Roasting chestnuts is a beloved tradition during the colder months, but did you know that you can easily achieve that delicious, nutty flavor right at home using an air fryer? An air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows you to roast chestnuts evenly and quickly, with minimal fuss. If you’ve never tried roasting chestnuts at home, this guide will show you just how simple it is to prepare this holiday favorite using a digital air fryer or a double basket air fryer.

What You’ll Need to Roast Chestnuts in an Air Fryer

Before diving into the steps, let’s gather the ingredients and tools you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh chestnuts
• A little water (for soaking)
• Salt (optional, for seasoning)

Tools:

• A sharp knife
• An air fryer
• A cutting board

Step-by-Step Guide to Roasting Chestnuts in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Choose the Right Chestnuts

When picking chestnuts for roasting, look for those that are firm, shiny, and without any mold or cracks. Fresh chestnuts should feel heavy for their size, indicating they have plenty of moisture inside. 

If you’re unsure, give the chestnut a gentle squeeze—if it feels soft or has any give, it may be past its prime.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential as it ensures the chestnuts roast evenly and helps them develop that perfectly roasted flavor.

If you’re using a digital air fryer, simply set the temperature using the display panel, making it easier to adjust the heat as needed. Some models even have a preset option for roasting nuts, so check your manual to see if that’s available.

Step 3: Score the Chestnuts

This step is crucial—before roasting, you’ll need to make an “X” or a slit on the flat side of each chestnut with a sharp knife. Scoring allows the steam to escape during cooking, preventing the chestnuts from bursting in the air fryer. Be careful when cutting, as the shells can be tough, but this step ensures they roast properly and are easier to peel later.

Step 4: Soak the Chestnuts (Optional)

Some people prefer to soak the chestnuts in water for about 20 minutes before roasting. Soaking helps soften the shells slightly and may make peeling easier after roasting. It’s an optional step, but worth considering if you find peeling chestnuts difficult.

Step 5: Arrange the Chestnuts in the Air Fryer

Once the chestnuts are prepped, place them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer with enough space between them for the air to circulate. If you’re using a double basket air fryer, you can divide the chestnuts between the two baskets to ensure even cooking without overcrowding.

Step 6: Roast the Chestnuts

Roast the chestnuts in the air fryer for about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on their size. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or use tongs to turn the chestnuts so they roast evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the shells start to peel back and the chestnuts have a golden-brown color.

Step 7: Let the Chestnuts Cool and Peel

Once the chestnuts are roasted, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. While they’re still warm, start peeling the shells off. If you’ve scored them properly, the shells should come off easily, revealing the soft, nutty interior.

Step 8: Season and Serve

You can enjoy the chestnuts as they are, or sprinkle them with a little salt for extra flavor. Roasted chestnuts are perfect on their own, but they also make a great addition to salads, stuffing, or holiday side dishes.

Choosing the Right Air Fryer for Roasting Chestnuts

Not all air fryers are created equal. When selecting an air fryer, it’s important to choose one with enough capacity and power to roast chestnuts efficiently. A digital air fryer provides more control over temperature settings, which is ideal for precision cooking. If you frequently cook for a family or larger groups, a double basket air fryer offers the versatility to roast multiple batches at once.

When shopping for an air fryer, it’s also worth considering the air fryer manufacturer. Reputable brands tend to offer more durable models with better features, such as non-stick baskets and easy-to-clean components. Investing in a high-quality air fryer manufacturer ensures you’ll get the best results when roasting chestnuts and other foods.

Conclusion

Roasting chestnuts in an air fryer is a simple and efficient way to enjoy this holiday treat. With just a few basic steps, you can achieve perfectly roasted chestnuts every time. Whether you’re using a digital air fryer for precision or a double basket air fryer for larger batches, you’ll love how easy it is to make this festive snack at home.

So, grab some fresh chestnuts, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy the delicious aroma and flavor of roasted chestnuts this season!