Air Fryer Apple Fritters

These Air Fryer Apple Fritters are a quick and cozy dessert packed with tart apples and coated in a sweet glaze. With no need for deep frying, they’re lighter than traditional fritters but still full of comforting fall flavor. Perfect for a fast treat, a brunch table, or even a grab-and-go breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No deep frying – Made in the air fryer for a healthier twist on the classic.

• Ready in 15 minutes – Fast, easy, and ideal for last-minute dessert cravings.

• Packed with apples – Every bite bursts with fresh apple flavor.

• Perfectly spiced – The apple pie spice gives each fritter a warm, autumnal aroma.

• Easy glaze – Just two ingredients for a shiny, sweet finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fritters:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend like Cup4Cup)

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice (or cinnamon)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• ½ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups finely chopped apple

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice.

3. Add the beaten eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir just until there are no streaks of flour or sugar left.

4. Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they’re evenly mixed into the batter.

5. Line your air fryer basket with parchment or an air fryer liner.

6. Drop ¼-cup scoops of batter onto the liner, spacing them slightly to avoid sticking.

7. Air fry for 5 minutes, then flip each fritter and cook another 4–5 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.

8. Transfer fritters to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining batter.

9. While fritters cool slightly, mix powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, adding more milk as needed to reach your desired glaze consistency.

10. Drizzle glaze over the warm fritters and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 fritters
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Calories per fritter: Approx. 180–200 kcal (estimated)

Variations

• Add nuts: Stir in ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

• Cinnamon sugar topping: Skip the glaze and roll warm fritters in cinnamon sugar.

• Extra fruity: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter.

• Caramel drizzle: Replace glaze with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

• Pumpkin spice twist: Swap apple pie spice with pumpkin spice for a fall flavor fusion.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Place fritters in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes, or microwave for 20–30 seconds. Glaze after reheating if frozen or stored without it.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple?

Yes! Tart apples like Granny Smith work great for contrast, but you can use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or any firm apple.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional, but it creates a smoother texture in the fritters. Leave the peel on if you prefer more texture.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

You can try baking at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. They may not be as crisp but will still taste great.

How do I know when the fritters are done?

They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make and cook the batter fresh, as the apples may release moisture and make the batter too wet if it sits too long.

What type of milk should I use?

Any milk works—dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend like Cup4Cup or Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour.

Do I need to use an air fryer liner?

A liner helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier, but parchment paper with holes poked in it works too.

Can I skip the glaze?

Definitely. They’re still delicious without it or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar instead.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Apple Fritters are the perfect way to enjoy a warm, homemade treat in minutes. With tender chunks of apple, cozy spices, and a simple glaze, they’re sure to be a hit whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. Quick, easy, and bursting with fall flavor—this is one sweet recipe you’ll come back to again and again.