Air Fryer Apple Fritters are a modern twist on a classic fall dessert. Traditionally deep-fried, these fritters get their golden crispness from the air fryer, cutting down on oil while still delivering all the cozy flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in soft, pillowy dough.
They’re simple to make, full of apple chunks, and finished with a sweet glaze or cinnamon sugar. These fritters are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—and since they’re made in the air fryer, they’re a bit lighter but just as satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Fold in diced apples.
Step 2: Shape the Fritters
- Line air fryer basket with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of batter (about 2 tbsp each) into the basket, leaving space between fritters. Flatten slightly.
Step 3: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Cook fritters for 6–8 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
Step 4: Glaze
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip or drizzle fritters with glaze while warm.
Variation
- Cinnamon Sugar Fritters: Instead of glaze, toss warm fritters in cinnamon sugar.
- Caramel Apple Fritters: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
- Nutty Fritters: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to batter.
- Pumpkin Spice Fritters: Replace nutmeg with pumpkin pie spice.
- Mini Fritters: Drop smaller spoonfuls for bite-sized treats.
Cooking Notes
- Don’t overcrowd air fryer basket—work in batches for even cooking.
- Fritters puff slightly, so leave room between each one.
- Apples should be finely diced so they bake evenly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with coffee or apple cider.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Perfect addition to holiday breakfast buffets.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.
Tips
- Use firm apples for best texture.
- Test fritters with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re done.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
Nutritional Info (per fritter, approx. 10 fritters)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 100mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Air Fryer Apple Fritters ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare batter and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Cook when ready.
Q2: Can I freeze apple fritters?
- Yes, freeze cooked fritters for up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer.
Q3: Can I use self-rising flour?
- Yes, but omit the baking powder and salt.
Q4: Do I have to peel the apples?
- Peeling is recommended for smooth texture, but skins add a rustic style.
Q5: Can I bake instead of air fry?
- Yes, bake at 375°F for 12–14 minutes until golden.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Apple Fritters are golden, fluffy, and filled with sweet cinnamon apples. Quick to prepare and lighter than traditional deep-fried versions, they’re perfect for cozy fall mornings, festive gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a sweet apple treat. Glazed or dusted with sugar, they’re sure to be a hit!