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Air Fryer Pumpkin Fritters

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Air Fryer Pumpkin Fritters are so good! If you have been looking for the perfect and easy way to make a homemade pumpkin fritter in minutes, this is one of my favorite recipes!

Everyone went crazy for my Air Fryer Apple Fritters, so why not pumpkin fritters?

Regarding the fall, I get excited about making pumpkin and apple treats for my family. So, if you have been looking for some great recipes, I have a lot to offer, and they are either made in the Air Fryer or the Instant Pot!

My favorite Air Fryer Pumpkin Recipes are INSTANT POT CURRIED PUMPKIN SOUP, AIR FRYER GLAZED PUMPKIN SCONES, AIR FRYER PUMPKIN FRENCH TOAST, and AIR FRYER PUMPKIN SPICE BUNDT CAKE.

What Are Pumpkin Fritters?

Fritters are nothing more than a different type of donut. They are usually prepared with yeast donut ingredients. While they are usually cooked in the oven, we made them in the Air Fryer today.

Typically, they are served with a powdered sugar glaze. Today, we added some traditional ground cinnamon sugar coating and another flavor. This brought out the Pumpkin Fritter’s pumpkin flavors.

Can You Cook Pumpkin Fritters In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook pumpkin fritters in an air fryer for a healthier and less oil-intensive version than deep frying. The whole family will love this delicious breakfast recipe.

Try my recipe for Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters, Air Fryer Corn Fritters, or even Air Fryer Chicken Fritters.

These fluffy fritters will not disappoint. And the air fryer is the perfect way to cook to perfection.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pumpkin Fritters

These ingredients combine Pumpkin Fritters with a comforting blend of pumpkin spice, sweetness, and a satisfyingly doughy texture, making them a perfect fall-inspired treat.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Biscuits, frozen, thawed, or refrigerated: These biscuits serve as the base for the fritters, providing a doughy and flaky texture once they’re cooked.
Pecans: Diced pecans add a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor to the fritters, complementing the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Pumpkin puree: Pumpkin puree infuses the fritters with a natural sweetness, moisture, and the unmistakable flavor of pumpkin.
Pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which enhances the overall autumnal flavor profile of the fritters.
Granulated sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the fritters, creating a balanced and delightful treat.
Butter, unsalted, and melted: Melted butter contributes richness and moisture to the fritters, giving them a buttery and savory note.

How To Cook Pumpkin Fritters In Air Fryer

Air-frying pumpkin fritters give them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and flavorful. Be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed based on your specific air fryer model and the size of your fritters.

Prepare the Pumpkin Fritter Filling:

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pecans, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix these ingredients until well combined.

Prepare The Filling And Assemble The Pumpkin Bombs

Take each biscuit from the package and flatten it using your hands or a rolling pin. You want them to be about 1/4 inch thick.

Place a spoonful of the pumpkin mixture onto the center of each flattened biscuit. Fold the biscuit dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork. Ensure that the fritters are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Air Fry Pumpkin Fritters

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the pumpkin-filled fritters in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.

Air fry the fritters at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them.

Serving:

Remove the pumpkin fritters from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.

Enjoy:

Serve the air-fried pumpkin fritters as a delightful fall-inspired snack or dessert.

Recipe Variations Pumpkin Fritters

Pumpkin fritters are versatile, and you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or create different variations to enjoy. Here are some recipe variations for pumpkin fritters:

Sweet Pumpkin Fritters: Follow the basic pumpkin fritter recipe, but increase the sugar for a sweeter taste. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Serve these fritters with a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Savory Pumpkin Fritters: Skip the sugar and add savory ingredients like chopped onions, garlic, and herbs such as parsley or cilantro to the batter. You can also mix in grated cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for added richness.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Fritters: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour to make gluten-free pumpkin fritters. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Spicy Pumpkin Fritters: Add a kick of heat by incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes into the batter. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Vegan Pumpkin Fritters: To make vegan pumpkin fritters, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use plant-based butter or oil instead of dairy butter.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Fritters: Make sweet pumpkin fritters even more indulgent by adding chocolate chips to the batter. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate is delightful.
Cream Cheese-Stuffed Pumpkin Fritters: Create a decadent treat by adding a small cube of cream cheese to the center of each fritter before sealing them. This results in a creamy, cheesy surprise inside.
Nutty Pumpkin Fritters: Besides pecans, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds in your pumpkin fritters for added crunch and flavor.
Tropical Pumpkin Fritters: Mix in diced pineapple or coconut flakes to give your fritters a tropical twist. The sweetness of these ingredients pairs well with the pumpkin.
Pumpkin Spice Glaze: Make a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar, a pinch of pumpkin pie spice, and a small amount of milk. Drizzle this glaze over your pumpkin fritters for extra sweetness and flavor.

