Name: Gluten-Free Apple Fritters Made Easy in Air Fryer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled & diced; 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp cinnamon; 1 egg; ¼ cup milk (dairy or plant-based); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Olive oil spray or cooking spray; 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting); Optional: cinnamon-sugar mix or maple glaze

Jump to Recipe

There’s something magical about the smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? These Gluten-Free Apple Fritters bring that cozy autumn feeling straight to your table—without the mess of deep frying.

As a mom juggling work, homework, and dinner duty, I crave recipes that feel homemade but don’t eat up my evening. This one hits the sweet spot—literally.

Quick, easy, and made in the air fryer, it’s the kind of dessert that impresses my family without adding stress. If you’re craving comfort with a healthy twist, this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Apple Fritters

These Gluten-Free Apple Fritters are a dream come true for busy days and sweet cravings. They’re golden, crisp, and bursting with warm apple-cinnamon flavor—yet made without the hassle of frying.

In just 20 minutes, you’ve got a healthy apple fritter recipe that satisfies without guilt. Whether you’re dodging gluten or just love quick treats, this air fryer apple dessert checks all the boxes.

Ingredients Gluten-Free Apple Fritters

Every ingredient in these Gluten-Free Apple Fritters plays a part in creating that perfect balance of crispy outside and tender apple-filled inside. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need—simple pantry staples with a cozy fall twist. Exact measurements are listed at the bottom of this post and are printable for your convenience.

Apples: I love Honeycrisp or Gala because they’re naturally sweet with a nice bite. Dice them small for even cooking.
Gluten-free all-purpose flour: Choose one with xanthan gum for the right texture. It helps bind everything together.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon and apples.
Baking powder: Gives the fritters that lovely puff and lightness—no dense bites here.
Ground cinnamon: The ultimate fall flavor, warm and comforting. A little goes a long way.
Egg: Helps bind the batter and adds moisture. You can swap in an egg replacer for a vegan version.
Milk: Any kind works—dairy or plant-based. I usually go with almond milk for a lighter feel.
Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and brings out the natural sweetness of the apples.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
Olive oil spray: Keeps the fritters from sticking to the air fryer basket and helps them crisp up. Any cooking spray will do.
Powdered sugar: For dusting at the end—totally optional but adds a lovely bakery-style finish.
Optional toppings: Try a cinnamon-sugar sprinkle or a drizzle of maple glaze if you’re feeling fancy.

Each ingredient is easy to find and flexible enough to adapt—perfect for a quick gluten-free sweet recipe that works with what’s already in your kitchen.

How to Make Gluten-Free Apple Fritters

Let’s turn those humble ingredients into something warm, comforting, and downright irresistible. These Gluten-Free Apple Fritters come together fast, and the air fryer does all the heavy lifting. Follow these simple steps and your kitchen will smell like fall in no time.

Step 1 – Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your gluten-free flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This blend creates the cozy base of your fritters. Don’t skip the salt—it’s the quiet hero that balances all the sweetness.

This step sets the stage for a classic apple cinnamon air fryer snack with just the right amount of spice.

Step 2 – Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat your egg, pour in the milk of your choice, and stir in the vanilla extract. I always smile at this part—vanilla smells like dessert in a bottle, doesn’t it?

Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients and stir gently. You want a thick, scoopable batter—not runny, not dry. Think muffin batter with a little muscle.

Step 3 – Fold in the Apples

Now for the star of the show—those sweet, juicy apple chunks. Fold them in gently, making sure they’re evenly spread throughout the batter. Every bite should have at least a little apple surprise.

This is where your healthy apple fritter recipe starts to come to life.

Step 4 – Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. This helps the fritters start cooking right away, giving them that golden outer crust. I like to place a parchment round in the basket and give it a quick spray with olive oil.

No parchment? No problem. Just spray the basket directly—this keeps your no fry apple fritters from sticking.

