Air Fryer Apple Fritters were my solution after one too many greasy, heavy batches from deep frying. The first time I tried them in the air fryer, they spread too much and stayed pale. After testing this three ways, with different batters, apple sizes, and temperatures, I discovered that a thicker scoop-style batter and 360°F gave the best texture. Then I cracked the code by lightly spraying the tops for better browning. Now they come out golden on the outside, soft with tender apple chunks inside, and ready in just minutes.
Why This Air Fryer Apple Fritters Recipe Works
Air Fryer Apple Fritters give you that classic bakery-style crisp exterior without a pot of oil. Most top recipes cook between 350–370°F for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway to promote even browning. The circulating heat helps set the batter quickly while keeping the inside moist.
What makes this version reliable is the thicker batter consistency, it prevents spreading and helps the fritters hold their shape. Small apple cubes soften perfectly without turning mushy. A quick glaze while still warm creates that lightly crisp shell on top. The result is a lighter fritter with caramelized edges and sweet apple pockets in every bite.
Timing for Air Fryer Apple Fritters
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Fritters
These pantry staples come together quickly.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Add-In:
- 1 cup finely diced apple (about 1 medium apple, peeled)
Simple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Apple Fritters in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until a thick batter forms.
- Fold in the diced apples evenly.
- Line the air fryer basket with perforated parchment paper. Lightly spray with oil.
- Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of batter into the basket, leaving space between each fritter.
- Lightly spray tops with oil for better browning.
- Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 5–6 minutes, flip gently, then cook another 4–6 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Check doneness: centers should feel firm and reach about 200°F (93°C) internally.
- Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm fritters.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apple Fritters
- Dice apples small: Ensures they soften fully.
- Use firm apples: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold texture best.
- Don’t overcrowd: Leave space so air can circulate.
- Flip carefully: Use a spatula to avoid breaking.
- Adjust heat if needed: If browning too fast, reduce to 350°F (175°C).
- Thicker batter works best: Too thin will spread and flatten.
Storing and Reheating Apple Fritters
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed fritters for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Variations:
- Add ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for deeper spice flavor.
- Mix in chopped pecans for crunch.
- Swap glaze for maple icing.
- Add a pinch of brown sugar for richer sweetness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Apple Fritters are one of those treats that feel bakery-worthy without the mess. The crisp edges, soft apple centers, and simple glaze make them perfect for fall mornings, or anytime you want something warm and sweet in a hurry.
