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Reheating soup dumplings, xiao long bao, is one of those kitchen tasks that sounds simple but goes wrong fast. In real home kitchens, I’ve seen dumplings split open, dry out, or lose all their precious broth just from using the wrong heat or skipping one small prep step.
This guide will show you how to reheat soup dumplings in an air fryer so they’re hot, tender, and still full of soup, not shriveled or exploded. This method is tested in everyday air fryers, works for frozen or refrigerated dumplings, and is designed for beginner cooks who want reliable results the first time.
Why Reheating Soup Dumplings Is Tricky
Soup dumplings aren’t like regular dumplings. What most beginners don’t realize is that the soup inside is actually set gelatin when cold. It needs gentle heat to melt back into liquid.
Common problems I see at home:
- Too much heat → wrappers crack and soup leaks out
- Dry air → wrappers toughen and shrink
- No moisture → filling overheats before the soup melts
The air fryer can work beautifully, but only if you control heat, moisture, and timing.
Why This Air Fryer Method Works
In real kitchens, this method succeeds because it balances three things:
Controlled Heat
Lower air fryer temperatures (300–325°F) reheat gently instead of shocking the dumpling.
Added Moisture
A light mist of water creates steam, preventing the wrapper from drying before the soup melts.
Elevated Airflow
Using parchment or a perforated liner lets hot air circulate without sticking or tearing the dumplings.
This approach mimics steaming inside the air fryer, which is why the soup stays where it belongs—inside the dumpling.
Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Leftover or frozen soup dumplings (xiao long bao)
- Clean water (for misting)
- Flavorful chicken filling paired with rich, steamy broth
- Delicate dumpling skin crafted for the perfect bite
- Ready in just 12 minutes – no prep required
Tools
- Air fryer (basket or oven-style both work)
- Parchment liner or lightly oiled air fryer tray
- Spray bottle or damp paper towel
- Tongs or chopsticks (gentle handling)
Optional (But Helpful)
- Small heat-safe ramekin of water (extra moisture insurance)
- Food thermometer (for safety check)
Substitutions & Notes
- No spray bottle? Wet your fingers and flick water lightly over the dumplings.
- No parchment? Lightly oil the basket to prevent sticking, but be extra gentle when removing.
How to Reheat Soup Dumplings in an Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Temperature: 325°F (165°C)
- Time: 2–3 minutes
From testing, starting with a preheated air fryer helps the wrapper warm evenly instead of drying slowly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumplings
- Place dumplings in a single layer
- Leave space between them—crowding causes uneven heating
- Lightly mist the dumplings with water (don’t soak)
Visual cue: The wrapper should look slightly damp, not wet or shiny.
Step 3: Add Moisture Protection
- Line basket with parchment or
- Place a small ramekin of water in the corner (especially helpful for oven-style air fryers)
This creates steam during reheating and protects the wrapper.
Step 4: Reheat Gently
- Temperature: 325°F
- Time:
- Refrigerated dumplings: 4–5 minutes
- Frozen dumplings: 6–8 minutes
Halfway through:
- Open the basket
- Gently flip only if needed
- Add another light mist of water if wrappers look dry
Aroma cue: You should smell warm ginger and pork—not toasted dough.
Step 5: Rest Before Eating (Important!)
Remove dumplings and let them sit 1 minute.
This allows:
- Soup to fully liquefy
- Internal temperature to equalize
- Reduced risk of soup burns
Step 6: Check Doneness & Safety
- Wrapper: soft, slightly translucent
- Filling: hot to the center
- Internal temp (optional): 165°F (74°C)
If unsure, add 30–45 seconds at 300°F.
Pro Tips & Best Practices (From Real Kitchens)
Use Lower Heat Than You Think
High heat is the #1 reason soup dumplings burst in air fryers.
Handle Like They’re Fragile (They Are)
Use tongs gently—pinching can rupture the wrapper.
Reheat Once Only
Repeated reheating dries the wrapper and ruins texture.
Eat Immediately
Soup dumplings don’t hold well after reheating—serve right away.
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Skipping water misting
- Using 375°F+
- Overcrowding the basket
- Reheating straight from frozen at high heat
FAQ: Real Questions Home Cooks Ask
- Why did my soup dumplings explode in the air fryer?
The heat was too high or there wasn’t enough moisture. Lower the temperature and mist with water next time.
- Can I reheat frozen soup dumplings in an air fryer?
Yes. This method works well—just extend cooking time to 6–8 minutes and don’t rush the heat.
- Should I use foil instead of parchment?
No. Foil blocks airflow and increases the risk of uneven heating and sticking.
- Why did my dumplings turn dry and chewy?
The wrapper dried out. You need more moisture and slightly lower heat.
- Is reheating soup dumplings in an air fryer safe?
Yes, as long as the internal temperature reaches 165°F and they were stored properly.
- Can I stack soup dumplings?
No. Stacking causes uneven heating and tearing.
- When NOT to Use an Air Fryer for Soup Dumplings?
This method isn’t ideal if:
- Dumplings are already torn or leaking
- You need to reheat a large batch quickly
- You want the softest possible wrapper texture
In those cases, steaming is more forgiving.
Alternative Reheating Methods (Quick Comparison)
Steamer (Best Overall Texture)
Pros: Soft wrapper, safest for soup Cons: Requires setup, longer time
Microwave (Only If Necessary)
Pros: Fast Cons: Uneven heating, soup loss risk Tip: Use a damp paper towel and low power
Pan + Lid
Pros: Good control Cons: Easy to overcook Tip: Add water and steam, don’t fry
Conclusion
Once you understand how to reheat soup dumplings in an air fryer, it stops being risky and starts being reliable. Gentle heat, added moisture, and patience are what keep the soup inside and the wrapper tender.
In everyday home kitchens, this method consistently delivers hot, juicy dumplings without special equipment or advanced skills. Follow the steps, respect the dumplings, and you’ll get results you can trust, safely and confidently.
If you’re reheating leftovers, cooking for one, or just avoiding washing a steamer basket, this air fryer method earns its place in your routine.