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Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters: A Healthier Fall Treat for All

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Apple fritters are a fall favorite, but traditional deep-fried versions can be a bit too greasy. That’s where the air fryer comes in! These easy air fryer apple fritters are not only healthier but also quick and simple to make—perfect for beginners. With crispy edges, tender apples, and warm spices, these gluten-free fritters bring all the cozy fall flavors without the mess. Whether you’re craving a snack or a sweet treat to share, these air fryer apple fritters will be a hit!

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups gluten-free flour: Use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. If gluten isn’t a concern, regular all-purpose flour works just as well. Some gluten-free blends may require added binders like xanthan gum, so make sure to check your blend’s ingredients. If you don’t have a pre-made gluten-free flour mix, you can make your own by combining rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour.
  • ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness and moisture. You can substitute coconut sugar or white granulated sugar if needed. For a lower glycemic index alternative, try maple syrup or honey, but note that this will alter the batter’s consistency and you may need to adjust the flour.
  • 2.5 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the fritters rise and become light and fluffy.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the fritters.
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice: Brings warm, aromatic fall flavors to the fritters. You can also use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if you don’t have pumpkin spice on hand. Alternatively, add a bit of ground ginger for an extra kick.

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the batter together and adds richness. For a vegan option, replace each egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground seeds + 2.5 tablespoons water). Let it sit for a few minutes to gel.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness. Vanilla complements the spices in the fritters beautifully.
  • 3 large apples: Use sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for the best flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try Gala or Pink Lady apples. You can also mix different apple varieties for a unique flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and moisture. Coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative can be used for a dairy-free option. You can also substitute with olive oil for a slightly fruity taste.
  • ½ regular lemon (juiced): Prevents the apples from browning and adds a hint of tanginess. The acidity of lemon balances the sweetness of the apples and complements the warm spices.

Optional Glaze

  • ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the fritters with a light drizzle.
  • 1 tablespoon almond milk: Thins the glaze for easy drizzling. Regular milk or other plant-based milks like oat milk also work for this. If you prefer a dairy-free version, almond milk is a great option, but any non-dairy milk will do.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This step ensures even cooking and helps create that signature crisp exterior on the fritters. The air fryer needs to be hot for the fritters to cook quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Toss them with the juice of half a lemon and the melted butter. The lemon juice keeps the apples fresh and bright, while the butter adds a rich, buttery flavor that coats the apples. You can sauté the apples in a pan if you prefer them softened, but in this recipe, we’ll use raw apples to keep things quick and fresh.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice. Mix them thoroughly to ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed. This step is key to making sure your fritters are light and fluffy.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, gently beat the eggs. Stir in the vanilla extract and fold in the prepared apples. The apples will be evenly coated in the egg mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Be sure to fold gently, as overmixing can cause the fritters to turn out dense.

Step 5: Create the Batter

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fritters dense. The batter should be thick but spoonable. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy) to reach a thick, scoopable consistency.

Step 6: Shape the Fritters

Using a spoon or small scoop, portion out heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the preheated air fryer basket. Be sure to leave space between each fritter so they have room to crisp up. Lightly spray the tops with coconut oil spray to encourage golden-brown crispness.

Step 7: Air Fry to Perfection

Air fry the fritters in batches at 400°F for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Use a toothpick to check for doneness—if it comes out clean, they’re ready! If you prefer extra crispy fritters, air fry for an additional minute per side.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Once the fritters are golden brown and crispy, transfer them to a cooling rack and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and almond milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the fritters for a sweet, glossy finish.

Notes

  • Apple Prep Made Easy: To save time, you can use a corer and slicer tool to quickly prepare the apples. This tool removes the core and slices the apples evenly, making your job a breeze.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense fritters. Stir until just combined for the best results. If your batter is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little extra milk.
  • Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Cook the fritters in small batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can result in uneven browning and a soggy texture.
  • Test for Doneness: If you’re unsure whether the fritters are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If the batter sticks to the toothpick, return them to the air fryer for another minute or two.
  • Adjust Consistency: The batter should be thick, but you can always thin it out slightly with a bit of milk if you find it too dense.

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