Yes, you can put a baking tin in an air fryer if it fits properly and is made of oven-safe metal. Most standard baking tins work perfectly fine in air fryers, provided they don't obstruct the airflow or touch the heating element. At airfryerrecipe.co.uk, we've tested numerous bakeware options to help you achieve the best results.
When considering whether to use a baking tin in your air fryer, size matters most. The tin must leave at least an inch of space around all sides for proper air circulation. Metal baking tins conduct heat efficiently, which can actually improve cooking performance for certain recipes like small cakes or roasted vegetables. Many of our favourite air fryer cake recipes work beautifully when baked in a properly sized tin.
Aluminium and stainless steel baking tins generally perform well in air fryers because they can withstand the high temperatures. However, very thin or flimsy tins might warp under the intense heat. Always check your air fryer's manual for specific bakeware recommendations, as some models like the Ninja Air Fryer have particular guidelines about metal cookware use.
The primary safety concern when using a baking tin in an air fryer is ensuring it doesn't come into contact with the heating element. Most modern air fryers have protective guards, but an oversized tin could still pose a risk. Another consideration is whether the baking tin will melt in the air fryer - quality metal tins won't, but plastic or silicone handles might if they aren't heat-resistant.
We recommend doing a test run with your baking tin empty before cooking food in it. Place it in the cold air fryer basket and observe how it fits. If you notice any part of the tin touching the sides or top, it's too large. For perfect portion control, consider our guide to air fryer conversion charts to adjust traditional oven recipes.
Properly used baking tins won't damage your air fryer, but there are precautions to take. Avoid sliding metal tins roughly against non-stick coatings, and never stack multiple tins. The high-speed air circulation means even small scratches could affect performance over time. After using metal bakeware, give your air fryer basket a thorough clean with our recommended air fryer cleaning solutions.
For optimal results when using a baking tin in your air fryer, preheat both the appliance and the tin together. This prevents food from sticking and promotes even cooking. Reduce standard oven temperatures by about 20°C when converting recipes, as the concentrated heat circulation cooks food faster. Our collection of air fryer recipes includes specific instructions for bakeware use.
Small loaf tins, muffin tins, and individual portion-sized baking tins work particularly well in air fryers. They allow the hot air to circulate around each item for uniform browning. When baking cakes or breads, you might need to cover the tin with foil partway through cooking to prevent over-browning on top while the centre finishes cooking.
Using an inappropriate baking tin in your air fryer can lead to uneven cooking, burnt edges, or even safety hazards. Tins that are too large may block airflow completely, causing the appliance to overheat. Non-metal tins not rated for high temperatures could melt or release harmful fumes. Always verify your bakeware's maximum temperature rating before air frying.
