Best Mini Deep Fryers – 2021 Round-up

| Last Updated: October 23, 2022

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People are adopting healthy eating habits these days, but there are still some cravings for deep-fried food that you can't let go. If you are looking forward to buying a deep fryer but are thinking twice since you don't have much space on your kitchen counter, we are here for your rescue.

Mini deep fryers are compact, efficient, and are equipped with advanced technology that makes them highly multi-purpose. For this reason, many people invest in them to cook different kinds of fried food.

In this article, you will learn about Mini Deep Fryers and its features, pros, and cons.

Our Top Picks for Mini Deep Fryer

  • Strong and durable
  • Large cooking area
  • Easy to use
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  • Temperature control
  • Versatile deep fryer
  • Safe for user
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  • Best for the Money
  • Heats up quickly
  • Easy to clean
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Comparison of the Best Mini Deep Fryers

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Made from strong and long-lasting materials
  • Comes with a large cooking surface
  • It is quite easy to use
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  • Easy adjustable thermostat controls
  • Can be used for many different cooking options
  • Comes with the cool touch feature
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  • Best for the Money
  • Has the fast heating up capability
  • Uses non-stick die cast materials
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  • Has a removable lid for easy cleaning
  • Comes with a large cooking space
  • Will heat up quickly to desired cooking temperatures
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  • It has a large cooking space
  • Will heat up to high cooking temperatures
  • Made from high-quality stainless steel
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When Would I Use a Mini Deep Fryer?

You might be wondering why you should buy a mini deep fryer. Well, here are some great uses:

Midnight Cravings

Cooking or preparing food at night in front of the stove can be difficult and a lot of hassle. Therefore, having a mini deep fryer can help you prepare food for your sleepovers and involve in midnight munching without any huge mess or hassle in the kitchen.

Time-Saving

You can save a lot of time preparing your dinner or lunch in this appliance. A deep fryer is a great kitchen companion to prepare entree or main dishes for any occasion. It creates less mess that you need to clean after, therefore it saves a lot of time.

Convenience

This machine is extremely convenient to use, unlike other pans, pots, and ovens, etc. Cleaning it is a hassle-free job. You don't have to worry about greasy fingers or a messy kitchen. Many units even contain odor filters, so you don't have to worry about the stinky kitchen.

Independence

If your kids love fried food, then this appliance can save you money and time. Mini fryers are easy to handle and are safe as well. So, it's a lot safer and even fun for your kids to use them. These units are ideal for parents and people with pets due to their convenience and safety.

Why Did These Mini Deep Fryers Make Our List?

With multiple options available on the market, it is hard to judge the best mini deep fryer. So, here are some elements that we examined before forming our list for the best products.

Capacity

The first thing to consider before buying this appliance is the capacity. You should opt for one that allows you to make the desired amount of food. There are many mini deep fryers available on the market with good capacities. Match their size and capability with your usage and expectations.

Ease of Use

These units are user-friendly and simple to operate. However, some units have complicated controls and settings that cannot be understood by novices. Therefore, the products on our list are user-friendly and feature easy-to-use controls and buttons.

Safety Features

This machine has its dangers, and many people don't like to keep it at their home. However, numerous appliances offer a couple of safety features so you can enjoy good food without any danger at home. Features like rubberized feet and handles ensure safety.

Cleanliness

To save yourself from spending hours cleaning this appliance, you can find machines with non-stick materials and dishwasher-safe parts. Furthermore, some units on our list can be dismantled completely, which makes it easy to clean.

Willy's Top Picks - Best Mini Deep Fryers

Here are the best mini deep fryers:

  1. Presto 05420
  2. Presto 05470
  3. Cuisinart CDF-100

Review of the Best Mini Deep Fryers

Finding a high-quality yet compact deep fryer is challenging. However, you can take help from the reviews below and purchase the ideal unit. 

