Vanilla Soufflé Recipe in an Air Fryer: Quick, Easy, and Delicious
Vanilla soufflé is a classic French dessert known for its delicate texture and airy, cloud-like consistency. Traditionally baked in an oven, this recipe uses an air fryer to make the process faster and more convenient while maintaining the soufflé’s signature fluffiness. Perfect for special occasions or a simple indulgent treat, this vanilla soufflé recipe ensures a stunning dessert with minimal effort. The rich vanilla aroma combined with the light, spongy texture will leave everyone impressed.
Overview
- Cuisines: French
- Course: Dessert
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 12 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 180 per serving
Ingredients
For this air fryer vanilla soufflé recipe, you’ll need simple pantry ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons (plus extra for greasing ramekins)
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 tablespoons
- Milk – ½ cup (warm)
- Granulated Sugar – ¼ cup (divided into 2 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons)
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
- Egg Yolks – 2 large
- Egg Whites – 3 large
- Cream of Tartar – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for stabilizing the egg whites)
- Powdered Sugar – For dusting
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- 4 Ramekins (6-ounce capacity)
- Mixing Bowls (small and large)
- Whisk
- Silicone Spatula
- Saucepan
- Pastry Brush
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ramekins
- Grease the insides of the ramekins with unsalted butter using a pastry brush.
- Dust the greased ramekins lightly with granulated sugar to prevent sticking and give the soufflé a caramelized crust.
Step 2: Make the Base
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, and mix in 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the egg yolks until smooth.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy.
- Add cream of tartar (if using) and continue beating. Gradually add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Beat until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should hold their shape when lifted but not appear dry.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
- Gently fold a third of the whipped egg whites into the base mixture to lighten it.
- Gradually fold in the remaining egg whites, using a silicone spatula and a gentle lifting motion to retain as much air as possible.
Step 5: Fill the Ramekins
- Divide the soufflé mixture evenly among the prepared ramekins. Fill them to about ¾ full.
- Smooth the tops with a spatula and run your thumb around the inside rim of each ramekin to help the soufflés rise evenly.
Step 6: Air Fry the Soufflés
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place the ramekins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the soufflés have risen and the tops are golden brown. Avoid opening the air fryer during cooking to prevent the soufflés from collapsing.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
- Once cooked, carefully remove the ramekins from the air fryer.
- Dust the tops with powdered sugar and serve immediately for the best texture and presentation.
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 45mg
Tips for Success
- Use Room-Temperature Eggs: This helps achieve maximum volume when whipping the egg whites.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding the egg whites into the base, mix just until combined to prevent deflation.
- Work Quickly: Once the soufflé mixture is prepared, move swiftly to avoid losing the airy consistency.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Ensures even cooking and helps the soufflés rise properly.
Why Choose the Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer for soufflé offers several advantages:
- Efficiency: The air fryer cooks faster than a conventional oven.
- Even Heat Distribution: Provides consistent results with less risk of burning.
- Energy Savings: Consumes less energy than heating a full-sized oven.
Conclusion
This air fryer vanilla soufflé recipe is an easy way to create an elegant dessert without the hassle of traditional baking methods. The air fryer’s efficiency makes the process seamless, while the classic French flavors and textures remain intact. With just a few ingredients and some attention to detail, you can wow your family or guests with a light, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious treat. Try this recipe today and elevate your dessert game with minimal effort!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.