Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters Recipe Crispy Quick Dessert

The Sweet Whisper of Autumn: Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Do you ever find yourself craving that comforting taste of fresh-baked goodness, but dread the messy, oil-splattered aftermath of deep-frying? I know I do. Especially as the leaves begin to turn, and the crisp autumn air whispers promises of cozy evenings, my mind drifts to the sweet, spiced aroma of old-fashioned apple fritters. But let’s be honest, standing over a bubbling pot of hot oil isn’t exactly my idea of a peaceful afternoon, especially with little hands often tugging at my apron. That’s why I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite transformations: Air Fryer Apple Fritters.

For years, apple fritters felt like a special occasion treat, a distant memory from childhood trips to the bakery, or perhaps a daring, once-a-year kitchen adventure. They were always, in my mind, synonymous with a heavy, oily indulgence. But what if I told you that you could capture all that golden-crisp exterior, that soft, apple-studded interior, and that comforting cinnamon glaze, without a single drop of deep-frying oil? It’s not magic, my friends, it’s the wonder of the air fryer. This recipe isn’t just about making fritters; it’s about reclaiming a beloved classic, making it accessible for busy weeknights, lazy Sunday mornings, or even just a spontaneous craving for something sweet and meaningful. It’s about creating those beautiful, apple-picking festival memories right in your own kitchen, with less fuss and more joy. This rendition allows you to embrace the simple pleasure of warm, spiced apples nestled in a tender dough, all while keeping your kitchen (and your conscience!) much lighter. Gone are the days of wrestling with hot oil; instead, we welcome the ease and efficiency of modern cooking, allowing us to spend more time savoring each bite and less time cleaning up.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Apple Fritters

There’s something truly special about a homemade treat, isn’t there? Especially when it tastes like it took hours of effort, but in reality, came together with surprising ease. These Air Fryer Apple Fritters are precisely that kind of recipe. They’re a little hug in every bite, a symphony of warm spices, tender apples, and that irresistible, slightly crisp exterior. But beyond the sheer deliciousness, there are so many reasons to fall in love with this recipe, making it a staple in your kitchen, just like it has become in mine.

First, and perhaps most importantly, is the crunchy Air Fryer Apple Fritters texture. We all adore that satisfying chew and delightful crispness that deep-fried fritters offer, but honestly, who wants all that oil? The air fryer works its magic, circulating hot air to create that perfect golden-brown crust without submersion in fat. It’s a remarkable transformation, delivering all the texture we crave in a much lighter package. My husband, Jonah, a man who appreciates a good fried pastry when he photographs it, was initially skeptical. But one bite, and he was converted. He loved capturing the golden hue and the hint of crisp that the air fryer gives these beauties.

Then there’s the sheer convenience. These are truly 10-minute Air Fryer Apple Fritters in terms of hands-on prep, allowing you to whip up a batch on a whim. No need for elaborate setups or long proofs. This means you can have a warm, spiced treat ready for breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or even a simple, comforting dessert after dinner. For me, as a busy mom, any recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss is a winner. It means more time for storytelling with my kids, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee.

The familiar, comforting flavors are another huge draw. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg transports you straight to an autumn orchard or a bustling farmer’s market. It’s a classic flavor profile that evokes nostalgia and warmth, a culinary embrace that reminds you of simpler times. Plus, these aren’t just for fall; I often find myself craving them in the dead of winter, a little ray of sunshine and spice to brighten a grey day.

And speaking of accessibility, this air fryer apple fritter recipe is wonderfully forgiving. If your dough cracks a little, it’s just proof you’re making it by hand, a testament to the home-cook’s touch. The instructions are kind, encouraging you to embrace the process, not just the outcome. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to nail these; just a home cook with a little curiosity and a craving for something delicious.

