How to Dehydrate Food in an Air Fryer
Reviewed by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · Updated
You can dehydrate fruit, vegetables and jerky in an air fryer by running it at its lowest temperature for a few hours. Some models have a dedicated dehydrate setting; if yours does not, the lowest manual temperature works nearly as well.
Quick answer
- 1Slice food thinly and evenly - 3-5mm - so it dries at the same rate.
- 2Set the air fryer to 50-70°C / 120-160°F, or use the dehydrate preset if it has one.
- 3Lay pieces in a single layer with space between them; use a rack to add a second layer.
- 4Run for 2-8 hours depending on the food, checking every hour until leathery or crisp.
Low and slow is the whole trick
Dehydrating is the opposite of normal air frying. Instead of high heat and speed you want the lowest possible temperature so moisture leaves without the food cooking or browning. The fan does the work, moving dry air across the surface for hours.
A dedicated dehydrate setting simply runs the fan at a very low, steady temperature. If your model tops out higher than ideal, use the lowest it offers and check more often.
Typical times
Apple and banana slices take roughly 2-4 hours; tomatoes and citrus wheels 4-6; herbs under an hour. Jerky from thin strips of lean beef is usually 4-8 hours at the lowest setting.
The batch is done when fruit is leathery with no wet spots and jerky bends without snapping. It firms up further as it cools, so do not over-dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you dehydrate in an air fryer without a dehydrate setting?+
Yes. Use the lowest manual temperature, keep food in a single layer and check hourly. It works nearly as well as a dedicated preset, just with a little less control.
How long does it take to dehydrate fruit in an air fryer?+
Thin apple or banana slices take about 2-4 hours at 50-70°C / 120-160°F. Juicier fruit like citrus or tomato takes longer, up to 6 hours.
Can you make jerky in an air fryer?+
Yes. Use thin strips of lean beef, marinate, then dry at the lowest setting for 4-8 hours until it bends without snapping.