Easter’s here, and we’re thrilled to share our favorite air fryer recipes that bring a modern twist to holiday traditions. These clever dishes make cooking fun and effortless, letting you whip up crispy roasts, veggies, and treats with minimal oil and maximum flavor.
We know how hectic Easter gatherings can get, so our air fryer lineup keeps things simple yet impressive. From golden glazed ham to crunchy deviled eggs, you’ll discover easy ways to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
In our collection of air fryer Easter recipes, we focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients that make holiday cooking simple and delicious. Below, we break down the key ingredients for two of our favorite dishes: golden glazed ham and crunchy deviled eggs. We organize these lists by the order of use in the recipe preparation, including specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
For Golden Glazed Ham
This Easter classic uses minimal oil in the air fryer to achieve a crispy, caramelized finish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ham: 1 (3-4 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham, glazed variety preferred for enhanced flavor—score the surface lightly before use.
- Glaze mixture: ½ cup brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup honey; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard—whisk together until smooth for even coating.
- Aromatic herbs: 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves—chop finely to release oils.
- Seasonings: ½ teaspoon black pepper, ground; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon—combine in a small bowl for a quick spice blend.
- Liquid for moisture: ¼ cup orange juice—freshly squeezed to add a citrusy tang that complements the air fryer’s crispiness.
For Crunchy Deviled Eggs
- Eggs: 6 large eggs—hard-boiled in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes at 250°F for consistent results.
- Filling base: ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon white vinegar—mix thoroughly to create a creamy base.
- Crunchy topping: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil—toss together and air fry separately for 3-4 minutes until golden.
- Flavor enhancers: 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives; ¼ teaspoon paprika—sprinkle fresh for a pop of color and taste.
- Seasoning: ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper—add to the filling just before stuffing for balanced seasoning.
Equipment Needed
We rely on a few essential tools to make our Air Fryer Easter recipes simple and successful, ensuring that every dish turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful without the fuss.
Air Fryer Essentials
To seamlessly transition from our ingredient lists for the golden glazed ham and crunchy deviled eggs, we focus on the core equipment that elevates these air fryer dishes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the must-have items, organized by category for easy reference:
- Air Fryer: Our primary appliance, a model with at least a 5-quart capacity works best for Easter feasts. Opt for one with adjustable temperature settings up to 400°F for precise cooking of roasts and appetizers.
- Baking or Oven-Safe Dish: A 9×13-inch dish that fits inside the air fryer basket is ideal for containing the ham glaze and juices, preventing messes while promoting even crisping.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a set of medium-sized, heat-resistant bowls for preparing fillings, like the creamy mixture for deviled eggs, to keep ingredients organized and mess-free.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipes, so we recommend a standard set to measure out ingredients like honey or mustard precisely.
- Basting Brush: Essential for applying glazes evenly on the ham; choose a silicone brush for its durability and ease of cleaning.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a sturdy cutting board helps in slicing ham or prepping herbs and eggs quickly and safely.
| Equipment Item | Recommended Size/Specification | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | 5-quart or larger | Versatile for family-sized Easter meals |
| Baking Dish | 9×13 inches | Fits standard baskets and ensures even cooking |
| Mixing Bowls | Set of 2-4, 1-2 quarts each | Facilitates prep without cross-contamination |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential equipment, let’s walk through the straightforward steps to prepare these Air Fryer Easter favorites. We will ensure your golden glazed ham and crunchy deviled eggs turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time.
Prep
For the golden glazed ham, we start by preparing the ham and glaze mixture to lock in moisture and enhance flavors. Begin with the fully cooked bone-in ham; score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife for better glaze absorption, then place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, in a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 2 cups brown sugar, 1/2 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup orange juice until it forms a smooth, sticky paste that promises a sweet and tangy sheen.
For the crunchy deviled eggs, we prepare the eggs and filling base first. Hard-boil 6 large eggs by placing them in a pot of water, bringing it to a boil, then simmering for 10 minutes; once done, transfer to ice water to cool and peel easily. Halve the eggs lengthwise and scoop out the yolks into a mixing bowl. Mash the yolks with 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon mustard, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, and a pinch of paprika until creamy and vibrant, setting aside the egg whites for later assembly.
Cook
We move to the air fryer for cooking, where it crisps everything to perfection with minimal oil. For the golden glazed ham, preheat your 5-quart or larger air fryer to 325°F. Place the scored ham in the baking dish inside the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes per pound, basting with the glaze mixture every 10 minutes using a silicone basting brush; the ham will develop a glistening, caramelized crust with aromas of honey and herbs filling the kitchen.
For the crunchy deviled eggs, we focus on the topping next. In a separate bowl, toss 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with a light spray of oil for crispiness. Add the breadcrumb mixture to the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 3-5 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they turn golden and irresistibly crunchy, providing that satisfying texture contrast to the creamy filling.