Finally, the versatility is fantastic. Want to experiment? You absolutely can! Think vegan Air Fryer Apple Fritters with a flax egg or a different plant-based milk, or perhaps some Air Fryer Apple Pie Fritters with a touch of allspice. You can even make them Gluten-Free Air Fryer Apple Fritters by swapping out the flour. It’s a recipe that invites playful experimentation, something I absolutely adore in my kitchen. It allows you to tailor the flavors to your mood, your diet, or whatever bountiful apples you found at the local market. These fritters aren’t just food; they’re an experience, a moment of joy, easily brought to life in your own home.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Gathering your ingredients is the first step in painting this delicious picture. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Air Fryer Apple Fritters:

• For the Fritters:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for gluten-free Air Fryer Apple Fritters)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended for that warm, cozy flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy for vegan Air Fryer Apple Fritters)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 medium apples, cored, peeled, and finely diced (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work wonderfully)
  • Non-stick cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)

• For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy), adjust for desired consistency
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions & Notes:

• Apples: If you don’t have fresh apples, you can use canned diced apples (drained well) in a pinch, but fresh provides the best texture and flavor.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste. A pinch of allspice or cardamom could also be lovely.
• Milk: Any milk you have on hand will work. Whole milk will give a slightly richer batter, but skim or plant-based milks are perfectly fine.
• Sweetener: For a less sweet fritter, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the batter.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Making these fritters is a joyful journey, a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly comforting. It’s less about precise measurements and more about feeling the dough, smelling the spices, and anticipating the golden-brown outcome. Think of it as a dance between intuition and instruction, where every step brings you closer to that first warm bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Apples: First things first, let’s get those apples ready. Take your medium apples, wash them gently, then get to peeling and coring. I love using an apple corer for this; it makes the job so quick. Once cored and peeled, finely dice them. We want small pieces so they cook through beautifully and are evenly distributed throughout your Air Fryer Apple Fritters. Place them in a small bowl and set aside. This is where the perfume of apple begins to fill your kitchen, a gentle promise of what’s to come.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined. This ensures that every bite of your crunchy Air Fryer Apple Fritters has an even distribution of flavor and rise. My grandmother always said, “Dry ingredients first, Katya, to wake them up.”

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, lightly beat your large egg. Then, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they’re smoothly combined. The vanilla adds that layer of warmth, drawing you deeper into the scent of home baking.

4. Combine Wet and Dry & Add Apples: Now for the fun part! Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The key word here is “just.” A few lumps are perfectly fine; in fact, they often lead to a more tender fritter. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough fritters – and we want soft, tender ones! Once the batter is mostly combined, gently fold in your diced apples. Ensure they are evenly distributed. This fragrant mix is almost ready for its air fryer transformation.

5. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Take a moment to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that characteristic crispy exterior. While it’s heating up, lightly spray your air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures your Air Fryer Apple Fritters release easily.

6. Shape and Air Fry Apple Fritters: Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls (about 2-3 tablespoons each) of the apple fritter batter into the preheated and greased air fryer basket. Don’t crowd the basket; you’ll likely need to work in batches, leaving enough space between each fritter for the hot air to circulate. This is how we get those perfectly crispy Air Fryer Apple Fritters.

7. Cook to Golden Perfection: Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking times can vary based on your air fryer model and the size of your fritters, so keep an eye on them. You want them puffed up, golden, and smelling absolutely divine. This is the stage where your kitchen fills with the scent of autumn.

8. Prepare the Glaze: While your fritters are air frying, let’s make that luscious glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add more milk, a tiny bit at a time, until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. It should be thick enough to cling to the fritters but thin enough to flow.

9. Glaze and Serve: Once your fritters are perfectly golden and cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch any drips). While they are still warm, lightly drizzle the glaze over each Air Fryer Apple Fritters. The warmth of the fritters will help the glaze set just slightly, creating a beautiful, sweet finish. Serve them immediately, alongside a cup of coffee or tea, and savor every glorious bite. These are perfect for a cozy morning or a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.

Pro Tips & Variations For Perfect Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Making these Air Fryer Apple Fritters is a joy, and with a few tricks up your sleeve, you can elevate them from delicious to absolutely unforgettable. Think of these as little nudges from me, Katya, to make your kitchen journey even more delightful.

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for tender fritters. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until the flour streaks disappear. A few lumps are good! Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tougher, less delicate fritters. We want soft, almost cake-like interiors for our Air Fryer Apple Fritters, not chewy ones.

2. Proper Apple Dicing is Key: Aim for finely diced apples, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch cubes. If the pieces are too large, they won’t soften sufficiently in the air fryer, and the fritters might crumble. Too small, and you lose that distinct apple texture. This optimal size ensures the apples cook evenly and blend perfectly into the batter. For those in Air Fryer apple fritters Dallas, consider using local apple varieties from nearby orchards for an extra touch of seasonal goodness.

