To reheat dumplings in an air fryer, set the temperature to 160°C (320°F) and cook for 3–5 minutes until piping hot. This method restores crispiness while keeping the filling moist – far better than microwaving. Whether you’ve got leftover takeaway dumplings or homemade ones from the fridge, your air fryer’s circulating heat works wonders.
Air fryers excel at reheating dumplings because their rapid hot air circulation mimics deep-frying without excess oil. Unlike microwaves that leave skins rubbery, or ovens that dry them out, air fryers revive that golden crunch. For frozen dumplings, check out our frozen foods guide for adjusted timings. Even delicate gyoza or bao buns reheat beautifully with this method.
Preheating your air fryer for 2 minutes ensures even cooking – just arrange dumplings in a single layer with space between each. Spritz lightly with oil if they’ve dried out overnight. At airfryerrecipe.co.uk, we’ve tested every variable: 160°C (320°F) is the sweet spot for most dumpling types without burning the wrappers.
Start by placing room-temperature dumplings in the basket – never overcrowd. Cook at 160°C (320°F) for 3 minutes, shake gently, then check. Add 1–2 more minutes if needed. Steam-fried dumplings may need a damp parchment liner to prevent sticking (find our liner tips here). Always serve immediately for maximum crispness.
No thawing required! Cook frozen dumplings at 180°C (356°F) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway. The higher temp counters the icy core. Pair with our quick dipping sauce recipes for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Different dumpling wrappers (wheat, rice, or tapioca) react uniquely to reheating. Thicker skins tolerate 170°C (338°F), while translucent har gow need just 150°C (302°F). For stuffed bao buns, wrap in foil to retain moisture. Our conversion chart helps adjust any recipe.
If reheating multiple batches, keep cooked dumplings warm in a 60°C (140°F) oven. Avoid stacking – they’ll steam and soften. For extra crispness, lightly brush with oil or egg wash before air frying. Leftover fried dumplings? They’ll re-crisp in just 2 minutes at 170°C (338°F).
Soggy bottoms? Elevate dumplings on a trivet or perforated parchment. Burnt edges? Lower the temp by 10°C and reduce time. For fillings that cool faster than wrappers (like meat-heavy ones), tent with foil after the first 2 minutes. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk for more air fryer hacks.
Stuck wrappers usually mean insufficient oil or overcrowding. A light spritz of water can help release them mid-cook. If your air fryer model runs hot (like Ninja or Philips), start checking 1 minute earlier than recommended. Dumplings with cheese fillings may need foil shields to prevent leaks.
