How to Cook Egg Rolls in Air Fryer (Crispy Every Time)

Egg rolls are a favorite, right? But deep frying them at home can be a huge mess. I wanted that golden crunch without all the oil. After many tries, I figured out how to get perfect egg rolls from the air fryer every single time. Here is how you can do it too.

You can cook egg rolls in your air fryer by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush each egg roll with oil, then arrange them in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The wrappers should be golden brown and crispy, and the filling piping hot. This method works for both fresh and frozen egg rolls, giving you that satisfying crunch without the deep-fried guilt or mess.

Why Your Air Fryer Egg Rolls Fail

My first few batches of egg rolls were a disaster. Some were soggy and sad, others rock hard. I thought the air fryer just was not meant for them. But I was wrong. The problems were all about how I was using it.

Too Much Oil

I used to drench my egg rolls in oil. I figured more oil meant more crisp. It does not work that way in an air fryer. Too much oil just makes them greasy, and the outside gets a flabby texture.

Not Enough Oil

Then I tried no oil at all. Those egg rolls came out dry and hard. The wrapper just could not crisp up without a little fat. It needs that thin coat to get golden.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is a classic air fryer mistake. I would cram as many egg rolls as I could into the basket. The result? Unevenly cooked egg rolls. Some were done, others were still pale and soft.

Forgetting to Preheat

I used to just throw them in a cold air fryer. Big mistake. The outside gets pale and soft instead of starting to crisp right away. It affects the texture a lot.

Not Flipping Them

Another simple thing I missed. If you do not flip them, one side gets super crispy. The other side stays soft and pale. You need to turn them for even cooking.

Cooking at the Wrong Temperature

I tried too high, then too low. Too high, and the outside burns too fast while the inside is cold. Too low, and they just dry out slowly without getting truly crisp. It is a balance.

Here is the thing about air frying egg rolls: it is all about finding that sweet spot. You need a little oil, enough space, and the right heat. Once you get these small things right, your egg rolls will turn out amazing.

• Use a light oil spray or brush.
• Always preheat your air fryer.
• Never overcrowd the basket.
• Flip egg rolls halfway through.
• Keep an eye on the cooking time.
• Adjust for your specific air fryer model.

How to Cook Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Cooking egg rolls in the air fryer is actually pretty simple once you know the tricks. I am going to walk you through each step. This method works great for both fresh, homemade egg rolls and store-bought frozen ones.

Get Them Ready

First, take your egg rolls out. If they are frozen, no need to thaw them. They go straight into the air fryer from frozen. This is a huge time-saver for busy nights, and they still cook up perfectly crispy.

Next, you need to lightly coat them with oil. Do not use an aerosol spray can. Those chemicals can ruin your air fryer’s non-stick coating over time. Use a regular cooking oil, like vegetable or avocado oil. Just brush a thin layer over each egg roll. A silicone brush works best for this. This small step helps them get that beautiful golden color and a great crunch.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

This step is super important, but many people skip it. Turn your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for about 3-5 minutes. A cold air fryer means your food starts cooking slowly, and you might end up with a flabby texture. Preheating gets the cooking chamber hot right away, so the egg rolls start crisping from the moment they hit the basket. It is like putting something into a hot pan for a better sear.

Place Them in the Basket

When the air fryer is hot, put your egg rolls in the basket. Make sure they are in a single layer. This is not the time to play Tetris. If you stack them or crowd the basket, the air cannot move around each egg roll. This means they will cook unevenly cooked and some spots will stay soft. Give each one some breathing room. If you have a lot of egg rolls, cook them in batches. It is worth the extra few minutes.

Cook and Flip Them

Close the air fryer and set the timer for 12 minutes. After six minutes, open the basket and flip each egg roll over. This makes sure both sides get that nice, even crisp. It prevents one side from getting too dark while the other side is still pale and soft.

Cook them for another 6-9 minutes. The exact time depends on your air fryer and how big your egg rolls are. Look for a deep golden brown color on the wrapper. They should feel firm and look bubbly.