3. Work in Batches for Best Crunch: Resist the urge to overcrowd your air fryer basket. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, and if the basket is too full, that air can’t reach all surfaces evenly. This results in steamed, rather than crispy, fritters. Cook your crunchy Air Fryer Apple Fritters in batches, leaving plenty of space between each one for that beautiful golden exterior to form.

4. Tailor Your Glaze Consistency: The glaze is all about personal preference. For a thinner, drizzly glaze, add a little more milk. For a thicker, more opaque coating, use less. You can even create a thicker glaze for Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes. A good way to test is to dip a spoon in; if it coats the back of the spoon nicely, you’re good to go.

Variations to Spark Joy:

• Spice It Up: Beyond cinnamon and nutmeg, consider adding a pinch of allspice, ground cloves, or even a tiny amount of cardamon. For a bolder flavor, some Air Fryer Apple Fritters with Custard Dip would be divine, or even a hint of ginger for warmth.
• Citrus Zest Magic: A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the batter can brighten the flavors beautifully, offering a lovely counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples and glaze.
• Nutty Goodness: Fold in a handful of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor. This creates a wonderful contrast with the soft apples.
• Savory Twist (Hear me out!): While these are sweet fritters, don’t forget the versatility of your air fryer. For a savory treat, you could explore options like Crispy Air Fryer Beef Empanadas.
• Make Them Vegan: Easily adapt this recipe for vegan Air Fryer Apple Fritters by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of a chicken egg, and plant-based milk and butter. The texture will still be wonderfully tender.
• Gluten-Free Version: Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure, or add ¼ teaspoon if it doesn’t. You’ll still get delicious Gluten-Free Air Fryer Apple Fritters.
• Different Fruits: While apples are classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Pears, peaches, or even bananas (for banana Fritters mentioned as a competitor keyword!) could work beautifully with similar spices.
• Embrace the Holiday Spirit: For Air Fryer Apple Fritters for Valentine’s Day, you could add a little red food coloring to the glaze or shape them into heart shapes (though this might be trickier given the soft batter) for a festive touch. Or, for a more autumnal feel, consider exploring Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists as an alternative!

Serving Suggestions for Your Air Fryer Apple Fritters

These golden nuggets of apple-spiced goodness are quite delightful on their own, fresh from the air fryer and glistening with their sweet glaze. But like any good story, they can be enhanced by the company they keep! Think of these serving suggestions as ways to elevate the experience, turning a simple treat into a memorable moment, whether it’s a bustling family breakfast or a quiet moment of self-care.

1. A Simple Cup of Warmth: My absolute favorite pairing is a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a comforting mug of spiced tea. The slight bitterness of the coffee or the subtle warmth of the tea creates a beautiful balance with the sweet, spiced fritters. It’s the perfect way to start a crisp autumn morning, or to enjoy a moment of quiet reflection, perhaps while still wrapped in your coziest blanket.

2. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent dessert, especially if you’ve chosen to make slightly larger Air Fryer Apple Fritters, serve them warm with a scoop of good quality vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm, spiced fritter is a sensation that is utterly irresistible. It marries “home comfort” with “curious flavors” in the best possible way.

3. Whipped Cream & Caramel Drizzle: A dollop of freshly whipped cream and a generous drizzle of homemade (or store-bought) caramel sauce can transform these fritters into a bakery-worthy treat. The light, airy cream and the rich, buttery caramel add layers of texture and flavor that sing alongside the apples and cinnamon. This is a showstopper for unexpected guests or a special family brunch.

4. Yogurt or Custard Dip: For a slightly healthier or more breakfast-appropriate option, serve your Air Fryer Apple Fritters with a side of plain Greek yogurt, perhaps sweetened with a touch of maple syrup and a dash of cinnamon. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, a small bowl of warm vanilla custard makes for an incredible custard dip, adding a silky richness that complements the fritters beautifully.

5. Seasonal Fruit Compote: During autumn harvest, I often make a quick berry or pear compote. A spoonful of warm, tangy fruit compote served alongside these fritters can add a lovely burst of freshness and a beautiful contrast in texture. It’s like bringing the orchard right to your breakfast table.

These fritters are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re offering them as a simple easy breakfast Air Fryer Apple fritters treat or elevating them to a delightful dessert, they are sure to bring smiles and satisfied sighs.

Storage & Reheating for Your Air Fryer Apple Fritters

It’s a rare day when a batch of these glorious Air Fryer Apple Fritters lasts beyond the morning they’re made. But, on those occasions when you find yourself with a few extra (perhaps you made a double batch, bless your generous heart!), knowing how to store and reheat them properly means you can enjoy that comforting taste again without compromising on texture.

