Crispy corn fritters are a delicious snack or appetizer, and using an air fryer makes them quick and lighter than traditional frying methods.
This recipe combines sweet corn and spicy jalapeños for a flavorful kick and uses pantry staples for easy preparation.
The air fryer crisps up the fritters beautifully without excess oil, making them a convenient and tasty treat to enjoy anytime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The batter uses a balance of cornmeal and flour for structure and crispness in the air fryer.
- Jalapeños add a mild heat that complements the sweetness of the corn.
- Air frying gives a crispy texture without deep frying, reducing fat and mess.
- Using buttermilk keeps the fritters tender while giving a slight tang.
- Cooking at 375°F ensures the fritters cook through evenly while developing a golden crust.
Sweet Corn and Jalapeño Air Fryer Fritters
These crispy, spicy air fryer corn fritters use sweet corn and jalapeños for a delicious appetizer or snack that's quick to make and perfectly golden.
- Prep time
- 10 minutes
- Cook time
- 15 minutes
- Servings
- 4
- Yield
- About 12 fritters
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels (about 160g)
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (65g)
- 1/2 cup cornmeal (70g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (120ml)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for air fryer basket
Instructions
- Prepare the batter In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined without overmixing. Fold in the corn, jalapeño, green onions, and cilantro if using.
- Preheat and prepare the air fryer Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Form and cook fritters Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the air fryer basket, flattening slightly to form fritters. Cook in batches, leaving space between fritters.
- Air fry the fritters Cook the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for 7 minutes. Flip carefully and cook for an additional 6 to 8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Serve Remove fritters from the air fryer and let them cool for 2 minutes on a wire rack. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Remove jalapeño seeds if you prefer milder fritters.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for even crisping.
- Use fresh corn for best texture, but frozen is fine — thaw and pat dry before using.
- Let fritters rest on a wire rack after cooking to maintain crispiness.
- If buttermilk is unavailable, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp up before serving again.
Do not freeze as fritters may lose texture and become soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these fritters vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk in place of buttermilk.
Can I bake the fritters instead of air frying?
Yes, bake fritters on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (205°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping once halfway through until golden brown.
What dipping sauces go well with these fritters?
Try serving with sour cream, a spicy mayo, ranch dressing, or a tangy cilantro lime dip for complementary flavors.
Leave a Reply