prepare your air fryer basket by lining it with air fryer parchment paper. It’s crucial to use parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers or cut to fit the basket, and **never preheat your air fryer with empty parchment paper**, as it can fly up and touch the heating element, posing a fire hazard. Place up to four cookie dough balls at a time into the lined basket, ensuring there’s enough space between them for air circulation and to allow for spreading. Do not overcrowd the basket.
- Bake the cookies in your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes. Air fryers cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them, especially during your first batch. Once baked, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer and allow the cookies to cool undisturbed in the basket for approximately 5 minutes. This crucial cooling time allows them to firm up and prevents them from breaking when transferred.
- After the initial cooling, use a thin spatula to carefully transfer the cookies from the air fryer basket to a wire rack to cool completely. This full cooling process will further crisp up the edges while maintaining the chewy interior. This recipe yields a total of 24 delicious cookies.
How To Make Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies in Ramekins for a “Cookie Sundae”
For an extra special, individual dessert experience, you can bake these chocolate chip cookies in ramekins, transforming them into warm, gooey “cookie sundaes.” Instead of 24 individual cookies, this method will yield 6 indulgent ramekin desserts.
- Prepare six 6-ounce ramekins. Divide the prepared cookie dough evenly among them. Each ramekin should be filled approximately halfway, allowing room for the cookie to rise. For an extra touch, press a few additional chocolate chips onto the top of the dough in each ramekin before baking.
- Carefully place the filled ramekins directly onto the grate in your air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to bake these in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Bake the ramekins at a slightly lower temperature of 325°F (160°C) for about 12 minutes. The lower temperature and longer baking time allow the thicker cookie to cook through without burning the edges. Once baked, remove the ramekins from the air fryer and let them cool for approximately 5 minutes. This cooling period is vital to allow the cookie to set and firm up enough to touch. At this point, you can enjoy them as is, or for the ultimate indulgence, top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create that luscious melted “cookie sundae” effect!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adding instant pudding mix to your cookie dough is a fantastic trick for achieving an incredibly soft, wonderfully chewy, and perfectly moist cookie. The secret lies primarily in the cornstarch present in the pudding mix. Cornstarch is a natural tenderizer that helps to keep the cookies from drying out and creates a more tender crumb. It also contributes to a slightly thicker, more stable cookie that holds its shape beautifully while remaining wonderfully gooey on the inside. It truly provides all the fundamental elements everyone looks for in an exceptional chocolate chip cookie!
It’s a common misconception that “softened butter” means melted or very soft butter. On the contrary, softened butter does not mean the butter should be liquid or greasy. Softened butter refers to butter that has been removed from the refrigerator and allowed to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your kitchen’s temperature. It should be pliable enough that you can easily make a slight indentation with your finger without your finger sinking all the way through or the butter feeling oily. Properly softened butter is crucial for creaming with sugar, as it helps incorporate air, leading to a lighter, fluffier cookie texture.
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable when it comes to chocolate chips. While semisweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, feel free to unleash your creativity. You can use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor, milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier taste, or even white chocolate chips for a different sweetness profile. Other exciting options include mint chips, peanut butter chips, or even chopped chocolate bars (chocolate chunks) for larger pockets of melted chocolate. Mix and match to discover your favorite combination!
Yes, freezing cookie dough is an excellent way to prepare ahead and have fresh cookies whenever you want them. To freeze, roll the dough into individual balls, just as you would for baking. Place these dough balls on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper and freeze for a couple of hours until they are solid. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To bake frozen cookies in the air fryer, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and let them thaw for about 15 minutes at room temperature. Then, air fry according to the recipe directions (350°F for 8 minutes), possibly adding an extra minute or two if they are still very cold. This method is perfect for impromptu warm treats!
Air frying chocolate chip cookies offers several compelling advantages over traditional oven baking. Firstly, it’s a fantastic alternative, especially during hot summer months, as it doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen like a conventional oven does. Secondly, air fryers typically preheat much faster and cook quicker, significantly cutting down on overall preparation time. This means warm, fresh cookies are ready in a fraction of the time. Thirdly, air frying is ideal for portion control; you can easily bake just a few cookies at a time to satisfy a craving without having an entire batch tempting you. Finally, the rapid, circulating hot air in an air fryer excels at creating cookies that are wonderfully crisp on the outside while remaining perfectly soft and gooey on the inside – a texture that many bakers strive for!