Storage:

• At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a day, you can store your glazed Air Fryer Apple Fritters in an airtight container at room temperature. The glaze might get a little sticky, but the fritters will still be delicious. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent them from sticking together too much.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, up to 3-4 days, place the cooled fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If they are glazed, the glaze will firm up and become quite sticky, but this doesn’t affect the taste. If you haven’t glazed them yet, store them plain and glaze just before serving for the best experience.
• Freezing Air Fryer Apple Fritters: Yes, you can freeze them! This is a fantastic option for make-ahead Air Fryer Apple Fritters. Once completely cooled, place unglazed fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2-3 months. Glazing after thawing and reheating is highly recommended.

Reheating:

The trick to reheating is to bring back that lovely crisp exterior without drying out the interior.

• Air Fryer (Recommended): This is by far the best method to revive your Air Fryer Apple Fritters. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the fritters in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the exterior is crisp again. If frozen, you can air fry directly from frozen at 325°F (160°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Oven: You can also reheat them in a conventional oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place fritters on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp.
• Microwave (Use with Caution): While possible, the microwave is generally not recommended as it tends to make the fritters soft and somewhat chewy, losing their delightful crispness. If you must use it, heat for very short bursts (15-20 seconds) until just warm.

No matter how you store or reheat them, a warm Air Fryer Apple Fritters is a little taste of comfort, reminding you of the joy you created in your kitchen.

FAQ about Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Curiosity is a wonderful thing, especially in the kitchen! It leads to discoveries, tweaks, and personalized perfection. Here are some common questions I hear about making these delightful Air Fryer Apple Fritters, and my answers gathered from years of home cooking and a fair bit of experimentation.

Q1: Can I make the batter ahead of time?

A: I don’t recommend making the batter too far in advance. The baking powder will activate once it comes into contact with the liquid, and letting it sit for too long can result in less rise and a denser fritter. The diced apples can also release moisture, making the batter too wet. For the best crunchy Air Fryer Apple Fritters, mix the batter just before you’re ready to air fry. However, you can certainly prep your diced apples and dry ingredients the day before to save time!

Q2: What kind of apples are best for fritters?

A: For Air Fryer Apple Fritters, I love using a mix of sweet and tart apples to get a balanced flavor. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn offer sweetness, while Granny Smith provides a nice tart counterpoint that prevents the fritters from being overly sweet. Just make sure they’re firm apples that hold their shape well when cooked. Soft, mushy apples won’t give you that delightful apple texture within the fritter.

Q3: My Air Fryer Apple Fritters aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?

A: This is a common concern! The most frequent culprit is overcrowding the air fryer basket. For that genuine “fried” crispness, the hot air needs to circulate freely around each fritter. If you stack or crowd them, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Additionally, ensure your air fryer is preheated properly and that you’re not opening it too frequently during cooking. A good non-stick spray also helps prevent sticking without adding excess oil that could make them soggy. Make sure your apples are finely diced too, as larger pieces can release too much moisture.

Q4: Can I skip the glaze or use an alternative?

A: Absolutely! While the glaze adds a lovely touch of sweetness and moisture, it’s not strictly necessary. If you prefer frosting-free Air Fryer Apple Fritters, they are still wonderfully delicious on their own. You could also dust them with powdered sugar, a cinnamon-sugar mixture, or a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for alternatives. For a healthier option, a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt can even provide a delightful contrast for a more gourmet feel.

Q5: Can I make these in a regular oven if I don’t have an air fryer?

A: Yes, you can! While they won’t have quite the same “fried” texture as air-fried versions (or deep-fried, for that matter), they will still be delicious baked apple treats. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drop spoonfuls of batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. They’ll be more like soft, apple-studded drop biscuits or muffins, but still incredibly comforting. This is a great tip for those searching for Air Fryer Apple Fritters NYC alternatives when an air fryer isn’t available.

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Apple Fritters

There’s a beautiful simplicity in a good apple fritter, isn’t there? It’s a taste that brings you back to childhood, to bustling bakeries, or perhaps to quiet autumn afternoons spent with loved ones. And what I truly adore about these Air Fryer Apple Fritters is how they distill that immense comfort into an accessible, everyday joy. It’s less about flawless technique and more about the love poured into mixing the batter, the anticipation of the spiced aroma filling your home, and that first warm, tender bite.

