Easy Air Fryer Roasted Chestnuts (Perfectly Roasted & Peeled Every Time!)

Cozy up with these Easy Air Fryer Roasted Chestnuts—perfectly roasted and easy to peel every time! Nutty, warm, and fragrant, they make a delicious holiday snack or a comforting winter treat that’s ready in minutes

Enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of freshly roasted chestnuts with this Easy Air Fryer recipe. Quick, simple, and perfectly roasted every time, these chestnuts make a cozy snack or festive addition to any holiday spread.

Christmas will be here before we know it! If you are looking for some more incredible holiday recipes, be sure to try my Air Fryer Christmas Light Brownies, Air Fryer Christmas M&M Cookies, and Air Fryer Christmas Cupcakes.

Why You’ll Love Roasting Chestnuts In The Air Fryer!

• Only 20 minutes, start to finish
• Traditional Christmas recipe
• Cooking chestnuts is easy enough for beginners
• Roasted chestnuts make a great snack
• Delicious

Ingredients for Air Fryer Roasted Chestnuts

• Chestnuts: Fresh, firm chestnuts with shells for roasting in air fryer.
• Salt: Sprinkled lightly to enhance the nutty, roasted flavor.
• Paring Knife: Use a sharp paring knife to carefully score the chestnuts’ shells before roasting. This prevents them from bursting and makes peeling easier after cooking in the air fryer.

How to Roast Chestnuts in the Air Fryer (The Method)

Step 1: Start by scoring each nut, meaning make an X into the shell using a sharp knife.

Step 2: Once you have finished your batch, place them into the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F, air fryer setting, and set cook time for 10-15 minutes; as soon as they have popped, remove them from the air fryer.

How to Score Chestnuts (Crucial Step)

Use a sharp paring knife or serrated knife to cut an “X” into the flat side of each chestnut. This allows steam to escape during cooking, prevents the nuts from bursting, and makes peeling much easier once roasted.

How to Peel Roasted Chestnuts Easily

After roasting, let the chestnuts cool just enough to handle safely. Peel off the outer shell first, then remove the thin inner skin while the nuts are still warm—this makes the process much easier and prevents tearing the chestnut meat.

Easy Air Fryer Roasted Chestnuts Recipe Tips

• Score carefully: Always cut an “X” on each chestnut to prevent bursting.
• Use fresh chestnuts: Fresh nuts roast better and peel more easily.
• Don’t overcrowd: Give chestnuts space in the air fryer for even roasting.
• Shake halfway: Toss or shake the basket mid-cooking for uniform browning.
• Peel while warm: Chestnuts are easiest to peel when still slightly hot.
• Adjust cooking time: Air fryer models vary, so check for tender nuts.
• Add flavor: Sprinkle lightly with salt or a touch of cinnamon for extra taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy them warm as a cozy winter snack straight from the air fryer.
• Toss into salads or grain bowls for a nutty, roasted flavor.
• Pair with melted chocolate or drizzle with honey for a sweet treat.
• Add to stuffing or roasted vegetable dishes for holiday meals.
• Serve alongside cheeses and charcuterie for a festive appetizer spread.

Troubleshooting

Why aren’t my chestnuts peeling easily? This usually happens if the chestnuts are undercooked or weren’t scored properly. Make sure each chestnut has a clear “X” cut on the flat side before roasting, and cook until the shell opens slightly and the nut inside is tender.

Why are my chestnuts burnt? Burnt chestnuts often result from too high heat or overcrowding in the air fryer.

Can I fix chestnuts that are hard to peel? Try wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel for a few minutes after roasting—the steam will help loosen the shells and skins, making peeling easier.

How do I prevent uneven roasting? Don’t overcrowd the basket and shake or toss the chestnuts midway through cooking. This ensures all nuts get evenly roasted.

Easy Air Fryer Roasted Chestnuts Recipe Faqs

Do I need to score chestnuts before roasting? Yes, scoring prevents them from bursting and makes peeling easier.

Can I use frozen chestnuts? Fresh chestnuts work best; frozen ones may be difficult to peel.

How long do chestnuts take to roast in an air fryer? About 10-15 minutes at 400°F, depending on size and air fryer model.

How do I know when chestnuts are done? The shells will peel back at the scored “X,” and the nut inside will be tender.

Can I season chestnuts before roasting? Yes! Lightly coat with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, or try cinnamon for a sweet twist.

How should I store leftover roasted chestnuts? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Can I peel chestnuts ahead of time? It’s easier to peel them warm, but you can peel and store in the fridge, then reheat gently.

More Easy Air Fryer Holiday Recipes

Grinch Cake (This is so good!)

Top Ten Air Fryer Christmas Cookies Recipes

Air Fryer Christmas Bagels

Air Fryer Christmas Brownie Mix Cookies

Air Fryer Christmas Cupcakes

Air Fryer Christmas Light Brownies

Air Fryer Christmas M&M Cookies

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!