Hot Pockets are a popular frozen snack that has been around since the 1980s. They are a convenient and tasty option for a quick meal or snack, especially for those who don’t have the time or desire to cook from scratch. Cooking Hot Pockets in the air fryer is gaining popularity due to its health benefits and consistent cooking results. In this article, we will explore how long to cook a hot pocket in the air fryer and provide you with some tips to optimize the cooking process.

Advantages of Cooking Hot Pockets in an Air Fryer

Air frying is a cooking method that uses hot air to circulate around the food. Compared to traditional deep frying, air frying requires less oil, which makes it a healthier option. Air fryers also cook food consistently, ensuring that your Hot Pocket is cooked evenly throughout. Another advantage is that air fryers are easy to clean, as they don’t produce a lot of oil and grease.

According to a study by the American Heart Association, air frying can reduce the amount of unhealthy fats in food by up to 75%. This means that air frying can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems associated with a high-fat diet. In addition, air frying can reduce the number of calories in food, which can help with weight loss.

Preparing the Hot Pocket

Before cooking your Hot Pocket in the air fryer, it’s essential to prepare it correctly. First, remove the Hot Pocket from its packaging and place it on a plate. Let it sit for a few minutes to thaw slightly. This will help the Hot Pocket cook more evenly. If you cook it straight from the freezer, the outside might overcook while the inside remains frozen.

Next, lightly spray or brush the Hot Pocket with oil. This will help the crust become crispy and golden brown. You can use any cooking oil that you prefer, such as olive oil or canola oil.

Cooking the Hot Pocket in the Air Fryer

Cooking times for Hot Pockets in the air fryer can vary depending on the type and brand of Hot Pocket and the size of your air fryer. As a general rule, it’s best to start with a lower cooking time and add more time as needed. Cooking times will also depend on whether you’re cooking a single or multiple Hot Pockets at once.

The temperature setting for cooking Hot Pockets in the air fryer should be around 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help the Hot Pocket cook evenly and become crispy on the outside. Cooking times can vary, but a general guideline is to cook for 12-14 minutes for a single Hot Pocket and 14-16 minutes for multiple Hot Pockets. It’s essential to flip the Hot Pocket halfway through the cooking time to ensure that both sides are cooked evenly.

It’s always best to check the internal temperature of the Hot Pocket before serving to ensure that it’s fully cooked. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it’s safe to eat.