Yes, you can make pancakes in the air fryer! This viral TikTok-style recipe uses boxed pancake mix and parchment paper to create a simple, mess-free breakfast when your stove’s out or you’re just feeling curious. Tested in a Ninja Foodi, this air fryer pancake method works—just know the results are a little quirky!
Make batter according the box - If your batter is too runny, stir in a little more mix. A thicker batter helps it stay in place on the parchment paper while cooking.
Preheat air fryer at 400°F on Air Crisp for 5 minutes.
Cut parchment paper squares to fit your air fryer basket.
Place one parchment paper square in the basket. Spoon about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto it. Add another square on top, then another 1/4 cup of batter. Repeat until you have 4 layers, ending with batter on top.
Air fry for 4–6 minutes at 400°F. Check at 4 minutes and if the middle layers are still raw, continue cooking. I found 6 minutes worked best in my Ninja Foodi Air Fryer.
Carefully remove the stack from the air fryer. Peel away the parchment paper, serve pancakes warm, and drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
This is a great backup method if your stove’s not working or you’re cooking in a dorm or camper.
Works best with thicker pancake batter and a little patience!