The Right Way To Air Fry Hot Pockets For Crispy, Gooey Results

To achieve perfectly crispy and gooey Hot Pockets using an air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to 350°F. Preheating ensures an even cooking environment, crucial for achieving that desirable crispy texture. Once preheated, place the Hot Pockets in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow the hot air to circulate freely around each pocket. Typically, cooking them for about 12 to 15 minutes is ideal, but this can vary slightly depending on the air fryer’s model and the Hot Pocket’s filling. It's important to flip the Hot Pockets halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides become evenly crispy. If you notice they are browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly. After the cooking time, let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This resting period allows the filling to settle and cool slightly, preventing any burns from the molten cheese or sauce inside. This method yields a perfectly crispy crust while maintaining a gooey, flavorful interior, elevating the overall Hot Pocket experience beyond the traditional microwave preparation.
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How to properly air fry a Hot Pocket

Not all air fryers are the same. According to the Hot Pocket website, the recommended cooking time is 13 minutes, but since air fryers can differ, you may need to experiment a bit. Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit; if it's your first time using this method, check the Hot Pocket after about 10 minutes and continue cooking as necessary. While you can't use the crisping sleeve in the air fryer, you can save it to hold the Hot Pocket, which will help prevent burns on your hands.

If the Hot Pocket has any holes, the cheese may ooze out during cooking. The dough can sometimes separate, so avoid cooking it for more than the suggested 13 minutes without checking it at least once. If you're preparing two at once, they will take about 15 minutes; just be sure they don’t touch while cooking, as overcrowding can hinder heat circulation in the air fryer. Once the Hot Pocket reaches your preferred level of crispiness, be cautious when eating it; poke a few holes and let it cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth.

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