Home → Recipes → Breakfast → Pancakes → Air Fryer Pancake Muffins

Air Fryer Pancake Muffins

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: February 1, 2021

Jump to recipe

Air Fryer Pancake Muffins — If you love pancakes, but don’t love all of the cooking mess that comes with them, then you’re going to love these air fryer pancake muffins.

They’re easy to make and much less messy than regular pancakes – and they’re just as delicious! Keep reading for the recipe.

Air Fryer Pancake Muffins made for a great and quick breakfast on this snow day! My kids are home today, so I thought, why not? I love my new cups of baking tins, made just for the air fryer. I am like a kid in a candy store. The world has opened up so many possibilities.

Today, I will show you how to make this easy air fryer pancake muffin recipe that your entire family will love! This is one of the easiest air fryer breakfasts that I have ever made. Easy and delicious!!

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Pancake recipes, here are a few of my favorites, Air Fryer Blueberry Pancake Muffins and, of course, Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Muffins.

What Are Muffin Pancakes?

Muffin Pancakes are a delightful hybrid between traditional pancakes and muffins, combining the best elements of both into a single treat. Essentially, they’re pancake batter poured into muffin tins and baked in the oven, resulting in a light, fluffy texture reminiscent of pancakes but in the convenient, grab-and-go form of a muffin. This innovative approach allows for easy customization with various mix-ins and toppings, much like you would with pancakes or muffins, including fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.

Muffin Pancakes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snacks, offering the comforting flavor of pancakes without the need for flipping on a griddle. They’re also great for meal prep, as they can be made in advance and stored for a quick breakfast throughout the week. Whether you’re serving them warm out of the oven or enjoying them at room temperature, Muffin Pancakes are a versatile and delicious option that bridges the gap between two beloved breakfast classics.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pancake Muffins

Dive into the world of delightful breakfast with Air Fryer Pancake Muffins! These delightful bites combine the ease and comfort of pancakes with the convenience and portability of muffins, making your mornings or snack times absolutely irresistible. Perfect for those busy days or when you crave something sweet and satisfying without the fuss. Let’s explore the key ingredients that make these pancake muffins a must-try in your culinary adventures.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Blueberry Dutch Baby Pancakes

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Pancake Mix: The foundation of our recipe, pancake mix ensures a fluffy texture and sweet taste, simplifying the process by combining several essential ingredients in one.
Milk: Adds moisture to the batter, ensuring your pancake muffins are tender and delicious. Milk also helps to activate the leavening agent in the pancake mix, contributing to the rise and fluffiness.
Eggs: Act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together. Eggs also contribute to the structure and richness, making the muffins more satisfying.
Melted Butter: Brings richness and depth of flavor to the muffins, as well as contributing to a tender crumb by adding fat.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, adding a subtle sweetness and depth that rounds out the taste.
Mix-ins (optional): Whether you choose blueberries, chocolate chips, or nuts, mix-ins add texture and flavor variety, making each bite interesting and delicious.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect batch of Air Fryer Pancake Muffins, ensuring they’re fluffy, flavorful, and fabulously satisfying. Whether you’re serving them up for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these muffins are sure to be a hit with everyone.

How To Make Pancake Muffins In Air Fryer

Making Pancake Muffins in an Air Fryer is a delightful and simple process that combines the comfort of pancakes with the convenience of muffins. Here’s a straightforward guide to creating these tasty treats:

Mix the Batter:

In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy

Prepare the Muffin Pan:

Spray your muffin tins, and then pour the batter in about 2/3 the way full.
Set them into the air fryer basket set the temperature to 320 degrees F for 6-9 minutes.
Remove when golden brown, and when you stick a toothpick into the center, it comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

Once done, carefully remove the muffin pan or cups from the air fryer. Let the pancake muffins cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with additional toppings like syrup, butter, or powdered sugar if desired.

