Crispy, golden, and full of sweet onion flavor, these Amish Onion Fritters are a classic comfort food! They make a perfect side dish or snack—lightly crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1-2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 ½ medium onions, chopped (about 2 ½ cups)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
Make the Batter
- Slowly pour in the milk, stirring continuously until a thick batter forms.
Add the Onions
- Fold in the chopped onions, making sure they are evenly coated in the batter.
Heat the Oil
- Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F.
Fry the Fritters
- Using a spoon or small scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the hot oil.
- Gently flatten them with the back of a spoon.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain & Serve
- Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, garlic aioli, or honey mustard.
Cooking Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Enjoy these crispy, savory onion fritters as a snack or a side dish!
30 Popular Questions & Answers 

What kind of onions should I use?
Sweet onions, yellow onions, or white onions work best.
Can I use red onions?
Yes! They add a slightly different flavor and color.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, fry them fresh.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Make sure the oil is hot enough (350-375°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk?
Yes! It adds extra tangy flavor and makes them even fluffier.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! Try adding ½ cup shredded cheddar for a cheesy version.
What oil is best for frying?
Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for the best results.
Can I air-fry these fritters?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour.

Can I add herbs and spices?
Yes! Garlic powder, paprika, or chopped parsley work great.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

How do I reheat them?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.

Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze in a single layer, then reheat in an oven or air fryer.

What can I serve them with?
They pair well with ranch, sour cream, or spicy mayo.

Can I make them spicy?
Yes! Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.

Why are my fritters soggy?
The oil might be too cold, or you overcrowded the pan.

Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but reduce the baking powder to 1 teaspoon.

Can I use a different milk alternative?
Yes! Almond milk or oat milk work well.

Do I need cornmeal?
Cornmeal adds crunch, but you can omit it.

Can I add bacon?
Yes! Chopped crispy bacon makes them even better.

Can I use a deep fryer?
Yes! Fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Should I drain the onions first?
Not necessary, but patting them dry removes excess moisture.

Can I use pancake mix?
Yes! It makes them slightly sweeter.

How do I prevent them from sticking?
Make sure the oil is hot before adding the batter.

Can I add veggies?
Yes! Corn, grated zucchini, or bell peppers work well.

Can I use beer instead of milk?
Yes! Beer adds a light, crispy texture.

What’s the best way to shape them?
Use a small ice cream scoop or spoon for even portions.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free milk alternative.

What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli are perfect!
30 Tips to Make Amish Onion Fritters Even More Delightful 

- Use sweet onions for a milder flavor.
- Slice onions super thin for a crispier texture.
- Mix in shredded cheese for extra flavor.
- Try adding diced jalapeños for spice.
- Use beer instead of milk for a lighter batter.
- Rest the batter for 5 minutes before frying.
- Fry in batches to prevent soggy fritters.
- Use a thermometer to maintain 350-375°F oil temperature.
- Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
- Season immediately after frying for maximum flavor.
- Use a deep fryer for evenly cooked fritters.
- Try smoked paprika for a richer taste.
- Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Top with crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
- Serve with garlic aioli instead of ranch.
- Make them mini-sized for bite-sized treats.
- Experiment with different onions like red or shallots.
- Use buttermilk for a fluffier texture.
- Coat in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Make a spicy mayo dip for bold flavor.
- Fry in coconut oil for a unique taste.
- Add fresh chopped chives for extra color.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for umami richness.
- Try a mix of cornmeal and flour for the best texture.
- Use a cast iron skillet for even frying.
- Make a double batch and freeze leftovers.
- Reheat in the air fryer for the best crunch.
- Dust with Cajun seasoning for a bold twist.
- Serve with homemade honey butter for a sweet contrast.
- Pair with soup or salad for a complete meal.
Now go make the crispiest Amish Onion Fritters ever!