145 C in a fan oven is equivalent to approximately 125 C in a conventional oven without the fan. This 20-degree reduction is standard for UK fan-assisted ovens, as the circulating air cooks food more efficiently. When using an air fryer, which works similarly to a fan oven, you can typically use the same 145 C setting for comparable results.
The key principle when converting 145 C to fan oven settings is recognising that fan-assisted cooking requires lower temperatures. This is because the constant air circulation distributes heat more evenly, reducing cooking times by about 20%. For recipes originally written for conventional ovens, you'll achieve better results by subtracting 20 degrees when using a fan oven or air fryer.
Many modern recipes at airfryerrecipe.co.uk now include specific fan oven and air fryer temperature guidance. However, when working with older recipes or international sources, this conversion becomes essential. The 145 C to 125 C adjustment works particularly well for delicate bakes like soufflés or custards that might overcook at higher fan-assisted temperatures.
145 C represents a crucial mid-range temperature for many cooking techniques. In fan ovens and air fryers, it's ideal for slow-roasting vegetables, baking sponge cakes, or cooking fish fillets. The moderate heat allows thorough cooking without excessive browning, making it perfect for dishes where texture matters as much as flavour.
Modern air fryers essentially function as compact fan ovens, meaning the 145 C setting translates directly in most cases. However, because air fryers have more intense air circulation, you might need to reduce cooking times by 5-10 minutes compared to fan oven recipes. Our air fryer conversion chart provides detailed timing adjustments for various foods.
When preparing frozen foods at 145 C in an air fryer, you'll notice they crisp beautifully without burning. This temperature works exceptionally well for reheating leftovers like roast potatoes or baking pre-made pastry items. The gentle heat revives food without making it tough or dry, a common issue at higher temperatures.
For baking enthusiasts, 145 C in a fan oven produces wonderfully even results. Cakes rise uniformly without doming, and biscuits bake through without over-browning at the edges. This temperature is particularly good for cake recipes containing delicate ingredients like citrus or chocolate that might burn at higher heats.
While the 145 C to 125 C conversion handles temperature, cooking times also need consideration. In a fan oven, recipes typically cook 10-15% faster than conventional oven timings. For air fryers, the difference can be 20-25% faster. Always check food 5-10 minutes before the recipe suggests, especially when trying new conversions.
Meat thermometers become invaluable when cooking at 145 C, as visual cues change with fan-assisted cooking. Chicken breasts might look done earlier but reach safe temperatures right on time. Similarly, vegetables soften perfectly at this temperature without losing texture - ideal for meal prepping using your air fryer meal prep recipes.
Some ovens and air fryers run hotter or cooler than their displays indicate. If you find 145 C consistently under- or overcooks your food, invest in an oven thermometer to verify actual temperatures. Regular air fryer cleaning also maintains accurate temperature performance, as built-up grease can affect heat distribution.