Check Them for Doneness

When they look done, carefully take one out. Cut it open. The filling should be hot all the way through, not inside stays cold. If it is not hot enough, put them back in for a few more minutes. If the wrapper looks like it is getting too dark, lower the temperature slightly for the last few minutes. This is where your judgment comes in.

This whole process gets you egg rolls that are crispy, hot, and delicious. You avoid the deep fryer mess and still get that perfect crunch. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!

How Long Do You Cook Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer?

The cooking time for egg rolls in an air fryer usually depends on whether they are fresh or frozen. For most fresh egg rolls, you will cook them for 12 to 15 minutes. Frozen egg rolls often need a little more time, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. This extra time allows the inside to heat up completely from its frozen state.

The size of your egg rolls also matters. Larger, thicker egg rolls will take longer to cook through. Smaller ones will be done faster. It is always a good idea to check them a few minutes before the suggested time. You want them golden brown and hot inside.

My air fryer is a little different than yours, so these times are a starting point. Keep an eye on your egg rolls. If they start to get too dark too fast, lower the temperature a bit. If they are still pale after the suggested time, add a few more minutes.

Flipping them halfway through is key. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy all around. If you skip flipping, one side might get very dark while the other side stays soft. We want a perfect crunch all over.

• Fresh egg rolls: 12-15 minutes.
• Frozen egg rolls: 15-20 minutes.
• Always set the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
• Check for golden brown color.
• Flip halfway through cooking.
• Adjust time based on egg roll size and air fryer model.

How to Get Egg Rolls Crispy in an Air Fryer

The secret to crispy egg rolls in the air fryer is a mix of oil, temperature, and space. First, you need a thin layer of oil on the wrapper. Not too much, just enough to help it brown. A little brush of vegetable oil or a quick spritz from a non-aerosol sprayer does the trick. This oil helps the outside get that lovely golden crisp.

Next, preheat your air fryer. A hot air fryer basket means the egg rolls start cooking and crisping right away. If you put them into a cold basket, they will slowly heat up and might end up soft and pale instead of crunchy. Give it at least 3-5 minutes to get to temperature.

Do not overcrowd the basket. This is super important. When egg rolls are too close together, the hot air cannot circulate around them. This causes some parts to steam instead of crisp, leaving you with soggy spots. Cook them in a single layer, even if it means doing a few batches.

Flipping them halfway through cooking makes a big difference. This ensures even browning on both sides. Without flipping, one side can become golden and crunchy while the other is still flabby texture. A quick flip ensures every inch of the wrapper gets exposed to the hot air.

• Brush with a thin layer of oil.
• Always preheat the air fryer.
• Cook in a single layer, never stack.
• Flip egg rolls halfway through.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for best crispness.
• Check for a deep golden-brown color.

What Temperature Should Egg Rolls Be Cooked At?

For egg rolls in the air fryer, 375°F (190°C) is the magic temperature. I have tried higher and lower, and this one consistently gives the best results. If you go too high, like 400°F, the wrapper can brown too quickly. This leaves the inside cold or makes the outside taste a bit burnt. You want a gradual, even cook.

If you set the temperature too low, like 350°F or less, the egg rolls will just dry out. They will take a long time to get crispy, and the inside might get tough. You want that quick, hot blast of air to get the wrapper crunchy without drying out the filling. The filling needs to be hot, but not overcooked.

Preheating your air fryer to 375°F is part of the process. It helps create a hot environment from the start. This initial heat sets the wrapper, making it easier to achieve that perfect crisp. Do not skip this step, it really makes a difference.

Remember, every air fryer is a little different. Yours might run hotter or cooler. Use 375°F as your starting point. If your egg rolls are getting too dark too fast, try lowering it to 370°F next time. If they are not getting crispy enough, try 380°F. Experiment a little to find what works best for your machine.

• Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Higher temps can burn the outside.
• Lower temps can dry them out.
• Preheat for 3-5 minutes.
• Adjust slightly if your air fryer runs hot or cold.
• Aim for golden brown and hot filling.

