196°C in a conventional oven converts to approximately 176°C in a fan oven. This 20°C reduction is standard when switching between conventional and fan-assisted cooking. For air fryer users, this conversion is particularly useful as most air fryers operate similarly to fan ovens.
Fan ovens circulate hot air constantly, cooking food more evenly and quickly than conventional ovens. When a recipe calls for 196°C, it's designed for still air conditions. The fan's efficiency means you'll achieve identical results at 176°C. This principle applies whether you're baking cakes at 196°C for cakes or roasting vegetables.
Your air fryer works on the same principle as a fan oven - rapid air circulation means you can use the lower temperature. Many air fryer recipes at airfryerrecipe.co.uk already account for this conversion, but it's good to understand the science behind it. The 20°C rule holds true whether you're cooking at 196°C or any other temperature.
Different foods react uniquely to the 196°C to 176°C conversion. For baked goods like cookies or muffins, the lower temperature prevents over-browning while ensuring thorough cooking. Meat cooked at 176°C fan will develop a perfect crust without drying out.
When using your air fryer, you might find the air fryer conversion chart helpful for various foods. Frozen foods especially benefit from the 176°C setting - they'll crisp beautifully without burning. Our testing shows this temperature works perfectly for everything from chicken wings to roasted potatoes.
Most air fryers don't display conventional oven temperatures, so knowing the 196°C to 176°C conversion is essential. If your air fryer has presets, the 'bake' or 'roast' function at 176°C will match a 196°C conventional oven recipe. Always preheat for 3-5 minutes for best results.
At 176°C fan (equivalent to 196°C conventional), cooking times vary by food type. A whole chicken typically takes 20% less time than conventional oven recipes suggest. For roast potatoes, check 5-10 minutes earlier than the recipe states.
Remember that air fryers cook even faster than fan ovens due to their compact size. When converting 196°C recipes, reduce the time by 25% initially, then check for doneness. Our recipe collection includes adjusted times for popular dishes.
If food is browning too quickly at 176°C fan, try lowering the rack position. For uneven cooking, rotate the tray halfway through. In air fryers, shaking the basket ensures even exposure to the circulated air. Always use an oven thermometer to verify your appliance's accuracy.
