Strawberry Muffins in Air Fryer or Oven

Name: Strawberry Muffins
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pre-sifted all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup chopped fresh strawberries (washed and hulled); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 3 1/2 tablespoons whole milk (full fat); 3 tablespoons softened unsalted butter; 1 medium egg; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt; 3 to 4 pieces small strawberries (washed and hulled); 1 to 2 teaspoons granulated sugar

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For a quick sweet treat, try this easy air fryer strawberry muffins recipe. You'll get perfectly golden muffins with a soft and fluffy texture in just minutes.

A strawberry muffin on a white plate, garnished with strawberry slices and mint, with more muffins and a red checkered cloth in the background.

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I've always loved baking with fresh strawberries, especially when they're at their peak in spring and summer. There's something about those juicy, sweet berries that makes any treat feel special. When I started making air fryer muffins, I realized they're not just delicious but also quick and fuss-free. They are perfect for breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or even a light dessert.

The air fryer makes baking feel so much easier. There is no need to heat up the whole oven, especially on hot days, and each muffin comes out golden and soft in just minutes. I've shared these with friends, and they are always surprised they were made in an air fryer. Some even enjoy them more than my traditional small-batch blueberry muffins.

Ingredients

A bowl of strawberries, flour, butter, sugar, an egg, vanilla extract, milk, and baking powder on a white surface with a red checkered cloth.

All-purpose flour - Provides structure and body to the muffins.
Strawberries - Add natural sweetness, flavor, and moisture.
Granulated sugar - Sweetens the muffins and helps create a tender texture.
Whole milk - Adds richness and moisture for a soft crumb.
Unsalted butter - Gives flavor, tenderness, and helps with moisture.
Egg - Binds the ingredients together and adds lift.
Baking powder - Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
Vanilla extract - Enhances flavor and adds a warm aroma.
Kosher salt - Balances sweetness and brings out the other flavors.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (177°C) and set the timer at 12 minutes. Then, follow these simple directions to make strawberry muffins in your air fryer.

A white oval dish with flour, a small bowl of baking powder, and a small jug of granulated sugar on a light gray countertop with a red checkered cloth.

Combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl

A white bowl with beaten eggs and a splash of soy sauce sits on a light countertop near a plate of flour and a red checkered cloth.

In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg. Then, stir in milk and vanilla extract.

An oval dish with flour and beaten eggs being mixed, set on a white countertop with a red and white checkered cloth nearby.

Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredient mixture, then gently combine. Add the softened unsalted butter and continue mixing for a few seconds.

A white oval dish containing a mixture of mashed bananas and chopped fresh strawberries, with a spoon partially visible. A red and white checkered cloth is in the background.

Gently fold the chopped fresh strawberries into the mixture.

Four unbaked muffin batter portions in silicone cups on a black baking tray, with a red and white checked cloth in the background.

Place four silicone muffin cups onto the air fryer tray or basket and fill each mold with the batter equally.

Four strawberry-topped cupcakes in paper liners are arranged on a black baking tray, with a red and white checkered cloth in the background.

For the topping, slice strawberries into quarters. Add 3 to 4 slices of fresh strawberries on top of each filling. Sprinkle sugar over top.

Four strawberry muffins in paper cups on a black baking tray, with a red and white checkered cloth in the background.

Air fry until toothpick comes clean. Place on a baking tray to allow the muffins to cool down slightly.

A strawberry muffin in a silicone baking cup sits on a white pedestal, with another muffin blurred in the background.

Once lightly cooled, remove them from the silicone mold and serve immediately.

Hint: To prevent the strawberry tops from burning in the air fryer, loosely cover the muffins with foil during the last few minutes of cooking.

Variations

Here are some easy ways to customize these easy strawberry muffins:

Swap the fruit: Use blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches for a different flavor twist.
Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg gives the muffins a cozy, warm taste.
Make them chocolatey: Mix in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
Go nutty: Stir in chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for crunch.
Cultural flair: Add shredded coconut for a tropical touch, or a little cardamom for a Middle Eastern flavor profile.
Healthier option: Replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour for added fiber.
Special topping: Instead of sugar, sprinkle a streusel topping for a bakery-style finish.

Three strawberry muffins on a white plate, surrounded by fresh strawberry halves, with a red checked cloth and another muffin in the background.

Tips

Top tip: Do not overmix the batter. Keeping it slightly lumpy ensures the muffins stay light and fluffy.

Use silicone muffin molds to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
Cut strawberries into small, even pieces so they bake evenly.
Check the muffins a couple of minutes before the timer ends, since air fryer models can cook differently.
Let the muffins cool slightly before removing from molds to avoid breaking.
For a bakery-style look, sprinkle a little sugar on top before air frying.
If making ahead, store muffins in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the air fryer for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

A hand holds a partially eaten strawberry muffin in a yellow paper liner, showing the moist interior and pieces of strawberry.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer strawberry muffins are perfect for breakfast or brunch, especially when paired with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or white hot chocolate. You can serve them fresh from the air fryer with a little butter or cream cheese spread on top for extra richness. They also work beautifully as part of a brunch spread for special occasions like Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Christmas.

These muffins are also perfect for a light dessert. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make them feel a little more indulgent. If you want something fruity to enjoy on the side, a refreshing glass of Korean strawberry milk pairs perfectly with the strawberry flavors in the muffins.

Storage

To store homemade strawberry muffins, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you'd like to keep them longer, you can freeze the muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm the muffins in the air fryer at 300°F for 2 to 3 minutes or in the microwave for about 20 seconds until soft and slightly warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry first to prevent excess moisture from making the muffins soggy.

Do I need silicone muffin molds for this recipe?

Silicone molds work best because they prevent sticking and hold their shape in the air fryer, but you can also use parchment muffin liners placed inside sturdy molds.

How do I know when the muffins are fully cooked?

The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so start checking a couple of minutes early.

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