Best Overall:
Presto 05420

Presto 05420 FryDaddy Electric Deep Fryer,Black

Pros

  • Ideal for a variety of foods
  • Offers a two-year warranty
  • Only needs four cups of oil
  • Comes with a draining scope
  • Made of stainless non-stick steel

Cons

  • No indicator light
  • Does not include a frying bucket

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers love the fact that this machine comes with a simple ON/OFF button. The unit reaches the desired temperature quickly, and the food inside gets fried without requiring additional temperature settings. As a result, many beginners and first-timers used it and loved it.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Presto Frydaddy model is made of non-stick materials, which means food doesn't stick anywhere. Therefore, cleaning it will never be a trouble because there will be a minimal amount of food or oil residue. The stainless steel container requires less cleaning time. It is also rust and tarnish-proof, adding good value to your money.

With the secure lid, you don't have to worry about refilling and emptying the machine after every use. This is because the lid saves the oil from odors, contamination, and spill. It also has a large plastic scoop that can be used as a strainer. With the advanced mechanism, the exterior of the appliance remains cool and protects the user from burns.

Bottom Line

To conclude, this is the best model on our list that features a good-looking interior and advanced functionality. The large handle makes this appliance safe, and special features such as the plastic spoon are easy to use.

Runner-up:
Presto 05470

Presto 05470 Stainless Steel Electric Deep Fryer, Silver

Pros

  • Super compact and round design
  • A vented cool-touch exterior and lid
  • Anodized and non-stick aluminum interior
  • Features a convenient long-handled frying basket
  • Built-in spatter-free screen to keep the oil odor free

Cons

  • No oil temperature indicator

What Recent Buyers Report

Most of the buyers of this model are either couples or small families. Families with three or four members find this model ideal since it is compact and does not require much oil for frying. Some buyers were able to reuse the oil in this unit and saved on their money as well. People liked the adjustable thermostat, which gave them complete control over the unit.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This unit's exterior is made of premium-quality stainless steel, which is heat-resistant, durable, and a nearly flawless oil tank. The interior is composed of aluminum, which does not transfer heat outside, allowing this machine to prepare food in just ten minutes.

Moreover, the machine is rust-proof and covered with multiple non-stick layers. This non-stick nature allows a mess-free user experience.

The light indicator indicates that the machine is in operation. The thermostat immediately reaches a temperature of 390° Fahrenheit, which is suitable for deep frying. We find this quick temperature rise functionality really impressive and suitable for heavy-usage purposes.

Bottom Line

If you don't have enough space and want something compact, then the Presto 05470 will turn out to be an ideal option for you. The best part is that it takes only eight inches of space on your kitchen countertop.

Best for the Money:
Cuisinart CDF-100

Pros

  • Quick heat up and quick frying
  • Outstanding cool exterior technology
  • Easily adjustable analog temperature
  • Has a high-quality non-stick frying basket
  • Stainless steel, sleek, and compact design

Cons

  • Electric cord is quite short
  • No lid window to see inside

What Recent Buyers Report

The odor filter was the most famous feature in this unit, as it kept the odor away from the oil. Another factor loved by buyers is that this unit is dishwasher safe. It disassembles and assembles quickly in a minute and is also user-friendly for novice buyers.

Why it Stands Out to Us

With an impressive capacity of holding one-liter oil and the fast heat-up feature, this unit stands out to us. The advanced internal heat bars make this unit a remarkable appliance to have in any kitchen. Moreover, it is 100% insulated for the safety of the user.

The non-stick basket keeps the food crispy without any mess and oil splash. It takes under three minutes to bring the oil to the desired temperature.

Furthermore, the unit can disconnect electricity when the oil is heated up and connect again when the temperature of oil lowers. This feature makes sure the food inside gets proper and even heat.

Bottom Line

Cuisinart is a well-known and trustworthy home appliance brand. This model won't let you down thanks to its amazing quality construction. It can prepare ¾ pounds of food at once. For added convenience, it also has a red indicator light.

