Pies in an air fryer need the right setting to avoid burnt crusts while ensuring the filling heats through properly. So, what setting should i put my air fryer on for pies? The short answer is 350°F (175°C) for most pies, but the full answer depends on whether your pie is fresh, frozen, or homemade.
This guide breaks down exact temperatures, times, and modes for every common pie type. You will also learn how to adjust settings when your crust browns to fast or your filling stays cold.
What Setting Should I Put My Air Fryer On For Pies
Most air fryers have two relevant settings for pies: the “Bake” mode and the “Air Fry” mode. Some models also offer “Roast” or “Reheat.” Your choice depends on the pie.
- Bake mode: Best for homemade pies with raw or par-baked crusts. It uses gentler, more even heat.
- Air Fry mode: Best for frozen pies, hand pies, and pre-baked pies you just want to warm up.
- Roast mode: Works as a backup if your fryer lacks a bake setting. Use a lower temp, around 325°F.
If your air fryer only has one mode, dont worry. You can still get great results by lowering the temperature by 25°F and checking the pie early.
The Standard Temperature For Most Pies
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) as your starting point. This temp works for the widest range of pies. It browns the crust without burning it and gives the filling time to heat through.
Here is a quick reference table in list form:
- Frozen fruit pie: 350°F for 25 to 35 minutes
- Frozen meat pie: 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes
- Refrigerated pie (store-bought): 325°F for 12 to 18 minutes
- Homemade double-crust pie: 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes
- Hand pies or turnovers: 375°F for 8 to 12 minutes
- Mini tartlets: 350°F for 6 to 10 minutes
Times vary by air fryer brand and pie size. Always check two to three minutes before the lowest time listed.
Why 350°F Is The Sweet Spot
Air fryers move hot air fast. That speed can scorch a pie crust before the middle gets hot. At 350°F, the crust sets and browns gradually while heat reaches the filling.
Go higher, like 400°F, and you risk a dark, bitter crust with a cold center. Go lower, like 300°F, and the crust turns pale and soggy while the filling takes forever.
For meat pies with raw filling, 350°F is also safe. It brings the internal temp of the filling above 165°F within the cooking window.
How To Set Your Air Fryer For Different Pie Types
Different pies need slightly different approaches. Use the steps below for your specific pie.
For Frozen Pies
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes.
- Place the frozen pie in the basket. Do not thaw it first.
- Set the timer for 25 minutes.
- Check the crust at 20 minutes. If it is browning fast, cover the edges with foil.
- Cook until the filling bubbles at the center and the crust is golden.
Frozen pies are the easiest. They go straight from freezer to basket with no prep.
For Homemade Pies
- Chill your assembled pie for 15 minutes before cooking. Cold dough holds shape better.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
- Brush the top crust with a little milk or egg wash for color.
- Cut two or three small slits in the top to let steam escape.
- Cook for 20 to 30 minutes, rotating the pie halfway if your fryer runs hot on one side.
Homemade pies with a lattice top cook faster. Start checking at 15 minutes.
For Hand Pies And Turnovers
These small pies can handle higher heat. Set your air fryer to 375°F. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping once at the halfway point. The smaller size means the filling heats through quickly.
If your hand pies leak, seal the edges with a fork before cooking. A little filling escaping is normal, but a good seal keeps most of it inside.
Common Air Fryer Pie Problems And Fixes
Even with the right setting, things can go wrong. Here are the most common issues and how to solve them.
The Crust Burns Before The Filling Is Hot
This is the number one problem. Your air fryer is running hotter than the dial says, or the pie is to close to the heating element.
- Lower the temp to 325°F.
- Cover the crust edges with aluminum foil.
- Move the pie to a lower rack if your fryer has one.
- Add a tablespoon of water to the basket to create a bit of steam.
The Bottom Crust Stays Soggy
A soggy bottom usually means the pie sat in liquid or the heat could not reach the base.
- Preheat the air fryer with the basket in it. A hot basket helps set the bottom crust.
- Use a perforated parchment liner or a small metal pie pan with holes.
- Cook at 350°F, then finish at 375°F for the last 5 minutes.
The Filling Does Not Heat Through
Thick fillings, like apple or pot pie, need more time. If the crust is done but the middle is cold, tent the whole pie with foil. Lower the temp to 300°F and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes.
You can also check the internal temp with a food thermometer. For meat pies, it should read 165°F. For fruit pies, look for bubbling juices at the center.
Tips For Better Air Fryer Pies
These small habits make a big difference in your final result.
- Always preheat. A cold air fryer leads to uneven cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the basket. One pie at a time cooks best.
- Rotate the pie halfway through if your model has a hot spot.
- Let the pie rest for 5 minutes after cooking. The filling sets and thickens.
- Keep a close eye the first time you cook a new pie. Every air fryer is a little different.
Also, check your air fryer manual for any brand-specific pie guidance. Some brands, like Ninja and Cosori, publish exact charts for baked goods.
Final Word On Air Fryer Pie Settings
For most pies, set your air fryer to 350°F on the bake setting. Use 375°F for small hand pies and 325°F for store-bought pies that only need warming. Watch the crust, check the filling, and adjust as needed.
Once you know your air fryers quirks, pies become one of the easiest things to make. Start with the temps in this guide, then fine-tune for your machine. You will get a golden crust and a hot, bubbling filling every time.