For me, cooking is so much more than just following a recipe; it’s an act of storytelling, a way to connect with our past, and a means to create new, cherished memories. These fritters, for instance, remind me of my Midwestern upbringing, where fresh apples were a constant of fall, and my Eastern European roots, where hearty, sweet pastries adorned every family table. Adapting them for the air fryer isn’t just about making them “healthier” or “easier”; it’s about making that connection ever more present in our modern, busy lives. It’s about making home cooking a source of discovery rather than intimidation.

Jonah, with his photographer’s eye, always marvels at how the air fryer manages to give them that gorgeous, golden exterior without the mess. And the kids? They just know it tastes like a delicious, apple-filled cloud! Every time we make them, it feels like a small celebration, a reminder that the everyday kitchen rituals can be moments of profound joy and self-care. It’s a treat that speaks to the heart, warming you from the inside out, reminding you that food truly is language.

So, I truly hope you’ll give these Air Fryer Apple Fritters a try. Let the fragrance of cinnamon and apple fill your home, gather your family around the kitchen counter, and savor the simple pleasure of a homemade treat. If your dough is a little rustic, or your glaze a little drippy, that’s just proof of a life well-lived and a kitchen well loved.

I’d be so delighted if you shared your experience in the comments below  did you add extra cinnamon? Try a different apple variety? What memories did these fritters stir for you? Your stories are just as much a part of this recipe as the ingredients themselves. And if you love this recipe, please save it to your Pinterest boards so others can discover this little piece of kitchen magic too! Until next time, happy cooking and happier eating.

Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Crispy, spiced apple fritters made in an air fryer for a healthier, oil-free treat that captures the comforting essence of traditional apple fritters with less mess and effort.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 fritters

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer,
• – Mixing bowls
• – Spatula
• Apple Corer

Ingredients

  

For the Fritters

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for gluten-free Air Fryer Apple Fritters
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional, but highly recommended for that warm, cozy flavor
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk dairy or non-dairy for vegan Air Fryer Apple Fritters
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (or vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples cores, peels, and finely diced (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work wonderfully)
• non-stick cooking spray for the air fryer basket

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk dairy or non-dairy, adjust for desired consistency
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Prep Your Apples: First things first, let’s get those apples ready. Take your medium apples, wash them gently, then get to peeling and coring. I love using an apple corer for this; it makes the job so quick. Once cored and peeled, finely dice them. We want small pieces so they cook through beautifully and are evenly distributed throughout your Air Fryer Apple Fritters. Place them in a small bowl and set aside. This is where the perfume of apple begins to fill your kitchen, a gentle promise of what’s to come.
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined. This ensures that every bite of your crunchy Air Fryer Apple Fritters has an even distribution of flavor and rise.
• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, lightly beat your large egg. Then, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they’re smoothly combined. The vanilla adds that layer of warmth, drawing you deeper into the scent of home baking.
• Combine Wet and Dry & Add Apples: Now for the fun part! Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The key word here is “just.” A few lumps are perfectly fine; in fact, they often lead to a more tender fritter. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough fritters – and we want soft, tender ones! Once the batter is mostly combined, gently fold in your diced apples. Ensure they are evenly distributed.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Take a moment to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that characteristic crispy exterior. While it’s heating up, lightly spray your air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures your Air Fryer Apple Fritters release easily.
• Shape and Air Fry Apple Fritters: Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls (about 2-3 tablespoons each) of the apple fritter batter into the preheated and greased air fryer basket. Don’t crowd the basket; you’ll likely need to work in batches, leaving enough space between each fritter for the hot air to circulate.
• Cook to Golden Perfection: Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking times can vary based on your air fryer model and the size of your fritters, so keep an eye on them. You want them puffed up, golden, and smelling absolutely divine.
• Prepare the Glaze: While your fritters are air frying, let’s make that luscious glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add more milk, a tiny bit at a time, until you reach your desired drizzling consistency.
• Glaze and Serve: Once your fritters are perfectly golden and cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch any drips). While they are still warm, lightly drizzle the glaze over each Air Fryer Apple Fritters. The warmth of the fritters will help the glaze set just slightly, creating a beautiful, sweet finish.

Notes

These Air Fryer Apple Fritters are a little hug in every bite, a symphony of warm spices, tender apples, and that irresistible, slightly crisp exterior. This 10-minute recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Keyword Air Fryer, Apple, Easy, Fall, Quick