4. Hamilton Beach (35021)

Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer, Cool Touch Sides Easy to Clean Nonstick Basket, 8 Cups / 2 Liters Oil Capacity, Black

Pros

  • Quick heat up and frying
  • Can hold up to three liters of oil
  • Non-stick interior for easy cleanup
  • Cool exterior with a smart ready light
  • Viewing window and efficient basket drain design

Cons

  • Plastic lid doesn't close tightly
  • Does not come with an adjustable timer

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers report that with this machine, they could keep an eye on their food and take it out when it reached the desired doneness. Moreover, the transparent window keeps away the fear of any oil splash, making it kid-friendly. Buyers with kids reported that they don't have to worry about hot exterior since the sides of this appliance always remain cool.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Featuring a spacious oil tank, this appliance has the capacity of two liters of oil, which means that your food will be prepared at a lightning-fast speed. The advanced heating technology cooks food and reduces oil consumption by 80%.

The heat can easily be adjusted, allowing the user good control over how well-cooked they want their food to be. There is also ready-light indicating if the oil is ready or hot enough to be used. Cleaning this unit is an easy task with this fryer since the manufacturer has used non-stick materials for construction.

Bottom Line

Hamilton Beach 35021 is an outstanding and compact deep model with multiple features. The power-saving mode is bound to cut down on utility bills and give you peace of mind. Furthermore, the unique lid design allows you to drain the food without lifting the lid.

5. Elite Gourmet EDF-3500

Elite Gourmet EDF-3500 Electric Immersion Deep Fryer. Removable Basket, Timer Control Adjustable Temperature, Lid with Viewing Window and Odor Free Filter,Stainless Steel,3.5 Quart / 14 Cup

Pros

  • Fries 23 lbs of food per batch
  • Handling capacity of 14 Cups
  • Power and ready indicator lights
  • Heating element can be removed
  • Stainless steel body guarantees easy cleaning experience

Cons

  • Can't be moved while in operation
  • Heating element needs to be serviced regularly

What Recent Buyers Report

Several positive reviews and reports support this unit's quick cook time and easy-to-clean design. According to buyers, it roughly takes around 15-20 minutes to heat up properly. They liked that the unit is low-maintenance and has a self-maintenance advanced technology.

Why it Stands Out to Us

For those looking for a compact machine to fit on their small kitchen countertop, this unit is the ideal pick. It features a small container that is quite deep and can be used to fit cooked or uncooked food while doing other preparations.

Handling this fryer is just a piece of cake as you can adjust the temperatures using the knob. There are also indicator lights that inform you when the heating filament is ready. It can be used by kids as well; however, adult supervision is advised.

Cleaning this appliance is fairly straightforward as well. The basket comes off, and you have direct access to the container. You can clean it using any liquid soap you want, and the sealed container walls would prevent any liquid damage to the electrical components.

Bottom Line

To sum up, if you're looking for a mini deep fryer that performs well and is easy to operate, then this Elite Gourmet model is a great pick. It has all the necessary features to make it a perfect pick for your deep frying needs.

What Do I Need To Know Before Buying a Mini Deep Fryer?

There are many things you need to be aware of when buying a mini deep fryer. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes with varying functionalities. However, we've gathered some major points that'll help you judge, which is a good, worthy product!

Capacity

You'll have to take into account the capacity of the fryer. Suppose you have a small family or live alone, then a 14-cup capacity would do fine for you. However, if you're someone who has parties every now and then, you might want to consider having a unit with more capacity.

Heating Time

No one likes to wait more than 10-15 minutes to prepare their food. Deep Fryers are notorious for taking more time than mini deep fryers. You should always look for the heating period on your selected product; the lesser, the better.

Budget

The last factor of utmost importance is your budget. These appliances can cost you from $30 to $100, which is why you should decide the amount you are willing to spend. Remember, great quality does not always have to come with a big price tag.

Pros and Cons of Mini Deep Fryers

Everything has its positives and negatives. Some of the pros and cons of mini deep fryers are given below. Let’s have a look!

