Air fryer vs OTG: Which is the better investment for easy baking recipes?

Baking, like any other art form, needs the right ingredients and tools. To make our lives simpler, today, we have a variety of appliances we can use in our kitchens to cook up delicious treats with ease. That is where air fryers, convection microwaves, OTG ovens, halogen ovens and more come into the picture. But which one will work best? And will it make baking and cooking easier for you? Well, the answer is simple. Pick an easy recipe and use the simplest of appliances. But how do you decide which is the right appliance for you? That’s where we come in. Here is a complete insight into which one will work better for your quick recipes on baking in the kitchen – air fryers or OTG ovens.
Also read: Best air fryer ovens with rotisserie and digital functionality in India 2024: Top 9 picks for a healthy diet.
Selecting the right appliance can be overwhelming. But with the right parameters, you can downsize the options and make an informed decision on what is the right fit for you. Here is an insight on the different features to consider and how they vary from an air fryer to an OTG oven.
Also read: Best Pizza ovens for home: Top 10 options for delicious thin crust delights.

Air fryerAn air fryer is best suited for those who are looking for a quick, energy-efficient option to bake, roast, or fry small portions. It’s ideal for individuals or small families who prefer fast meals with minimal cleanup. If you often bake in small batches or enjoy a variety of quick recipes without the need for a larger baking capacity, the air fryer will meet your needs. Additionally, it’s great for those who value convenience, as many models come with pre-set programs and auto-shutoff features.
OTG ovenAn OTG oven is the better choice for people who frequently bake, grill, or roast in larger quantities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy baking complex dishes like cakes, breads, and pizzas, thanks to its wide temperature range and spacious interior. Families or baking enthusiasts will benefit most from the versatility and capacity of an OTG, as it can handle multiple cooking styles and larger meals. If you prioritise traditional baking performance and don’t mind a longer cooking time, the OTG is the way to go.
Here’s a quick recipe for chocolate chip cookies that can be baked in both an air fryer and an OTG oven:
Ingredients:
1 cup maida / whole wheat flour
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup sugar (regular white/brown/coconut – for a healthy version)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg / replace with a flax egg for a vegetarian version
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
Enjoy your cookies warm with some milk this winter!
Looking for the best oven for baking at home? Check out our buying guide
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Looking for the best oven for baking at home? Check out our buying guide.
An air fryer is generally faster because it uses rapid air circulation, cutting down cooking time. It’s ideal for quick baking and small amounts. An OTG oven, on the other hand, takes longer to preheat and cook, making it slower, especially for larger quantities.
Air fryers are more energy-efficient for small meals and quick cooking tasks, using less power overall. OTG ovens consume more energy, particularly for longer baking times and preheating, and have higher energy use for larger or prolonged tasks.
An OTG oven offers more versatility, handling a wide range of baking needs including cakes, breads, and large batches. Air fryers are more limited and best suited for frying, roasting, and basic baking with smaller portions.
Air fryers are easier to clean with removable, dishwasher-safe parts but require regular cleaning of small components. OTG ovens have more parts to clean, including racks and trays, making maintenance more involved, especially after heavy use.
Air fryers usually have a higher initial cost but lower ongoing energy costs, making them suitable for those who value quick cooking and small batches. OTG ovens have a lower initial cost but can lead to higher energy costs over time, making them ideal for those needing larger capacity and diverse baking options.
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