Air fryer apple fritters topped with cinnamon and sugar

Air Fryer Apple Fritters

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why make this recipe

Air Fryer Apple Fritters are quick, light, and easy. You get warm apple bits in a soft dough with a sweet glaze. They cook fast in the air fryer and use less oil than frying. This is a good treat for breakfast or a simple snack.

introduction

This recipe makes soft fritters with real apple pieces and a simple glaze. The batter uses applesauce and a little butter for good flavor and less fat. If you like other air fryer fritters, try this air fryer zucchini fritters recipe to see another easy snack idea.

how to make Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Follow the steps below. Work simply and keep the batter light. Scoop the batter into the air fryer and cook until golden. Finish with a powdered sugar glaze and serve warm.

Ingredients :

  • 1 ½ cups (222g) flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (128g) unsweetened applesauce
  • ¼ cup (60ml) milk of choice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large apple, peeled and diced
  • Glaze:
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk of choice

Directions :

  1. Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
  2. In another bowl, mix sugar with melted butter. Add applesauce, milk, and vanilla extract.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the diced apples.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray the basket.
  5. Drop ¼-cup scoops of batter into the basket, spacing well. Air fry for 5–6 minutes until golden.
  6. Mix powdered sugar with milk to create glaze. Drizzle over warm fritters before serving.

how to serve Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Serve the fritters warm. Drizzle the glaze just before serving. You can add a dusting of cinnamon or a small scoop of ice cream for a dessert version. They go well with coffee or tea.

how to store Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Cool the fritters to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to crisp them up. Do not leave glaze on if you plan to store long; add glaze when serving.

tips to make Air Fryer Apple Fritters

  • Do not overmix the batter. Mix until combined to keep fritters tender.
  • Use a firm apple so the pieces hold shape when cooked.
  • Spray the air fryer basket lightly to prevent sticking.
  • Space the fritters so air can circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
  • If batter is too thick, add a little milk, a teaspoon at a time.

variation (if any)

  • Add ¼ cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  • Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon zest for bright flavor.
  • Swap the apples for pears for a mild change.
  • For a richer glaze, stir in a tablespoon of melted butter.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the batter and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Fold in the apple just before cooking.

Q: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A: Yes. Place scoops on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes or until golden.

Q: Can I use sweetened applesauce?
A: You can, but reduce the added sugar a little if you like a less sweet fritter.

Q: How do I keep fritters from getting soggy?
A: Do not stack them while warm. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispness.

Conclusion

If you want a richer glaze idea, see this recipe for an alternative: Air Fryer Apple fritters with Brown Butter Glaze.