Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters are a quick, delicious, and gluten-free twist on the classic treat. Lightly crisped in the air fryer with a tender, cinnamon-spiced apple center, they are perfect for a healthier dessert or breakfast option. With no deep frying required, they come together in minutes with less mess and fewer calories.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
gluten-free all-purpose flourbaking powdersugarground cinnamonpinch of salleggmilkvanilla extractapples (peeled and diced)maple syrup or honey (optional for added sweetness)gluten-free powdered sugar (for glaze)milk or non-dairy alternative (for glaze)
directions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fold in the diced apples gently.
Using a spoon or scoop, form small mounds of the batter and place them in the air fryer basket lined with parchment paper.
Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flip them gently, then cook for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk to form a glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the fritters while warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 10 fritters.Preparation time: 10 minutesAir frying time: 10-13 minutesTotal time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Use pears instead of apples for a seasonal variation.
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar instead of glazing.
Incorporate a dash of nutmeg or apple pie spice for added warmth.
storage/reheating
Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use almond flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Almond flour will change the texture and may not hold together as well. Stick to a gluten-free blend for best results.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, peeling gives a softer texture inside the fritter, but you can leave the peel on for added fiber.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and ensure the glaze is also dairy-free.
Why are my fritters sticking?
Use parchment paper or lightly grease your air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, freeze after cooling. Reheat in the air fryer directly from frozen.
Do these taste like traditional fried fritters?
They are lighter and less greasy but still have the comforting taste of spiced apples and a sweet glaze.
How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown on both sides and firm to the touch. Insert a toothpick to check for doneness.
Can I make them smaller?
Yes, adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they don’t overcook.
What type of apples work best?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
These gluten-free Air Fryer Apple Fritters are a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat with a healthier twist. Perfect for any time of day, they bring the cozy flavor of spiced apples with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Give them a try for a quick, warm, and comforting
Print
Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters Recipe (Gluten-Free)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 fritters
- Category: Breakfast/Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy, pillowy gluten-free apple fritters made effortlessly in the air fryer—sweet, spiced bites perfect for breakfast or snack lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten‑free all‑purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup buttermilk (or dairy‑free milk mixed with ½ teaspoon vinegar)
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped or grated apple (about 1 medium apple; e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter or coconut oil
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray for air fryer basket
- For optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk (or dairy‑free), ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350 °F (175 °C); lightly spray basket with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together gluten‑free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter until combined.
- Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients; gently fold until just combined—do not overmix.
- Fold in chopped or grated apple.
- Use a melon baller or two spoons to drop 8 even fritters into the basket, spacing them apart slightly.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and baked through.
- Remove fritters and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Optional: whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make glaze; drizzle over warm fritters.
- Serve immediately and enjoy while warm and fluffy.
Notes
- Apple variety: tart-firm apples like Granny Smith or Gala hold texture best—peel preference is yours.
- Gluten‑free tip: use a 1:1 blend that contains xanthan gum, or add ¼ tsp xanthan if yours doesn’t.
- Dairy-free swap: substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk + vinegar and butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Doneness check: fritters should be puffed and lightly spring back when gently pressed.
- Make-ahead: prepare batter up to 2 hours ahead; keep refrigerated, then air fry just before serving.
- Storage: refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; warm in air fryer at 325 °F for 3 minutes for crisp outsides.