Best Air Fryer Apple Fritters Recipe

These air fryer apple fritters are one of my favorite go-to treats when I want something sweet, comforting, and fast. They’re filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apple pieces and air-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I love how they capture all the charm of a classic fair-style fritter—but without the deep frying and mess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I keep coming back to this recipe because it’s so simple and satisfying. Here’s why I think it’s worth making again and again:

• Healthier than traditional fritters: The air fryer gives me that crispy finish I love, without drowning the fritters in oil.

• Quick and easy: I can whip these up in 30–40 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert or weekend breakfast.

• Simple ingredients: Most of the ingredients are already in my pantry—flour, sugar, spices, and milk. I just grab a couple of apples and I’m set.

• Perfect texture: The inside is fluffy and studded with soft, juicy apple bites, while the outside gets that golden crisp from the air fryer.

• All-season treat: These taste amazing in the fall, but I honestly make them all year round.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup milk (any kind)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 1/2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about ¼-inch pieces)
1 tablespoon butter, melted

For the glaze:
1/2 cup icing sugar (powdered sugar)
1–2 teaspoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the apple mixture
I peel and dice my apples into small ¼-inch cubes and toss them with the lemon juice to keep them fresh and slightly tangy.

Step 2: Mix the batter
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, I mix the milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter. Then I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Finally, I fold in the chopped apples.

Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
I preheat my air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3–5 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, you can skip this step.

Step 4: Scoop the fritters
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, I drop small mounds of batter (about 2 tablespoons each) onto a parchment-lined or lightly greased air fryer basket. I space them out slightly so they cook evenly.

Step 5: Air fry the fritters
I air fry them for 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. When they’re golden brown and cooked through, I remove them and let them cool slightly.

Step 6: Make the glaze
In a small bowl, I whisk together the icing sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla until smooth. I drizzle this over the warm fritters and let it set for a few minutes.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 fritters and serves 3 to 4 people.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: Around 30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts: I sometimes mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

• Try other fruits: Pears or firm peaches make a nice twist if I’m low on apples.

• Make it gluten-free: A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in place of all-purpose flour.

• Add spice: I’ve added a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for deeper fall flavor.

• Top with cinnamon sugar: Instead of a glaze, I sometimes toss the fritters in cinnamon sugar right after air frying.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 3–4 minutes to restore the crispness. The microwave works too, but the texture will be softer.

FAQs

What type of apple works best?

I usually use Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady—they hold their shape and give a sweet-tart balance. I avoid softer apples like Red Delicious, which can get too mushy.

Can I prep the batter in advance?

Yes, I sometimes mix the dry and wet ingredients separately ahead of time and combine them just before cooking. I don’t recommend letting the full batter sit too long, as the baking powder can lose its lift.

How do I avoid soggy fritters?

I make sure the apples are chopped small and well-drained if extra juicy. Also, cooking in batches helps avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes. The glaze adds sweetness and shine, but these fritters taste great on their own or with just a dusting of powdered sugar.

Do I need parchment in the air fryer?

Not always, but it helps with cleanup and prevents sticking. If I use it, I make sure to cut it to size and don’t cover all the vents to keep the air circulating.

Conclusion

These air fryer apple fritters are one of those quick desserts I turn to when I want something warm, sweet, and comforting without the hassle of deep frying. They come out golden and crisp, with a tender center full of cinnamon apples—and that vanilla glaze is the perfect final touch. Whether I’m making a weekend breakfast treat or a simple dessert, they never disappoint.

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