There’s something magical about the first cold breeze of autumn — the scent of rain-soaked leaves, scarves returning from the back of the closet, and, of course, the irresistible aroma of roasted chestnuts. For many, that smell instantly recalls narrow Italian streets and vendors huddled behind steaming carts, calling out “caldarroste, calde calde!” But what if you could bring that same warmth into your home, without the smoke or the wait?
That’s where chestnuts in the air fryer come in — the perfect balance between tradition and modern convenience. In less than 20 minutes, you’ll have perfectly roasted, aromatic chestnuts: crisp on the outside, creamy and sweet on the inside. The air fryer recreates the charm of the old street fire in a clean, simple, and quick way. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket on a Sunday afternoon or preparing a cozy snack for guests, these golden chestnuts capture the essence of Italian autumn with every bite.
Ingredients
- 500 g fresh chestnuts (large, smooth shells preferred)
- Water (for soaking)
- A pinch of salt (optional, enhances sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for extra aroma)
Note: Choose firm, shiny chestnuts without cracks. If possible, use Italian varieties like Marroni di Cuneo or Castagne di Montella for authentic flavor.
Preparation
- Score the chestnuts: With a sharp knife, cut a small cross on the rounded side of each chestnut. This helps them cook evenly and prevents bursting.
- Soak for softness: Place the scored chestnuts in warm water for 20–30 minutes. This softens the shell and makes peeling easier.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and let it heat for a few minutes.
- Dry and season: Drain the chestnuts, pat them dry with a clean towel, and, if you wish, toss them lightly with a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Air fry to perfection: Place the chestnuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the shells open and the inside turns golden brown.
- Rest and peel: Once done, wrap the hot chestnuts in a clean kitchen towel for 5 minutes. The steam will help loosen the skins.
- Enjoy warm: Peel and serve immediately — soft, nutty, and sweet, the way roasted chestnuts should be.
✨ How to make the perfect chestnuts in the air fryer: Avoid overcrowding the basket; the air needs to circulate freely for even roasting.
Tips and Variations
- Sweet twist: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup once peeled, and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon.
- Savory touch: Toss with butter, rosemary, and a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet appetizer.
- Oven alternative: No air fryer? Roast at 200°C (390°F) for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Pro tip: If you’re cooking for a crowd, keep batches warm in a covered bowl lined with a towel — they’ll stay soft and fragrant.
Storage
Store leftover chestnuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 180°C (355°F) or warm gently in the oven wrapped in foil. Avoid microwaving, which can make them rubbery.
Curiosity
Did you know chestnuts were once called “bread of the poor” in Italy? In mountain villages, they sustained generations through winter when grains were scarce. Today, they’re a nostalgic delicacy — a humble ingredient reborn through modern kitchen magic.
ted chestnuts while listening to “Autunno” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons—a timeless soundtrack for the golden evenings of fall.