Pros

Following are the pros:

Easy to Use

Frying in a deep fryer is quite easy. All you have to do is place your food in the basket inside the hot oil.

Fast Cooking

These units ensure faster cooking. Fries, chicken, and fish are the most common food cooked in this appliance. The quantity and size of these foods might be small, which is why when they are dipped in hot oil, it is ready in a few minutes.

Better Taste

Food that is deep-fried tastes better. A deep fryer makes the food crispy from the outside while it stays tender and juicy from the inside. It saves you from spending your hard-earned dollars by dining in a fast-food restaurant.

Cons

On the other end, some cons you will come across include:

Hot Oil

You need to heat up the oil every time you fry food in a deep fryer. If this hot oil splashes on your hand, it will cause a lot of pain.

Oil Wastage

These appliances need a huge amount of cooking oil, even compact ones. This oil will probably end up in water drainage when it is no longer usable. This can result in an environmental threat and cost you more in the long-term as well.

How to Clean a Mini Deep Fryer

Cleaning a mini deep fryer at first might sound a bit hard, but it's really easy. You have to take a few precautions first and then clean it just like any other appliance. We've gathered steps to help you clean your product.

  1. Make sure your unit isn't connected to any electrical outlet. Always unplug it before cleaning it. Otherwise, there's a severe risk of electric shock.

2. Remove the basket from the fryer and place it in your sink. You can also use a dishwasher. Clean the frying basket thoroughly with soap and let it dry.

3. Now take a separate tin or can and pour all the oil from the fryer into it. Make sure there's no oil left in the container.

4. Next, remove any leftover food particles from inside the container. Make sure the tool you use here doesn't damage the container walls.

5. Put liquid soap inside and scrub it well. Make sure all the residue oil is removed using the soap. Once cleaned thoroughly, fill the container with hot water and let it sit for about an hour.

6. Rinse the container and let it dry.

Conclusion

The idea of picking any one product from a variety is a little challenging. But with this guide, you will find the one that is ideal for you.

Having this appliance in your kitchen will ease your work if you like or need fried meals frequently. We hope all the points and discussions about mini deep fryers above have helped you pick one for yourself.

People Also Ask

At this point, your mind is clouded with many questions. The detailed reviews above may not give you all the answers you need. For this purpose, this section has some frequently asked questions.

How Much Oil is Needed For a Mini Deep Fryer?

As compared to full-sized deep fryers, mini-sized units require less oil to function. Most of these machines are designed to reduce oil consumption as much as possible. However, in most models, you'll need a liter of oil to get started.

How Heavy is a Mini Deep Fryer?

These fryers are known for their portability, especially their relatively low weight thanks to the small compact design. Most mini deep fryers weigh around four to six lbs without including oil and frying basket.

How Big is a Mini Deep Fryer?

A mini deep fryer can accommodate a single serving of French fries or fried nuggets. Don't expect it to handle a large amount of food; it doesn't work like its commercial counterparts. Most models are big enough to fry 20lbs worth of food.

How Long to Wait For Mini Deep Fryer to Be Ready?

Good-quality models don't take much time to heat up properly, which falls to their smaller size and efficient heating filaments. You can expect it to heat up in 10 to 20 minutes.

What is a Fry Baby?

"Fry Baby" is a deep fryer design introduced by the brand Presto. Many people claim it to be the first mini deep fryer. The majority of deep fryers out there are inspired by the 'Fry Baby' design in one way or another.

How Hot Does a Mini Deep Fryer Get?

They can reach high temperatures around 350 Fahrenheit to 400 Fahrenheit. A deep fryer needs to hit those temperatures.

Other Fryer Reviews

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Hey there, I’m Will, and I’ve been smoking and grilling for as long as I can remember. I made this blog to help others who are looking for honest and reliable info from someone they can trust. In my own efforts to try to perfect my smoking and grilling skills, I’ve done a lot of research and would like to have it compiled as a resource for others to use. Happy smoking!