Air-Fryer Apple Fritters

Bring the beloved flavors of fall to your kitchen with a delicious batch of our air fryer apple fritters. This easy recipe—that preps in just 10 minutes—transforms the classic deep-fried indulgence into a healthier, equally tasty version.

The magic of making apple fritters in the air fryer is the texture—they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Air frying ensures each fritter achieves that characteristic golden crust without the need for excessive oil. They make a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time of the year.

Use Honeycrisp or your favorite sweet-tart apple for the best results—we love Pink Lady.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Fritters

• Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the apple fritter dough and creates a light and fluffy texture.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the dough and helps balance the tartness of the apples.
• Baking powder: Baking powder helps the fritters rise and become light and airy.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warm and spicy notes that pair perfectly with apples.
• Milk: 2% milk adds moisture to the dough and creates a tender texture. It’s also used in the browned butter glaze to thin it out and create the perfect consistency for drizzling.
• Eggs: The addition of eggs bind the ingredients together and adds richness to the fritters.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a subtle tang and helps activate the baking powder.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the apples and cinnamon.
• Apples: Honeycrisp apples provide a sweet and tart flavor to these air fryer apple fritters. You can easily swap them out for your favorite apples instead.
• Cooking spray: Cooking spray ensures the fritters don’t stick to the air fryer basket.
• Butter: Butter is used in the glaze to add richness and a nutty flavor when browned.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Powdered sugar helps to sweeten and thicken the glaze for a smooth finish. Here’s how to make your own powdered sugar using a blender.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the batter

Preheat the air fryer to 410°F. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.

Step 2: Fold in the apples

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, lemon juice and teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened. Gently fold in the chopped apples.

Step 3: Prepare the air fryer basket

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper cut to fit and lightly spritz it with cooking spray.

Step 4: Cook the apple fritters

Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the parchment paper, spacing them 2-inches apart and spritz the tops with cooking spray. Air fry for five to six minutes until golden brown. Flip the fritters and continue to air fry for an additional one to two minutes until the other side is golden brown.

Step 5: Make the browned butter glaze

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook carefully until the butter starts to brown and foam, about five minutes. Remove from the heat and cool slightly.

Step 6: Finish the glaze and serve

Add confectioners’ sugar, milk and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the browned butter. Whisk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters before serving.

Editor’s Tip: Add more confectioners’ sugar for a thicker glaze. For a thinner glaze, add a bit more milk.

Recipe Variations

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for extra warmth to these air fryer apple fritters.
• Add a citrus twist: Replace the lemon juice with orange juice and add some orange zest to the glaze for a citrusy twist to these fritters.
• Add some nuts: Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change the glaze: Swap the browned butter glaze for a simple dusting of cinnamon sugar before serving.

How to Store Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Store any leftover apple fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days after cooling. For  the best results, wait to glaze the fritters until just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Can you freeze air fryer apple fritters?

Yes, you can freeze unglazed air fryer apple fritters. After they’ve cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer before glazing and serving.

Air Fryer Apple Fritters Tips

What are the best apples for apple fritters?

The best apples for fritters have a good balance between sweetness and tartness. The key is to choose a firm apple that won’t turn mushy when cooked. We like Honeycrisp apples for their crisp sweetness that intensifies as they cook. However, Granny Smith, Braeburn or Fuji apples also work well for apple fritters.

How do you know when air fryer apple fritters are done?

Air fryer apple fritters are done when they’re golden brown on the outside and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

How can I make apple fritters crispier?

Ensure the air fryer is preheated and spritz the tops of the fritters with cooking spray before cooking to help achieve a golden and perfectly crispy exterior.