Preheat the air fryer: Set to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
A hot basket helps the batter set quickly and turn golden.
Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together pancake mix, milk, egg, and vanilla. If using, whisk in the sugar. The batter should be thick but pourable—like cake batter.
If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
Prep the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper made for air fryers. If using parchment, poke a few holes so air can circulate.
Coat the Oreos: Drop each Oreo into the batter, turn to coat fully, then lift with a fork and let excess drip off. You want a full coat, but not gloopy.
Arrange carefully: Place the coated Oreos in the basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between them.
Don’t crowd—work in batches if needed.
Air fry: Cook for 4–5 minutes. Carefully flip, then cook another 3–5 minutes until puffed and golden. Total time varies by air fryer and cookie thickness.
Finish: Transfer to a plate and dust generously with powdered sugar while warm.
Let cool for 2–3 minutes before eating—the centers are hot.
Serve: Enjoy plain or with a quick dip like chocolate sauce, strawberry jam, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.