Remember that adjusting ingredient quantities may be necessary when experimenting with these variations. Feel free to get creative and tailor the fritters to your preferences, whether you prefer them sweet, savory, spicy, or with unique flavor combinations.

Pro Tips

To achieve the best results when making pumpkin fritters, consider these pro tips:

Use Fresh Pumpkin or Canned Puree: While canned pumpkin puree is convenient, fresh pumpkin that you’ve cooked and pureed yourself can provide a more vibrant and natural flavor. Roasting or steaming the pumpkin before mashing it ensures a rich taste and proper texture.
Thoroughly Drain the Pumpkin: Whether you’re using fresh or canned pumpkin, drain it well to remove excess moisture. Excess moisture can make the fritters soggy.
Balanced Seasoning: Achieve a balanced flavor by adjusting the spices and sugar to your taste. Taste the batter before frying and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Consistent Size: When forming the fritters, try to make them a similar size to ensure even cooking. This helps them cook uniformly, and you won’t end up with some fritters undercooked and others overcooked.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket or frying pan. Give the fritters enough space to expand and cook evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Check the Temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure the oil or air fryer is at the correct temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the fritters. Cooking at the right temperature helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Flip Them Carefully: When air frying or pan-frying, flip the fritters gently to avoid splattering hot oil and to prevent them from breaking apart.
Rest and Drain: After cooking, place the fritters on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Resting them for a few minutes can also help set their texture.
Serve Warm: Pumpkin fritters are best enjoyed when they’re still warm. Serve them immediately for the crispiest texture and the most delicious taste.
Storage: If you have leftover fritters, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at a lower temperature to maintain their crispiness.
Get Creative with Dips: Consider serving pumpkin fritters with various dipping sauces or accompaniments. For sweet fritters, try yogurt, caramel sauce, or chocolate ganache. For savory fritters, pair them with tzatziki, salsa, or a creamy herb dip.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients, such as nuts, chocolate chips, or unique spices. Pumpkin fritters are versatile and can be tailored to your taste.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious, crispy, and flavorful pumpkin fritters that are perfect for any occasion.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree to make pumpkin fritters?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree can be used to make pumpkin fritters. Ensure you drain any excess moisture from the canned puree to avoid making the fritters too wet.

What spices are commonly used in pumpkin fritters?

Common spices used in pumpkin fritters include cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice. These spices enhance the pumpkin flavor and provide a warm, autumnal taste.

Can I make pumpkin fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can make pumpkin fritters ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven or air fryer before serving.

Are pumpkin fritters typically sweet or savory?

Pumpkin fritters can be either sweet or savory, depending on the recipe. Sweet versions often include cinnamon sugar and spices, while savory versions may incorporate onions, garlic, and herbs.

Can I freeze pumpkin fritters?

Yes, you can freeze pumpkin fritters for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and label them with the date. To reheat, bake them in the oven or air fryer until they’re heated and crisp.

What should I serve with pumpkin fritters?

Pumpkin fritters can be served with various accompaniments. For sweet fritters, try toppings like powdered sugar, honey, maple syrup, or a sweet glaze. For savory fritters, consider dipping sauces like tzatziki, salsa, or aioli.

Can I make vegan or gluten-free pumpkin fritters?

Yes, you can adapt pumpkin fritter recipes to be vegan by using plant-based substitutes for eggs and dairy. For gluten-free fritters, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour instead of regular flour.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover pumpkin fritters?

To maintain their crispiness, reheat leftover pumpkin fritters in an oven or air fryer at a lower temperature until heated. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Can I add other ingredients to pumpkin fritters for variety?– Yes, you can get creative and add ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, or even diced fruits like apples or pears to create unique and flavorful

pumpkin fritter variations.

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