Air Fryer Bites

To entertain without stress over the holidays and make the most of the moment, bet on simple and tasty bites prepared in the air fryer. It’s a quick and practical way to create a festive and convivial aperitif.

The Basics

● Aim for Uniformity

Whether homemade or store-bought, make sure that the bites are of similar size so that they cook evenly.

● Cook in Small Batches

The air must circulate well to brown the bites evenly. It is therefore important not to overload the basket. Cook them in small quantities, even if it means making several rounds.

● Keep Warm

When you have several people over and you need to batch batches, you can set aside the bites in the oven at 180°F (90°C) so that they stay hot and crispy until serving.

● Adjust the Temp

The air fryer cooks food faster than a conventional oven. To adapt your recipes, we recommend lowering the temperature by about 50°F (25°C) when cooking in the oven.

● Check for Doneness

It is also suggested to reduce the cooking time compared to an original recipe in the oven. And for best results check the cooking halfway through when turning the bites, or shake them and adjust the time if necessary.

● Avoid Runny Fillings

Stuffings that are very moist, such as runny cheeses or sauces, can escape during baking or make the crust less crispy. Thicker or firmer fillings are preferred.

Perfect Air Fryer Bite Ideas

• Mini puff pastries (sausage, brie and cranberry, mushroom, etc.)
• Risotto balls, arancini or vegetable croquettes
• Mini skewers (teriyaki chicken, lemon shrimp)
• Falafels
• Samosas stuffed with vegetables or meat
• Taquitos
• Fish fritters
• Breaded tofu or cheese sticks (such as mozzarella or halloumi)
• Mini pies or quiches in phyllo dough

Inspiring Recipes

1. Popcorn Chicken

These crispy, air-fryer-browned popcorn chicken bites are easy to share over a drink and add a comforting note to your celebrations.

2. Chicken Wings

These chicken wings, coated in a honey-sriracha glaze, are cooked in an air fryer for maximum crispiness. A sweet-spicy duo that promises to ignite the aperitif hour.

3. Breaded Halloumi

These crispy bites, made with halloumi cheese coated in a breadcrumb mixture, will be a sensation at your New Year’s Eve aperitif and are served with a spicy honey. Make them in advance and freeze them.

4. Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice Bites

These crispy, refined bites are made by topping pieces of rice browned in the air fryer with a spicy tuna tartare. A chic and daring recipe, ideal for holiday aperitifs.

5. Zucchini Fries

Ideal for a vegetarian gourmet aperitif option, these zucchini fries seduce with their light crispy texture. Serve with a smooth ranch sauce that will complement every bite.

6. Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delicious cookies come together in no time and are a mouth-watering delight. With only seven ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time per batch, you’ll get a little sweet pleasure to enjoy—and fast!

For more ideas and everything you need to know about making homemade hors d’oeuvres and bites check out this article: How to make perfect bites and hors d’oeuvres