Introduction
There’s a late‑afternoon hush in my kitchen when the apples start sizzling in the air fryer — it smells like porch swing conversations and warm hugs. Pull up a chair and let these simple fritters remind you of Sunday visits and a grandmother’s soft smile. For a little extra baking friendship, try pairing them with this easy air fryer cookies recipe.
Why make this recipe
Because life’s sweetest moments often come from the simplest comforts: a crisp outside, tender apple center, and a dough that mixes in one bowl. These Air Fryer Apple Fritters are quick, forgiving, and perfect for when you want a taste of home without a whole afternoon in the kitchen.
How to make Air Fryer Apple Fritters
This batter is rustic and kind — fold in the apples and let the air fryer do the crisping. You’ll feel like you’re standing at a Southern counter, stirring with a wooden spoon and hearing the kettle hum. If you’re nostalgic for uncomplicated desserts, you might also like a simple 3-ingredient apple cake that keeps the same cozy feeling.
Ingredients:
2 cups of diced apples, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Air fry for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your sweet, crispy fritters!
How to serve Air Fryer Apple Fritters
Serve them warm and simple — on a china plate or a paper towel, it doesn’t matter. A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes them feel like a holiday even on a Tuesday. They’re lovely with a hot mug of coffee or a cold glass of buttermilk, and best eaten with loved ones gathered close.
How to store Air Fryer Apple Fritters
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer keeping, refrigerate up to 4 days and reheat briefly in the air fryer or oven to bring back the crisp. To refresh, a quick 3–4 minutes at 325°F will do the trick.
Tips to make Air Fryer Apple Fritters
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp so they stay tender but don’t turn mushy.
- Dice apples uniformly for even cooking.
- Don’t overmix the batter — a few lumps keep the fritters light and tender.
- Leave space between spoonfuls in the basket so each fritter gets golden all around.
- If you prefer a glaze, whisk powdered sugar with a teaspoon of milk until smooth and drizzle over warm fritters.
Variations (if any)
- Brown Butter Glaze: Brown a little butter on the stove and mix with powdered sugar for a nutty, cozy finish.
- Spiced Mix: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, fragrant twist.
- Add‑ins: Fold in a handful of chopped pecans for a Southern crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: You can, but thaw and drain them well first — excess moisture makes the batter too loose and the fritters less crisp.
Q: Do I need to flip the fritters in the air fryer?
A: Flipping halfway through (around 5–6 minutes) helps them brown evenly, especially if your air fryer has hot spots.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes — substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend and check texture; you may need to adjust the milk by a tablespoon or two.
Q: How large should each spoonful be?
A: Aim for tablespoon‑to‑tablespoon‑and‑a‑half sized dollops so they cook through without staying doughy inside.
Q: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A: Absolutely — bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes on a greased sheet until golden.
Conclusion
These little fritters are like a warm story told over the kitchen table — quick to make and rich with memory. If you want to try a fancier finish, peek at this lovely take on Air Fryer Apple fritters with Brown Butter Glaze – Wine a Little, Cook …. Or, for another easy version, take a look at Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters – Just As Tasty.
Come by the kitchen any time — there’s always a warm plate and a story waiting.
Air Fryer Apple Fritters
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Air fry for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with powdered sugar, honey, or vanilla ice cream.