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Air fryer apple fritters, healthy and easy dessert.
Lady Maria

Air Fryer Apple Fritters

Enjoy the classic flavors of apple fritters without the guilt! This recipe uses an air fryer to create a healthier version of the traditional deep-fried treat. These fritters are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 175

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk dairy or non-dairy
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • Cooking spray
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk for glaze
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Peeler
  • knife
  • Cutting board
  • spoon
  • wire rack

Method
 

  1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (or honey).
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Gently fold the diced apples into the batter until they are evenly distributed.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the preheated air fryer basket, leaving some space between each fritter. Do not overcrowd the basket.
  8. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through.
  9. While the fritters are cooking, prepare the glaze (if using). In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  10. Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
  11. Drizzle the fritters with the glaze. Alternatively, dip the tops of the fritters into the glaze for a more even coating.
  12. Serve the air fryer apple fritters warm and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, don't overmix the batter to avoid tough fritters. Preheat the air fryer for even cooking. Store cooked fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes. Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter for a warmer flavor. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be folded in for added texture.