Name: Toasting Sesame Seeds in Air Fryer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1/2 Cup Sesame Seeds; Air Fryer; Parchment Paper

Toasted sesame seeds in the air fryer will be your next go-to method for achieving the toasty and nutty flavor used in so many delicious meals. It is mess-free, hassle-free, and done in minutes. All you need is your sesame seeds and the air fryer will do all the work.

Toasted sesame seeds are an amazing sprinkling alternative to herbs and spices. Use them to finish off a dish, or to cook with them being the star ingredient. They last long, add flavor to your meals and are so easy to make.

Toasting sesame seeds in the air fryer might sound very involved and tedious but this is far from the truth. It is easy and much quicker than toasting on the stovetop or the oven. All you will need are a few supporting materials like parchment paper and you will be done in minutes.

Ingredients You Will Need

You don’t need many ingredients to make the best toasted sesame seeds in an air fryer. Feel free to use any type of sesame seeds you like.

However, the small and light color will work the best for toasting. They are called til. Black sesame seeds or larger sesame seeds will take longer to toast and the flavor and aroma will be much stronger.

Sesame Seeds
Parchment Paper
Air fryer
Air tight container – for storage. I used a jar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: Prepare the Air Fryer.

Remove the top part of the container (usually the one with the holes). To make the toasted sesame seeds in the air fryer, start by lining the bottom of the air fryer container with parchment paper. This will help with transferring them to a plate later.

STEP 2: Add the Sesame Seeds.

Add your sesame seeds and spread them into a thin layer. It is important that the sesame seeds don’t overlap because they won’t toast evenly and it will reflect in the texture and flavor when you use them.

After that cover the sesame seeds with one more layer of parchment paper and then add the top part of the container. This will ensure the seeds won’t fly all over your air fryer.

They fly because the air fryer is using forced air to distribute the heat. If the seeds are left open they will fly in between cracks and can damage the air fryer. So, don’t skip the parchment paper.

Note: If your air fryer’s container does not come apart line the bottom with parchment paper, layer the sesame seeds, and cover with another layer of parchment paper. Place something a bit heavy on top of the parchment paper to hold it in place. Don’t just leave it on its own because it will fly straight into the heat source and burn. This might do damage to the air fryer or even start a fire so be careful.

STEP 3: Toast the Sesame Seeds.

Start the air fryer and toast the sesame seeds for about five minutes. It is very important to shake the container every minute or so. This will prevent the sesame seeds from sticking to each other and burning on one side. You want them golden-brown and aromatic. Carefully monitor them in the air fryer since the sesame seeds burn very quickly.

STEP 4: Cool Off the Sesame Seeds.

Take them out of the air fryer and transfer them to a plate or flat surface. Again, make sure they are spread into an even layer. This will ensure even cooling. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing if every seed has space to release its aroma into the air.

Once the sesame seeds are at room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. This will help them stay fresh for longer. I keep mine in the pantry since there weren’t any raw ingredients involved throughout the toasting process.

STEP 5: Transfer to a Container for Storage.

Feel free to keep them in the fridge if you feel more comfortable. Just keep in mind that the lower temperature of the fridge will take away some of the aroma and flavor of the sesame seeds over time.

Other Options/Versions of This Recipe?

You can make these toasted sesame seeds in the oven by spreading them on top of a baking sheet or on the stovetop by using a non-stick pan. However, the air fryer is the best and most hassle-free option.

Cooking Times By Air Fryer Model

Every air fryer is different. The chart below contains general information that worked on my air fryer (not listed). Make sure to read the instructions before use. I suggest you start with a smaller amount of sesame seeds so you are able to adjust the temperature and timing.

The way I calculate the time and temperature for toasting is by looking at the oven method. I use the same temperature but reduce the timing in half. It usually works great. If your air fryer is too strong you might have to turn the temperature down.

You will know if you start to smell burned seeds and parchment paper before the aroma of the toasted sesame seeds.

Model	Cooking time	Temperature
Ninja Foodi	3 min	400F
Philips Airfryer XXL (HD9630)	3-5 min	400F
Nuwave Bravo XL Grill	3-5 min	400F
Power XL 2&3 Qt Vortex	5 min	400F
Cuisinart	3 min	450F
Cosori	3min	425F
Breville Smart Oven	3 min	450F

Can You Make/Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?

You can absolutely make these ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in your spice cabinet. They will last for at least several weeks. Over time, the seeds will lose their aroma. Throw them away or use them one last time when that happens.

You can even freeze them and store them in the freezer for up to 12 months. When ready to use, keep outside for several minutes so they thaw to room temperature. Keep in mind that freezing will take away the toasty flavor over time.

What Can I Use Toasted Sesame Seeds On?

You can use them on a variety of dishes. From noodles to fried foods, the world is your oyster here. Toasted sesame seeds add nutty and woody, toasted flavor to your food. You can sprinkle them on top of your dish or incorporate them into the recipe.

Toasted sesame seeds are a delicious option on almost any dish. Add it to salads, breakfast, or save some for a homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning. They will add flavor and texture to your dish and elevate it. I like adding toasted sesame seeds to ramen, meat, and even some pasta.

What to Serve Sesame Seeds With?

Add this delicious and flavorful garnish on rice bowls, fish, or ramen. Sprinkle on the breakfast toast or add to a soup. This tiny but mighty seed will add flavor and texture to your dish in seconds.