Many air fryers can dehydrate as well as fry — it just takes a low temperature and patience. Homemade fruit crisps, veg chips and jerky cost a fraction of shop-bought. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: Can you dehydrate in an air fryer?
A: Yes — use the lowest temperature (often 50–70°C) for several hours, either on a dehydrate setting or the lowest manual temperature.
Q: How long does it take?
A: Much longer than cooking — typically 2–8 hours depending on the food and how thin it's sliced.
How it works
Dehydrating removes moisture slowly at a low temperature so food dries rather than cooks. Slice thinly and evenly, lay in a single layer, and use the lowest setting your air fryer offers. Check periodically — it's done when the food is dry and leathery or crisp, with no moisture left.
What to dehydrate
| Food | Rough time (low temp) |
|---|---|
| Apple / banana crisps | 3–5 hours |
| Tomatoes | 4–6 hours |
| Veg chips (beetroot, courgette) | 2–4 hours |
| Beef jerky | 4–8 hours |
| Herbs | 1–2 hours |
For quick crispy snacks rather than true drying, see kale crisps.
Frequently asked questions
Can an air fryer dehydrate food?
Many can — use a dehydrate setting or the lowest manual temperature (around 50–70°C) for several hours. Check your model supports low temperatures.
How long does dehydrating take in an air fryer?
Much longer than cooking — typically 2–8 hours depending on the food and slice thickness. It's done when fully dry, with no moisture left.
What can you dehydrate in an air fryer?
Fruit crisps, vegetable chips, tomatoes, herbs and beef jerky all work. Slice thinly and evenly and lay them in a single layer.