How to Prevent Egg Rolls From Breaking Open

It is so frustrating when your egg rolls wrap splits open or the filling leaks out in the air fryer. This often happens for a few reasons. One common cause is overfilling the wrapper. If you stuff too much filling inside, the wrapper gets stretched thin. As it cooks and the filling heats up, the pressure can cause it to burst.

Another reason is not sealing the egg rolls properly. When you roll them, make sure the edges are tightly sealed. You can use a little bit of water or an egg wash to help the wrapper stick to itself. If the seal is loose, it can come undone during cooking, leading to leaks.

Sometimes, the wrappers can get too dry before cooking, making them brittle. If your wrappers feel dry or stiff, gently moisten the edges with water before rolling. This makes them more flexible and less likely to crack. Also, too much oil can sometimes make the wrapper soft and weak, causing it to tear. Use just a light brush of oil.

Finally, very high temperatures can sometimes make the wrapper cook too fast and become brittle, especially if it is overfilled. Stick to 375°F (190°C). If you notice them splitting, try reducing the cooking time slightly or lowering the temperature for the last few minutes. Be gentle when flipping them too.

• Do not overfill the egg roll wrappers.
• Seal the edges tightly with water or egg wash.
• Keep wrappers from drying out before rolling.
• Use a light amount of oil, not too much.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C).
• Flip them gently halfway through cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope these tips help you make the best air fryer egg rolls you have ever had! It took me some trial and error, but now I can whip up crispy egg rolls without any stress. You will love how easy and mess-free it is. Get ready for that perfect crunch every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Better to Bake or Air Fry Egg Rolls?

Air frying is definitely better than baking for egg rolls if you want that crispy texture. Baking them in a regular oven often leaves them a bit soft and chewy. The air fryer circulates hot air all around the egg roll, mimicking a deep fryer without all the oil. This gives you a much crunchier outside, closer to what you get from deep frying.

Can You Put Raw Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely put raw egg rolls in an air fryer. This method works perfectly for homemade egg rolls that have never been cooked. Just make sure to brush them lightly with oil and arrange them in a single layer. They will cook through, and the wrapper will crisp up beautifully, giving you a delicious result.

Are Air Fried Egg Rolls Healthy?

Air fried egg rolls are generally healthier than deep-fried ones. They use much less oil, which means fewer calories and less fat. You still get the crispy texture you love, but you avoid all the extra grease. It is a good way to enjoy a favorite treat without the guilt.

Do You Need to Thaw Frozen Egg Rolls Before Air Frying?

No, you do not need to thaw frozen egg rolls before air frying. They can go straight from the freezer into the preheated air fryer. This is a huge convenience and often helps them maintain their shape better. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time compared to fresh egg rolls.

Does Air Frying Make Egg Rolls Crispy?

Yes, air frying is excellent for making egg rolls crispy. The way the air fryer works, it surrounds the egg rolls with hot, circulating air. This cooks the wrapper quickly and evenly, giving it a golden-brown color and a satisfying crunch. It is the best way to get that deep-fried feel without the oil.

Should I Use Parchment Paper in My Air Fryer for Egg Rolls?

You can use air fryer parchment paper for egg rolls if you want easier cleanup. However, make sure it has holes to allow air circulation. If you use solid parchment, it can block the airflow, preventing the egg rolls from getting as crispy. Sometimes, it is better to just put them directly in the basket.

Will Egg Rolls Explode in an Air Fryer?

Egg rolls usually do not explode in an air fryer, but they can sometimes split open. This happens if they are overfilled, not sealed well, or cooked at too high a temperature. If the wrapper gets too much internal pressure, it might tear. Following the right steps helps prevent this.

How Do You Reheat Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer?

To reheat egg rolls in an air fryer, set the temperature to 325°F (160°C). Place them in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes. This brings them back to life, making them hot and crispy again. It is a much better way to reheat them than in a microwave.