Air Fried Apple Fritters With Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

Apple fritters are a delightful treat that has been enjoyed for generations. This recipe for Air Fried Apple Fritters With Salted Caramel Sauce brings a modern twist to the traditional dessert by using an air fryer. Not only does this method make the fritters healthier, but it also ensures they are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast, a sweet snack, or a unique dessert, these apple fritters are sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Apple Fritters:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Preparing the Apple Fritters:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well mixed.
2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the melted butter while continuing to whisk.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Add Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Form Fritters: Using a spoon or a small scoop, form the batter into small fritter shapes, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
6. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
7. Air Fry the Fritters: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the fritters in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Making the Salted Caramel Sauce:

1. Melt Sugar: In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into a thick amber-colored liquid.
2. Add Butter: Carefully add the butter to the melted sugar, whisking continuously until fully melted and combined.
3. Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.
4. Season with Salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sea salt. Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Variations

Tips:

• Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Crispiness: For extra crispy fritters, lightly brush them with melted butter before placing them in the air fryer.
• Storage: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Variations:

• Air Fryer Apple Fritters with Pancake Mix: Substitute the dry ingredients with pancake mix for a quicker preparation.
• Air Fryer Apple Fritters Biscuits: Use refrigerated biscuit dough instead of making the batter from scratch.
• Healthy Option: Use whole wheat flour and a sugar substitute to make the fritters healthier.
• Bisquick Apple Fritters in Air Fryer: Replace flour with Bisquick for a fluffy texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 50g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 5g

Conclusion

These Air Fried Apple Fritters With Salted Caramel Sauce are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried fritters. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are a delightful treat for any occasion. The salted caramel sauce adds a rich and decadent touch that elevates this dish to a whole new level.