Air Fryer Knish

Air Fryer Knish

Cooking a knish in the air fryer is the easiest way to enjoy a warm, flaky pastry with a golden-brown crust and savory filling—without needing to use the oven. Whether it’s potato, spinach, kasha, or meat-filled, the air fryer heats the inside evenly while crisping the outer dough perfectly, delivering deli-style results right at home in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flaky, Golden Crust

The air fryer gives the knish a crisp, bakery-style crust that doesn’t get soggy.

Hot and Hearty Filling

Potato, meat, or veggie—your filling is evenly heated and perfectly soft inside.

No Oven or Microwave Needed

Faster and crisper than traditional reheating methods, with no preheat or baking sheet required.

Perfect as a Snack, Side, or Meal

Knishes are versatile and satisfying anytime of day.

Ingredients

• 1 or more frozen knishes (potato, spinach, kasha, mushroom, or meat-filled)

• Optional:

  • Light olive oil spray for extra crispness

  • Mustard or sour cream for dipping

  • Fresh herbs or seasoning for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and preheat for 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the Knish

Remove knish from packaging. No need to thaw—cook directly from frozen.(Optional) Lightly spray with oil for an extra golden crust.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Place knish in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, leaving space around each one.

• Cook at 370°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through

• For smaller or mini knishes: Check at 10–12 minutes

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Crust should be crisp and golden, and the center should be hot and soft. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Cool & Serve

Let sit for 2–3 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. Slice in half or serve whole.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Leave room between each knish for even crisping.

Flip Gently at the Halfway Point

This helps brown both sides and heats the center evenly.

Use a Liner or Foil (Optional)

Great for catching crumbs or filling leakage, and makes cleanup easier.

Brush with Melted Butter or Oil After Cooking

Adds extra shine and flavor before serving.

What to Serve With a Knish

Classic Sides

• Pickles or Coleslaw – Add a crunchy, tangy contrast

• Soup (like Matzo Ball or Chicken Noodle) – Cozy, deli-style pairing

• Salad with Vinaigrette – Fresh and balanced

Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Brown Mustard or Yellow Mustard – Classic deli option

• Sour Cream or Herbed Yogurt – Cool and creamy

• Gravy or Garlic Aioli – Savory and rich

Creative Add-Ons

• Top with Chopped Chives or Everything Bagel Seasoning

• Slice and Serve on a Platter with Sauerkraut and Relish

• Pair with Eggs for a Brunch-Ready Dish

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat in the Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes, or until warmed through and re-crisped.

Can You Freeze After Cooking?

Yes—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen at 370°F for 10–12 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Air Fry a Knish Straight from Frozen?

Yes—no need to thaw. Just cook as directed and check for doneness.

What Kind of Knish Works in the Air Fryer?

All types—round deli-style, square, potato, meat, veggie, or even stuffed mini varieties.

Do I Need to Add Oil?

It’s optional, but a light spray helps brown the crust for extra crunch.

Best Air Fryer for Knish?

Both basket and oven-style models work well. Just make sure to cook in a single layer for even results.

Make frozen knishes in the air fryer for a crisp, golden crust and warm, savory filling in under 20 minutes. Full cooking instructions, tips, and serving ideas included.