Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Quick and Delicious Treat

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through your home. But what if you could enjoy that heavenly scent and gooey, warm cookies without turning on your oven? Enter the air fryer chocolate chip cookies—a game-changing way to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will make you fall in love with baking all over again.

Why Make Chocolate Chip Cookies in an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer to bake chocolate chip cookies is fast, efficient, and incredibly satisfying. You’ll love how quickly the cookies bake to golden perfection, with crispy edges and soft, gooey centers. Plus, the air fryer requires no preheating, making it perfect for impromptu dessert cravings or last-minute treats for guests.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these mouthwatering cookies:

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	2 sticks (1 cup)
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup
Dark brown sugar (packed)	3/4 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tablespoon
Eggs	2 large
Kosher salt	1 teaspoon
Baking soda	1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour	2 1/3 cups
Chocolate chunks/chips	2 cups
Chopped walnuts	3/4 cup
Cooking spray	As needed
Flaky sea salt (optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Soften the Butter: Place two sticks of unsalted butter in the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Let it sit until softened. (You can also use a hand mixer.)
2. Mix the Sugars: Add granulated sugar and dark brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until fluffy and combined.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract, eggs, and kosher salt. Beat until just combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add baking soda and all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the Goodies: Fold in the chocolate chunks and chopped walnuts using a rubber spatula.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to BAKE at 350°F for 5 minutes. This preheating step ensures even baking and crispy edges.

3. Prepare the Air Fryer Racks

1. Line the air fryer racks with parchment paper, leaving enough space on all sides for proper airflow.
2. Spray the parchment paper lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

4. Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop out 2-tablespoon portions of dough and place them on the parchment-lined racks.
2. Space each cookie at least 1 inch apart to allow room for spreading.
3. Gently flatten each scoop slightly to shape it into a cookie.
4. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an extra layer of flavor, if desired.

5. Bake the Cookies

• Place the racks in the air fryer and bake the cookies for 5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown with crisp edges.

6. Cool and Serve

1. Remove the racks from the air fryer and let the cookies cool for 3–5 minutes. This allows them to set and firm up.
2. Serve the cookies warm for the ultimate gooey, chocolatey experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Bake the cookies in batches to ensure even airflow and proper baking.
• Customize the Mix-Ins: Swap walnuts for pecans or add dried cranberries for a unique twist.
• Adjust Baking Time: Air fryer models may vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to prevent overbaking.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~150
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	8g
Sodium	120mg

Why Air Fryer Cookies Are a Game-Changer

1. Quick and Efficient: No need to preheat an oven or bake multiple trays; air fryers handle smaller batches quickly.
2. Energy Saving: Air fryers use less energy than traditional ovens, making them eco-friendly.
3. Perfectly Crispy Edges: The circulating hot air creates a delightful texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies without walnuts?

Yes, you can skip the walnuts or replace them with your favorite nut or dried fruit.

2. How do I store leftover cookie dough?

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added kosher salt to balance the flavor.

4. How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales easily—just ensure your air fryer batches remain manageable.

6. Do I need parchment paper?

Yes, parchment paper prevents sticking and helps with cleanup.

Variations to Try

1. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace half the butter with peanut butter for a nutty twist.
2. Triple Chocolate Cookies: Add white and dark chocolate chips for extra decadence.
3. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: Swap out some of the flour for oats for a chewier texture.

Conclusion: Bake Your Way to Happiness

With their crispy edges, gooey centers, and rich chocolate flavor, air fryer chocolate chip cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Quick to make and irresistibly delicious, these cookies will soon become your go-to dessert. Whether you’re a fan of classic chocolate chips or love experimenting with mix-ins, this recipe offers endless possibilities.

So grab your air fryer, whip up some dough, and let the magic happen. Your taste buds—and your loved ones—will thank you!

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