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Air Fryer Apple Fritters – Easy Apple Fritter Recipes Without Deep Frying Thumbnail

Air Fryer Apple Fritters

These air fryer apple fritters are a quick and cozy treat packed with warm cinnamon flavor and tender apple pieces. The air fryer creates a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy, all without deep frying. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute desserts, this recipe delivers classic fair-style flavor with a lighter twist. Finished with a smooth vanilla glaze, each bite feels homemade and comforting. Serve them warm for breakfast, enjoy as an afternoon snack, or treat yourself to an easy dessert that’s simple to make and guaranteed to satisfy sweet cravings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • - For the apple fritters
  • 1½ cups plain flour
  • 2 firm apples peeled, cored, and chopped into small ¼-inch cubes
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup whole milk
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • - For the glaze
  • 3 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar sifted

Method
 

Step 1: Mix the dry ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until everything is evenly blended. Set this bowl aside—this will be your base.

    Step 2: Whisk the wet ingredients

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined.

      Step 3: Bring the batter together

      Create a small well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the wet ingredients, followed by the melted butter. Stir gently until a thick batter forms and no dry flour remains. Avoid overmixing.

        Step 4: Prepare the air fryer

        Preheat your air fryer to 375°F if your model requires it. Line the basket with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

          Step 5: Air fry the fritters

          Scoop out four level ¼-cup portions of batter and place them into the lined basket, leaving space between each one. Air fry at 375°F for 8 minutes. Carefully flip each fritter, then cook for another 3 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer the fritters to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to cool slightly. Repeat with the remaining batter.

            Step 6: Make the glaze

            In a medium bowl, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Stir in the melted butter to finish the glaze.

              Step 7: Glaze and serve

              Once the fritters are slightly cooled, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing it to coat the sides. Place them back on the wire rack and let the excess glaze drip off. Serve warm and enjoy while they’re fresh.

                Notes

                Substitution Ideas

                • Flour: Self-rising flour works—just omit the baking powder. For gluten-free fritters, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (texture may vary slightly).
                • Milk: Any milk will do, including almond, oat, soy, or reduced-fat milk. Buttermilk adds extra richness.
                • Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. Avoid softer apples that break down too much.
                • Lemon juice: Swap with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar using the same amount.
                • Vanilla: Vanilla paste or powder works well. Almond extract is another option—use half the amount.
                • Powdered sugar: Out of powdered sugar? Blend regular sugar until fine and powdery.

                Common Air Fryer Mistakes to Avoid

                Getting the batter texture right is key. Too runny, and the fritters will spread and stick; too thick, and they’ll turn dense. Aim for a thick, scoopable batter similar to muffin batter.
                Avoid overcrowding the basket. Leave about 2 inches between fritters so hot air can circulate and crisp them evenly. Pat the chopped apples dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture, and spray the basket lightly between batches. Flipping halfway ensures even browning on both sides.

                What to Serve with Apple Fritters

                These fritters shine as both breakfast and dessert. Pair them with hot coffee or spiced chai in the morning, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert. Feeling indulgent? Add caramel sauce, cinnamon sugar, or whipped cream on top.

                Storage Tips

                Room temperature: Store cooled fritters in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
                Freezing: Freeze unglazed fritters in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Glaze them fresh after reheating for best results.
                Reheating: Thaw frozen fritters overnight, then reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 1–2 minutes. For day-old fritters, a quick 15-second microwave warm-up works well.

                Final Thoughts

                Air fryer apple fritters deliver everything you love about the classic treat—warm spices, tender apples, and a sweet glaze—without the mess of deep frying. They’re quick, comforting, and perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.