If you love the crispy, golden-brown onion rings from Dairy Queen, you’re in luck! This Dairy Queen Onion Rings copycat recipe lets you recreate that irresistible fast-food classic right in your own kitchen. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these onion rings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor.

Whether you’re planning a game day snack, family dinner, or party appetizer, this easy recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
- Crispy and crunchy: Perfectly golden-brown batter.
- Tender inside: Sweet onion flavor shines through.
- Easy to make at home: No need for a deep fryer.
- Perfect for dipping: Pair with ketchup, ranch, or zesty sauces.
Dairy Queen Onion Rings Ingredients

- Yellow onions – sliced into ¼-inch rings
- All-purpose flour – for a light, crispy coating
- Baking powder – adds extra crunch
- Salt – enhances flavor
- Black pepper – mild seasoning
- Buttermilk – tenderizes and adds flavor
- Panko or regular breadcrumbs – crispy coating
How To Make Dairy Queen Onion Rings

Step 1: Peel and slice onions into rings about ¼-inch thick. Separate rings carefully.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually stir in buttermilk until smooth.

Step 3: Dip each onion ring into the batter, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Step 5: Place coated onion rings in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve immediately with ketchup, ranch, or zesty dipping sauce. Enjoy that crispy, Dairy Queen-style flavor without all the oil!

Dairy Queen Onion Rings Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for even crispiness.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunch closer to deep-fried onion rings.
- Spray lightly with oil to achieve a golden color without excess grease.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little paprika or garlic powder on the coating.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
- Storing: Store leftover onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispiness before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked, coated onion rings on a baking sheet for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Cook from frozen in the air fryer for best results.
- Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or previously frozen onion rings in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Dairy Queen Onion Rings Recipe Faqs
Can I make these onion rings without an air fryer? Yes! You can deep fry or bake them in the oven at 425°F until golden and crispy.
What type of onions work best? Sweet yellow onions or Vidalia onions give the best flavor and tenderness.
Can I make these ahead of time? You can slice and coat the onions in advance and store in the fridge for a few hours, then air fry when ready.
How do I keep them crispy? Air fry in a single layer and avoid overcrowding. Reheating in the air fryer or oven helps maintain crispiness.
What dipping sauces go well with Dairy Queen onion rings? Classic options include ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or a zesty copycat Dairy Queen sauce.
Can I make them healthier? Air frying instead of deep frying reduces oil, and using whole-wheat breadcrumbs or a lighter coating can make them healthier.

More Copycat Dairy Queen Recipes
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Ninja Creami Dairy Queen Ice Cream Copycat
Ninja Creami Caramel Toffee Cookie Blizzard Recipe
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Dairy Queen Onion Rings Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions , sliced into ¼-inch rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Peel and slice 2 large yellow onions into rings about ¼-inch thick. Separate rings carefully.
- In a bowl, whisk 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder , 1 teaspoon salt , and ½ teaspoon black pepper . Gradually stir in 1 cup buttermilk until smooth.
- Dip each onion ring into the batter, then coat with 2 cups panko breadcrumbs . Press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Place coated onion rings in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with ketchup, ranch, or zesty dipping sauce. Enjoy that crispy, Dairy Queen-style flavor without all the oil!
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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