Air Fryer Apple Fritters Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade air fryer apple fritters with this easy baking recipe. These lighter versions of the classic treat use minimal oil while maintaining that perfect crispy exterior and fluffy, apple-filled interior. The simple vanilla glaze adds the perfect sweet finish to these quick treats.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

15 mins

Serves:

8 fritters

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">260g all-purpose flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">50g granulated sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tsp baking powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp ground cinnamon</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp ground nutmeg</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">180ml milk</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">300g apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced into 1cm cubes</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml vegetable oil or cooking spray</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">For the glaze:</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120g powdered sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2-3 tbsp milk</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper (air fryer compatible)</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Medium ice cream scoop or 1/4 cup measure</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This thorough mixing ensures your spices will be evenly distributed throughout the fritters.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add the milk and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine all the wet ingredients.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix – a few small lumps are fine. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour and create tough fritters instead of tender ones.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Gently fold in the diced apples until they're evenly distributed throughout the batter. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for about 3 minutes. While it's preheating, cut parchment paper to fit the bottom of your air fryer basket. The parchment helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Lightly brush or spray the parchment paper with oil. Using an ice cream scoop or 1/4 cup measure, drop portions of batter onto the parchment, leaving space between each fritter as they will expand during cooking. Depending on your air fryer size, you'll likely need to cook in 2-3 batches.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Lightly spray or brush the tops of the fritters with oil. This helps them achieve that golden-brown, slightly crispy exterior that mimics deep frying.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Cook the fritters at 180°C for 7-8 minutes, then carefully flip them over and cook for another 5-6 minutes until they're golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The internal temperature should reach about 88°C when fully cooked.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>While the fritters are cooking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Add more milk a teaspoon at a time if needed to reach a pourable but not watery consistency.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Transfer the cooked fritters to a wire rack to cool slightly for about 3-5 minutes. They should be warm but not hot when glazed.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4>Drizzle or spoon the glaze over the warm fritters, allowing it to naturally spread and drip down the sides. The warmth of the fritters helps the glaze set with a beautiful shine.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4>Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. These fritters are best enjoyed warm, when the contrast between the slightly crisp exterior and tender, apple-studded interior is at its peak. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but may soften over time.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Air Fryer Apple Fritters?

Air Fryer Apple Fritters require all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, milk, eggs, vanilla, diced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), and minimal oil. The glaze needs powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

How to cook Air Fryer Apple Fritters at home?

Learn how to cook Air Fryer Apple Fritters by mixing dry and wet ingredients separately, then combining them and folding in diced apples. Scoop portions onto parchment paper in your preheated air fryer, cook at 180°C for 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown, then drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze while still warm.

Can I use different types of apples for fritters?

Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work excellently for their firmness and flavour, you can experiment with Braeburn, Pink Lady, or Gala apples too. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious as they may become too mushy during the cooking process.

Why are my air-fried fritters not as crispy as deep-fried versions?

Air fryers use circulating hot air rather than oil submersion. Ensure you're lightly brushing oil on both sides of the fritters, not overcrowding the basket, and cooking at the recommended temperature. You might need to increase cooking time slightly or finish with a brief high-temperature blast.

How do I store leftover apple fritters?

Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They will soften over time but can be refreshed in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 160°C. For longer storage, freeze unglazed fritters for up to 3 months and reheat from frozen.

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