Can You Air Fry Popcorn?
Kernels need around 200°C of direct, contained heat and most air fryers cannot reliably pop them - and loose kernels get blown into the element.
Updated 9 September 2026
Not recommended
Kernels need around 200°C of direct, contained heat and most air fryers cannot reliably pop them - and loose kernels get blown into the element.
Kernels need around 200°C of direct, contained heat and most air fryers cannot reliably pop them - and loose kernels get blown into the element. Below is exactly how to do it and what to expect.
How to do it
- 1Use a pan or a microwave instead. If you insist, line the basket with foil to make a bowl, use very few kernels, and expect many to stay unpopped.
Tips for the best results
- What to expect: A lot of unpopped kernels, a burnt smell, and a real risk of kernels hitting the heating element.
The verdict
Not recommended. Kernels need around 200°C of direct, contained heat and most air fryers cannot reliably pop them - and loose kernels get blown into the element. A lot of unpopped kernels, a burnt smell, and a real risk of kernels hitting the heating element.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you air fry popcorn?+
Not recommended. Kernels need around 200°C of direct, contained heat and most air fryers cannot reliably pop them - and loose kernels get blown into the element.
What should I do instead?+
Use a pan or a microwave instead. If you insist, line the basket with foil to make a bowl, use very few kernels, and expect many to stay unpopped.