- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apples gently.
- Shape the Fritters: Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, scoop out portions of the batter and shape them into round fritters, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Coat the Fritters: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Roll each fritter in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Place the coated fritters in the basket, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook: Air fry the fritters at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the apple fritters to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, either plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
These air fryer apple fritters are deliciously crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside, with bursts of sweet apple in every bite. They make a fantastic treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!