Step 5 – Scoop and Cook the Fritters

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop mounds of batter into the basket. Don’t flatten them—they’ll puff up beautifully on their own. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

They’re done when they’re golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. Your air fryer apple dessert is almost ready!

Step 6 – Finish and Serve

Once out of the air fryer, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple glaze if you’re feeling fancy. I’ve even done both when my sweet tooth takes over. No judgment here!

Serve warm for that fresh-from-the-bakery taste. And just like that, you’ve got a quick gluten-free sweet recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Tips for Success

Dice your apples small and evenly so they cook through without leaving raw chunks.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform fritters that cook evenly in the air fryer.
Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until combined to keep the texture light.
Preheat the air fryer for a crispier finish and quicker cooking time.
Let the fritters cool for a minute before dusting with powdered sugar—it won’t melt right off.

Equipment Needed

Air fryer: Any model works, but one with a basket-style tray gives the best crisp.
Mixing bowls: One for dry, one for wet—nothing fancy needed.
Whisk or fork: To blend ingredients smoothly without a mess.
Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps portion the fritters evenly.
Parchment rounds (optional): Great for easy cleanup and less sticking.

Variations

Vegan version: Swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use plant-based milk.
Maple-glazed fritters: Drizzle with a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and pure maple syrup for extra decadence.
Apple-pear combo: Mix diced pear with apple for a sweeter, juicier twist—great for using up fruit on the edge.
Nutty crunch: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for texture and a boost of protein.
Spiced-up version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ground ginger for a warmer, more complex fall flavor.
Low-sugar option: Reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your intake—these still taste amazing.
Mini fritters: Use a smaller scoop for bite-sized treats—perfect for kids or party platters.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these fritters with a warm mug of chai or spiced apple cider for cozy fall vibes.
Top them with Greek yogurt or coconut whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful hot-and-cold dessert combo.
Garnish with fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a pretty presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these gluten-free apple fritters ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! I’ve made a batch in the morning and reheated them later for dessert—they’re still delicious. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready, pop a few back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. They’ll crisp right up without losing that soft, apple-filled center. Perfect for busy weekdays or make-ahead brunches!

Q: What’s the best apple variety for this healthy apple fritter recipe?

A: I’m a big fan of Honeycrisp or Gala—they’re naturally sweet and hold their shape well. Granny Smiths work too if you like a tart bite, especially with a sweet glaze. Honestly, use what you have! This healthy apple fritter recipe is forgiving, and each apple brings a slightly different charm to the table.

Q: How do I store leftover air fryer apple dessert fritters?

A: If you somehow have leftovers (rare in my house!), let them cool completely and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, the air fryer is your best friend again—about 2–3 minutes at 350°F does the trick. They’ll taste just like your fresh-made air fryer apple dessert.

Q: Can I make this a vegan apple cinnamon air fryer snack?

A: Yes, and it’s easier than you’d think! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested). Use plant-based milk—almond, oat, or soy work great. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-friendly. You’ll get a warm, comforting apple cinnamon air fryer snack that’s 100% vegan and still full of flavor.

Q: How do I keep the fritters from sticking in the air fryer?

A: A light spritz of olive oil spray does wonders. I also use parchment paper rounds with holes—they make it so much easier to lift the fritters out. If you don’t have parchment, just spray the basket well before adding your no fry apple fritters. And remember, don’t overcrowd! Give those fritters space to puff and crisp.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making these Gluten-Free Apple Fritters—a little kitchen magic that turns simple ingredients into a warm, golden delight. They’re sweet but not too sweet, crisp without the grease, and comforting like a cozy blanket on a fall afternoon.

Whether you’re baking for picky kids, surprise guests, or just yourself (no shame!), this quick gluten-free sweet recipe brings big flavor with little effort. My air fryer earns its keep with this one, and I hope yours does too. Here’s to more moments of joy—one delicious bite at a time.

Gluten-Free Apple Fritters Made Easy in Air Fryer