Save These quick and easy apple fritter rings capture all the spiced sweetness of a fairground favorite in a light air-fried version that takes just minutes. With a crisp golden shell and warm apple inside these treats are perfect for an afterschool snack or a cozy dessert with friends.
I made these for a last minute dessert when friends stopped by and we devoured them right out of the fryer still warm and fragrant.
Ingredients
- Apples: Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith so they hold their shape and add a perfect tart crunch
- Pancake mix: An easy shortcut that ensures you get a puffy tender batter every time Look for a high quality mix for best flavor
- Milk: Use dairy or go dairy free with oat or almond milk for a lighter touch
- Cinnamon sugar: Adds irresistible sweet spice and classic fritter flavor Use good quality cinnamon for a bold finish
- Oil spray: Helps achieve a crispy golden surface without deep frying Use a neutral spray that will not overpower the apples
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- Whisk pancake mix and milk together in a mixing bowl until completely smooth with no lumps This will ensure your rings fry up tender and evenly coated
- Dip and Coat Each Ring:
- Take each apple slice and dip it fully in the batter Allow the excess to drip off by gently rocking the ring This gives a delicate coating that crisps perfectly in the air fryer
- Spray the Air Fryer Basket:
- Use oil spray to coat the air fryer basket where the rings will sit This prevents sticking and creates a crisp exterior
- Arrange and Spray:
- Set the battered rings in a single layer in the basket making sure they do not touch Lightly spritz the tops with more oil spray for best browning
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for six to eight minutes Flip each ring carefully at the halfway mark so both sides puff up and color evenly The batter should look golden and set
- Finish with Cinnamon Sugar:
- As soon as you pull the hot rings from the basket toss them in cinnamon sugar while the coating is still warm This sets the sweet spice onto each bite
Save My favorite part is that first hit of warm cinnamon sugar and juicy apple A batch of these reminds me of autumn fairs with my sister when we would sneak crispy fritters before dinner and laugh at sticky fingers
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a sealed container at room temperature for up to one day but these are best warm right from the air fryer If you want to reheat them pop back in the air fryer for one or two minutes to bring back crispness
Ingredient Substitutions
Try pears in place of apples for a delicate twist Gluten free pancake mix makes this friendly for those with sensitivities Flavored plant-based milks such as vanilla almond milk add sweetness and depth
Serving Suggestions
Dip in caramel sauce or drizzle with honey for extra indulgence Stack on pancakes or waffles at brunch for a festive touch For a party serve with small scoops of vanilla ice cream
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Apple fritters show up at state fairs and autumn festivals across the United States Crisp apples are a mainstay as cooler weather rolls in making these rings a cozy snack for fall or winter
Seasonal Adaptations
Use peaches or firm plums in summer Offer a pumpkin spice version in October Add citrus zest to the batter for spring freshness
Success Stories
Many friends have been surprised how well these rings satisfy a fried donut craving with so much less oil A neighbor told me her kids now ask for them every Saturday morning These disappear fast at potluck gatherings so make a double batch if you want extras
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze the air fried rings once fully cooled Lay in a single layer on a baking sheet then store in a freezer bag Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for three to four minutes until warm and crispy
Save Golden crisp, warm, and spiced—these apple fritter rings will become your new favorite snack. Share them straight from the air fryer for the best taste and smiles all around.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples works best for fritter rings?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape and provide a tart-sweet flavor.
- → How do I keep the batter from sliding off the apple rings?
Pat the apple slices dry before dipping and let excess batter drip off for even coating.
- → Can I make these rings gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free pancake mix and plant-based milk for an allergen-friendly version.
- → What is the best way to serve these apple rings?
Serve them warm, optionally drizzled with caramel sauce or a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar.
- → How long do air-fried apple rings stay crispy?
They are crispiest right after cooking, so enjoy promptly for best texture and flavor.