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How To Cook Handmade Pies: Air Fryer vs Oven Guide

Air Fryer Cooking Tips | Handmade Pie Guide | Perfect Pastry Every Time | British Comfort Food

Air fryers have transformed the way we cook at home — but can they really beat the traditional oven when it comes to cooking a handmade pie?

Whether you love a classic steak and ale pie, a comforting chicken pie or a traditional pork pie, getting the cooking method right is the secret to achieving beautifully golden pastry and a deliciously hot filling.

At The Country Victualler, our handmade pies are created using traditional recipes, quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. We've put together our guide to help you decide whether the air fryer or oven gives the best results.

Discover our full range of handmade pies and savoury favourites:
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Cooking Guide Overview

Best Overall Result: Traditional oven cooking
Fastest Method: Air fryer cooking
Best For: Individual pies, quick lunches and easy family meals
Ideal Pairings: Mash, seasonal vegetables, peas and gravy
Suitable For: Steak pies, chicken pies, savoury pastries and pork pies

Why This Fits The Country Victualler

At The Country Victualler, we believe great British food should fit around modern lifestyles.

While our recipes are rooted in tradition, we understand that today's customers want convenience without compromising on quality.

The popularity of air fryers shows exactly this change. Customers still want authentic flavours, carefully sourced ingredients and handcrafted food — they simply want easier ways to enjoy it at home.

Our handmade pies bring together the best of both worlds: traditional craftsmanship with the flexibility to cook them in the way that works best for you.

Air Fryer vs Oven: Which Is Best For Handmade Pies?

Cooking Handmade Pies In The Oven

The oven remains the classic choice for cooking pies. It allows the heat to gently warm the filling while creating beautifully crisp, golden pastry.

For larger pies, family meals or when cooking several portions together, the oven is usually the best option.

Cooking Handmade Pies In An Air Fryer

Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, helping pastry become crisp quickly. They are ideal when you want a faster cooking method with minimal preparation.

They work particularly well for individual pies, sausage rolls and smaller savoury pastries when you need a delicious meal without waiting for a full oven to heat.

How To Cook A Handmade Pie In An Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to approximately 160-180°C.
Remove all packaging before cooking.
Place the pie carefully into the basket.
Cook until the pastry is golden and the filling is piping hot.
Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Tip

Every air fryer model is slightly different. Check your pie regularly and ensure the centre is thoroughly heated before enjoying.

How To Cook A Handmade Pie In The Oven

Preheat your oven according to the cooking instructions.
Place your pie on a baking tray.
Cook until the pastry is golden brown.
Check the filling is piping hot before serving.
Rest briefly before cutting for the best texture.

CV Kitchen Tips: Perfect Pie Every Time

🥧 Avoid overcrowding an air fryer basket so hot air can circulate
🔥 Always preheat your oven or air fryer for the best pastry results
🍽️ Allow your pie to rest before serving
🥔 Pair with creamy mash, vegetables and rich gravy
❤️ Quality ingredients create the best flavour

The Food Trend: Convenience Without Compromise

One of the biggest changes in home cooking is the demand for convenience without losing quality.

Consumers want food that works around busy lives, but they also want products with provenance, traditional recipes and trusted ingredients.

The air fryer trend perfectly reflects this shift — combining modern cooking technology with traditional favourites.

A handmade British pie proves that heritage food still has a place in today's kitchens.

Ready To Enjoy Our Handmade Pies?

From traditional favourites to artisan pastry creations, explore our range of handmade pies and savoury bakes — made with care and delivered nationwide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook a pie in an air fryer?

Yes. Air fryers are a great way to cook individual pies and savoury pastries, helping create crisp pastry while heating the filling.

Is an air fryer better than an oven for pies?

An air fryer is quicker and convenient for smaller portions, while an oven is ideal for larger pies and family meals.

How long does a handmade pie take in an air fryer?

Cooking times vary depending on pie size and the air fryer model. Always ensure the filling is piping hot before serving.

Why is my pie pastry not crispy?

Make sure your appliance is fully preheated and avoid covering the pastry during cooking. Dry circulating heat helps create a crisp finish.

Can I reheat a pie in an air fryer?

Yes. Air fryers are excellent for reheating pies because they help restore the crisp pastry texture.

Enjoy Proper British Food, Made Simple

Great food doesn't need to be complicated.

At The Country Victualler, we combine traditional recipes, artisan skills and quality ingredients to create food made for sharing.

Whether you choose the oven or air fryer, the most important ingredient is always quality.

What's your favourite way to cook a handmade pie — oven or air fryer?