Absolutely! The air fryer is surprisingly versatile for baking a wide variety of cookies. You can air fry almost any type of cookie, whether you’re using prepackaged dough or your favorite homemade recipe. We particularly love making peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies in the air fryer! The key adjustment when adapting a conventional cookie recipe for the air fryer is to reduce the suggested oven temperature by about 25 degrees Fahrenheit (approx. 15°C). This lower temperature, combined with slightly shorter baking times, will help prevent the cookies from burning or becoming too dry due to the intense circulating heat of the air fryer. Always keep an eye on your first batch, as air fryer models can vary.
With their perfectly soft and chewy centers, complemented by an irresistible crispy edge, these easy air fryer chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate indulgent treat. They’re simple to whip up in no time, making them a fantastic option for a quick dessert or a satisfying snack whenever a craving hits. Enjoy them warm, straight from the air fryer, or with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an extra special touch.
More Delightful Air Fryer Recipes to Explore
- Air Fryer Brownies
- Air Fryer Donuts
- Air Fryer French Toast Bites
- Air Fryer Apple Fries
- Air Fryer Apple Fritters
I love sharing my passion for baking and cooking, and helping you create wonderful kitchen experiences! Don’t miss out on new, exciting recipes – subscribe to my convenient newsletter to receive free daily recipes directly in your inbox. Simply subscribe here and start your culinary journey with me!
Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save It
Saved!
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- ½ cup shortening butter flavored or regular for chewiness
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed, for moisture and chew
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix (one small box)
- 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
Things You’ll Need
-
Air fryer
-
Air fryer parchment paper
-
Stand mixer
-
Wire cooling racks
Before You Begin
- Important Safety Note for Air Fryer Parchment Paper: Do NOT preheat your air fryer with just the parchment paper inside, especially if it’s not held down by food. The powerful air circulation inside the air fryer can act like a fan, causing lightweight parchment paper to fly up and come into contact with the heating element. This creates a significant fire hazard. If you ever detect a burnt smell (like “marshmallows” when you’re not cooking them in the air fryer), immediately turn off your unit, allow it to cool completely, and then carefully check the heating element for any residue or damage. Always ensure the parchment paper is weighed down by cookie dough or an air fryer-safe baking sheet.
- These truly decadent pudding cookies boast a delightful, almost caramel-like texture on the inside, infused with a classic vanilla flavor. The instant pudding mix is indeed the critical factor that takes this recipe from good to absolutely outstanding. The cookies will puff up beautifully during air frying, and as they cool, their exteriors will develop a perfect crispness, while the interior remains wonderfully gooey and soft. When you first remove them from the air fryer, they will appear thick and smooth, and will be quite delicate to the touch. It is absolutely essential to let them cool and firm up in the basket for a minimum of 5 minutes before attempting to move them. I know it will be incredibly hard to resist, but patience is key for the best results!
Instructions
-
In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, shortening, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on low speed until the ingredients are just combined. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Beat in the vanilla extract. Add one large egg and continue beating until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the second egg and beat again until the mixture is light and well incorporated.
-
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and instant vanilla pudding mix until thoroughly combined. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet sugar mixture, mixing until just blended and a cookie dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
-
Using a sturdy spoon or rubber spatula, gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
How To Bake Cookies in the Air Fryer
-
Using a 1-2 Tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the cookie dough and gently shape each portion into a slightly flattened ball with your hands for even baking.
-
Line your air fryer basket with air fryer-approved parchment paper. Place up to four cookie dough balls onto the parchment-lined grate or an air fryer approved baking sheet, ensuring adequate space between each for proper air circulation. Do not overcrowd.
-
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes. Once baking is complete, remove the basket from the air fryer and allow the cookies to cool untouched in the basket for about 5 minutes. This cooling period is crucial for them to firm up. Afterward, use a spatula to carefully remove the cookies from the air fryer basket and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
How to Bake Cookies in Ramekins in the Air Fryer
-
Prepare six, 6-ounce ramekins by dividing the cookie dough evenly among them. Each ramekin should be filled approximately halfway. For an enhanced presentation and extra chocolate, top each with a few additional chocolate chips.
-
Carefully place the filled ramekins directly onto the grate within the air fryer basket. You may need to bake in batches depending on your air fryer’s capacity.
-
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 12 minutes. After baking, allow the ramekin cookies to cool for approximately 5 minutes to firm up sufficiently before handling. At this stage, you can either let them cool completely and enjoy, or serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top to achieve a delightful melted “cookie sundae” effect.
Nutrition Information
Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Follow on Pinterest @AmandasCookin or tag #AmandasCookin!
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.