Crispy Amish onion fritters—golden, savory, and nostalgic—make the perfect quick appetizer or side dish with simple, hearty ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and golden: A perfectly crunchy texture gives way to a soft, flavorful onion-filled center.
- Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Quick and easy: Comes together in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Great as a side, snack, or appetizer for any meal or gathering.
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising taste.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 2 cups white onions, chopped (about 1 medium onion)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying, as needed
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, and milk until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, gently flattening each with the back of the spoon.
- Fry until golden brown on each side, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot for best texture.
Servings And Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: ~210 kcal
Variations
- Add herbs: Mix in chopped chives, parsley, or thyme for an herby kick.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cheesy twist: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar for a richer flavor.
- Use red onions: For a slightly sweeter and more colorful variation.
- Make mini fritters: Use a teaspoon of batter for bite-sized party snacks.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in a hot skillet or oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use yellow onions instead of white onions?
Yes, yellow onions work just as well and offer a slightly stronger flavor.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Frying is recommended for the classic texture, but you can try baking at 425°F until golden, flipping halfway.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, unsweetened almond or soy milk can replace whole milk for a dairy-free version.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for consistent frying.
How do I keep them crispy for a party?
Place them on a wire rack in a warm oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.
Are these gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best used fresh, but you can prep the dry mix in advance and add wet ingredients just before frying.
Do I need a thermometer to fry?
It helps for accuracy, but you can test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter—it should sizzle immediately.
Can I freeze the fritters?
They freeze well. Let them cool, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.
What should I serve with them?
Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or spicy aioli. They also pair well with soups and stews.
Conclusion
These Amish onion fritters are a timeless, savory treat with rustic charm and irresistible crunch. Whether you serve them as a starter, side dish, or snack, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Easy, comforting, and packed with oniony goodness—they’re a must-try for any home cook.
Print
Amish Onion Fritters
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Amish onion fritters—golden, savory, and nostalgic—make the perfect quick appetizer or side dish with simple, hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornmeal
2 teaspoons baking powder
2/3 cup whole milk
2 cups white onions, chopped (about 1 medium onion)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Oil for frying, as needed
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, and milk until smooth.
Stir in chopped onions, then season with salt and pepper.
Heat 1/2-inch oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, flatten slightly, and fry until golden brown on both sides.
Remove fritters and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot as a side or appetizer.
Notes
- Best served fresh for optimal crispiness.
- Add chopped chives or herbs for a flavor twist.
- Use a thermometer to keep oil temp steady for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Amish / American