Recipe Variations

Experimenting with Air Fryer Pancake Muffins allows for a wide range of delightful variations, making this recipe versatile and exciting each time you bake. Here are some creative twists to try:

Banana Nut Pancake Muffins: Mash 1 ripe banana and mix it into the batter along with 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Banana nut pancake muffins offer a wholesome and nutty flavor, ideal for a fulfilling breakfast or snack.
Cinnamon Swirl Pancake Muffins: Before adding the batter to the muffin cups, mix 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Fill the muffin cups halfway with batter, add a layer of the cinnamon sugar, then cover with more batter. Use a toothpick to swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter. This variation creates a sweet and spicy swirl in each muffin, reminiscent of cinnamon rolls.
Savory Cheese and Bacon Pancake Muffins: For a savory twist, add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or Gouda) to the batter. These savory muffins are a great option for brunch or a quick snack.
Gluten-Free Pancake Muffins: Substitute the regular pancake mix with a gluten-free pancake mix to cater to those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this variation safe for everyone.
Vegan Pancake Muffins: Use a dairy-free milk alternative, a vegan pancake mix, and substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer or flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water equals one egg). Use vegan chocolate chips or fruit for mix-ins.

These variations on the Air Fryer Pancake Muffins recipe allow you to cater to different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful treats. Don’t hesitate to mix and match flavors and ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Pro Tips

Mastering the art of making Air Fryer Pancake Muffins can turn a simple breakfast into a gourmet experience. Here are some pro tips to ensure your pancake muffins come out perfectly every time:

Ensure Even Cooking: Preheat your air fryer before adding the muffin cups. This helps achieve a consistent cooking temperature, ensuring your muffins are evenly cooked.
Use Silicone Muffin Cups: Silicone muffin cups are ideal for use in an air fryer. They’re non-stick, reusable, and easy to clean. Plus, they help with even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked muffins.
Don’t Overfill: Fill the muffin cups only about two-thirds full. This allows room for the batter to rise without spilling over, creating nicely shaped muffins.
Customize Your Toppings: Before cooking, top your muffin batter with ingredients that complement your flavor profile. Think mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an extra burst of flavor.
Check for Doneness: Air fryer models vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time ends. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.
Let Them Cool: Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the silicone cups before removing them. This cooling period helps the muffins set and makes them easier to remove without breaking.
Experiment with Batter Consistency: Depending on your preference for muffin texture, adjust the amount of liquid slightly. A thicker batter yields denser muffins, while a slightly thinner batter can result in lighter, fluffier muffins.
Batch Cooking: If you’re making multiple batches, you may find the air fryer cooks slightly faster after the first batch since it’s already warmed up. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Cleaning Up: If you’re using silicone muffin cups, a simple rinse and a wash with soapy water should clean them up easily. If you’ve used the air fryer basket directly, soak it in hot, soapy water as soon as it’s cooled down for easier cleaning.

Following these pro tips will help you achieve delicious, perfectly cooked Air Fryer Pancake Muffins that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re aiming for a sweet treat or a savory snack, these tips will ensure success every time.

Faq’s

Can I use any pancake mix for Air Fryer Pancake Muffins? Yes, you can use any pancake mix—from classic to whole grain or even gluten-free mixes. Just follow the mix instructions for batter consistency, and you’re good to go.

How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the muffin cups? To prevent sticking, use silicone muffin cups. They are naturally non-stick and perfect for air frying. If you don’t have silicone cups, you can lightly grease your muffin cups with cooking spray or oil.

Can I make these pancake muffins without an air fryer? Yes, but the cooking method and time will change. You can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. However, the texture might be slightly different than when cooked in an air fryer.

How long do Air Fryer Pancake Muffins last? Stored in an airtight container, these muffins can last for 2-3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and reheat in the air fryer or microwave when ready to eat.

Can I add fruits or nuts to the batter? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like blueberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to the batter before cooking. This is a great way to customize the flavor to your liking.

How do I know when the pancake muffins are done? Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time is up. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.

Can I make these pancake muffins vegan? Yes, to make vegan pancake muffins, use a plant-based pancake mix or substitute the dairy and eggs in your recipe with vegan alternatives like almond milk or flax eggs. Ensure your add-ins, like chocolate chips, are also vegan.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? While not always mentioned, preheating your air fryer can help achieve a more consistent cooking temperature and texture. If your air fryer has a preheat setting, using it can lead to better results.

Equipment Used

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!