Assemble
Finally, we assemble the dishes to make them ready for your Easter table. For the golden glazed ham, remove it from the air fryer and generously brush on the remaining glaze, letting it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute; slice it into even portions to reveal the tender, juicy interior with a crispy, sweet exterior that will delight your guests.
For the crunchy deviled eggs, spoon or pipe the creamy yolk mixture back into the egg white halves, then sprinkle the freshly cooked panko breadcrumbs on top along with a dash of paprika for color and flavor. Arrange them on a platter, where the cool, creamy centers paired with the crunchy topping create a harmonious bite that’s both elegant and festive.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Easter celebrations seamless with air fryer recipes, we often prepare key components in advance. This approach saves time on the day of the gathering while preserving the crispy textures and vibrant flavors that define dishes like golden glazed ham and crunchy deviled eggs. Below, we break down the make-ahead steps for each recipe, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the holiday without last-minute rushes.
For Golden Glazed Ham
We suggest preparing this centerpiece up to 24 hours ahead to let flavors meld and simplify your Easter air fryer cooking. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the ham base: Start by scoring the fully cooked bone-in ham with a sharp knife to create a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeply, enhancing the sweet and savory notes. Place the scored ham in a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Mix the glaze in advance: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and ¼ cup orange juice. Whisk until smooth, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. When ready to cook, this glaze will deliver a glossy, caramelized finish that makes the ham irresistibly crispy and aromatic in your air fryer.
- Air fry and reheat tips: If making fully ahead, air fry the ham as per our earlier instructions, then cool it completely. Wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer at 325°F for 10-15 minutes, basting with reserved glaze for that fresh-from-the-oven shine and crunch.
For Crunchy Deviled Eggs
These bite-sized treats can be partially assembled ahead, allowing the creamy filling to develop richer flavors while keeping the panko breadcrumb topping crisp. We recommend prepping up to a day in advance for air fryer Easter recipes that impress with minimal effort.
- Boil and fill eggs early: Hard-boil a dozen eggs and let them cool completely. Peel, halve, and remove the yolks, then mash them in a bowl with ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture back into the egg whites or pipe it for a neat presentation. Cover the filled eggs with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step ensures the filling stays creamy and tangy, with a subtle kick that elevates the overall taste.
- Prepare the crunchy topping separately: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and a dash of paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 12 hours. Just before serving, air fry the topped eggs at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to achieve that golden, crunchy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the smooth interior.
| Recipe | Make-Ahead Prep Time | Storage Duration | Reheat Time in Air Fryer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Glazed Ham | 15-20 minutes | Up to 24 hours | 10-15 minutes at 325°F |
| Crunchy Deviled Eggs | 10-15 minutes | Up to 24 hours | 3-5 minutes at 375°F |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored these air fryer Easter recipes with us
They make holiday prep simple fun and full of flavor
Let’s turn your gatherings into effortless feasts
Remember we’re here to inspire more tasty traditions ahead
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best air fryer recipes for Easter?
Air fryer recipes make Easter celebrations easier and more fun by delivering crispy, flavorful dishes with less oil. This article highlights favorites like golden glazed ham and crunchy deviled eggs, perfect for busy gatherings. They modernize traditional holiday foods, ensuring impressive results without much kitchen time.
How does an air fryer simplify Easter cooking?
An air fryer uses hot air circulation to crisp up roasts, veggies, and treats quickly, reducing oil and mess. For Easter, it helps create dishes like glazed ham and deviled eggs with maximum flavor in less time, ideal for family events where you want to enjoy the holiday, not just cook.
What ingredients are needed for golden glazed ham?
For golden glazed ham, you’ll need a fully cooked bone-in ham as the base, plus a glaze of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, aromatic herbs, seasonings, and orange juice for moisture. These ingredients, used in order, ensure easy prep and a flavorful, crispy finish in your air fryer.
What ingredients go into crunchy deviled eggs?
Crunchy deviled eggs require hard-boiled eggs, a creamy filling of mayonnaise and mustard, plus a topping of panko breadcrumbs, chives, and paprika for extra flavor and texture. This simple mix creates a delicious, holiday-ready appetizer that’s quick to assemble and cook in an air fryer.
What equipment is essential for these air fryer recipes?
You’ll need a 5-quart or larger air fryer for even cooking, a 9×13-inch baking dish, medium mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a silicone basting brush, and a sharp knife with a cutting board. These tools help prepare family-sized Easter dishes efficiently and achieve perfect crispiness with minimal effort.
Can these recipes be made ahead of time?
Yes, for golden glazed ham, score it and mix the glaze up to 24 hours ahead to enhance flavors, then reheat to keep it crispy. For crunchy deviled eggs, partially assemble a day in advance for richer filling, adding the topping just before serving. Follow the article’s storage and reheating tips for stress-free prep.
Are air fryer Easter recipes healthier?
Air fryer recipes are healthier as they use less oil to achieve a crispy texture, making dishes like ham and deviled eggs lower in fat while retaining bold flavors. This method supports balanced holiday meals, allowing you to enjoy traditional Easter foods with a modern, nutritious twist.