Easy Air Fryer Brownies: Perfect Fudgy Treat in Less Time

These air fryer brownies are a game-changer for busy home cooks like you and me. They take just 10 minutes to prep, bake in 45 minutes, and deliver rich, fudgy bliss every single time. And here’s the best part: there’s no need to turn on your oven—your air fryer does all the work while you sit back and relax.

I’m always looking for ways to simplify dessert-making while keeping things delicious, and this recipe is my go-to for a quick air fryer dessert. Whether you need a last-minute treat for guests or want to satisfy a sudden chocolate craving, these brownies have you covered. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to the traditional oven version!

Why These Air Fryer Brownies Are a Game-Changer

• Quick prep: Just 10 minutes, and you’re air-fryer ready!
• No oven needed: Perfect for hot summer days or small kitchens.
• Fudgy texture: The air fryer’s even heat gives you that perfect gooey center without overbaking.
• Hands-off cooking: Once it’s in the fryer, you’re free to handle other tasks (or relax!).
• Compact small-batch recipe: Makes 9 servings, great for smaller households or easy portion control.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Air Fryer Brownies Recipe

Your air fryer is the star of this show! Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Air fryer: Any model with adjustable temperature settings works. Preheat to 325°F for this recipe.
• 6-inch cake pan: A square or round pan fits perfectly inside most air fryer baskets. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Microwave-safe bowl: For melting butter and chocolate quickly.
• Basic mixing tools: A whisk and spatula to combine the ingredients smoothly.

Pro tip: If your air fryer doesn’t come with a bake pan, you can use any small oven-safe pan that fits into your basket.

Simple Ingredients for Air Fryer Brownies

This chocolate brownies air fryer recipe uses pantry staples, so no last-minute store runs!

• Bittersweet chocolate chips (60% cacao): For deep chocolate flavor. Swap with semisweet if you prefer a sweeter brownie.
• Butter: Cubed butter melts into the chocolate, creating a rich base for the batter.
• Sugar: Balances out the bittersweet chocolate perfectly.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor beautifully.

Substitution tip: Out of eggs? Use a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2 1/2 tbsp water, stirred and rested for 5 minutes) to make these vegan-friendly.

Air Fryer Brownies Recipe Details

• Servings: 9 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients for Air Fryer Brownies

• 1/3 cup butter, cubed
• 1-1/2 cups 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate baking chips, divided
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Air Fryer Brownies

1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F. Line a 6-inch square or round cake pan with parchment paper, leaving the ends to hang over the sides for easy lifting.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each. Cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, water, and vanilla until combined. Slowly stir in the cooled chocolate mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently fold in the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
6. Place the pan in the air fryer and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Tent the pan with foil if browning too quickly.
7. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out, then cut into squares.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Air Fryer Brownies

• Don’t skip the parchment paper: This makes removing the brownies a breeze—no sticking!
• Watch for doneness cues: A toothpick with a few moist crumbs is perfect. Overbaking dries them out.
• Prep ahead: Mix the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake fresh the next day.
• Batch bake: Double the recipe and bake in two rounds if your air fryer is small.
• Freezer-friendly: Store leftover brownies in a zip-top bag in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw and enjoy!

Easy Air Fryer Brownies Variations

• Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl with a knife before baking.
• Mint Chocolate: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for refreshing flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: Top with caramel sauce once cooled for a decadent finish.

Air Fryer Brownies FAQs

Can I use any air fryer for this recipe?

Most models with a basket or rack will work fine as long as you can adjust to 325°F. Just make sure your pan fits properly!

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Look for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for the best fudgy texture.

Can I make these brownies without eggs?

Yes! Substitute each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2 1/2 tbsp water).

What’s the best chocolate for this recipe?

Use 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate for a deep, rich flavor. Semi-sweet chocolate works if you want it slightly sweeter.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the batter and store it in your fridge overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for ultimate convenience.

You’re going to love how simple and satisfying these air fryer brownies are! So, what’s your favorite kitchen shortcut? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!