Name: Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1½ tablespoon cornmeal; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ cup + 1 tablespoon cold milk; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 cups chopped onions; 2 stalks green onions, chopped (white parts and green parts); oil, for frying (about 1 inch deep in pan)

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If you have a love for crispy, golden bites that burst with savory onion goodness, this Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe is going to become your new favorite snack or side dish. These fritters combine the perfect balance of tender onions with a delightfully crunchy exterior, crafted with simple ingredients that come together in minutes. Whether you’re craving a hearty appetizer or a comforting accompaniment for dinner, this recipe is irresistible and incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll soon see why Amish-style cooking treasures these onion fritters as a staple of homey, satisfying flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white table holds several small white bowls and cups with different ingredients. In the center, a ruffled white bowl is full of diced white onions. To the bottom left, a white bowl contains a liquid that looks like milk. Nearby, a white measuring cup marked

Even though the ingredient list is straightforward, each element plays a crucial role in making these onion fritters shine. From the flour that creates the crispy batter to the spices that bring out the deep onion flavor, every addition is essential to the texture, taste, and beautiful golden color of these fritters.

Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve that perfect crispy crust.
½ cup all-purpose flour: The base for the batter, helping to bind everything together.
1½ tablespoon cornmeal: Adds a subtle crunch and a slightly nutty undertone to the fritters.
1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the savoriness with a touch of sweetness to enhance the flavor.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the fritters a light and airy texture by helping them rise.
½ cup + 1 tablespoon milk: Joins the dry ingredients to create a smooth batter; cold milk helps keep the fritters tender.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a gentle brightness that cuts through the richness and highlights the onions.
½ teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors and balances the overall taste.
½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick that complements the sweetness of the onions perfectly.
½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a warm color and a subtle smoky flavor to the fritters.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth and pairs wonderfully with the onion.
2 cups chopped onions: The star of the show, providing a sweet and savory base that caramelizes beautifully when fried.
2 stalks green onions, chopped (white and green parts): Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor, making the fritters more vibrant.

How to Make Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding about an inch of oil to a heavy-bottomed pan and warming it over medium heat. The oil needs to be hot enough to crisp the fritters without burning them, which creates that signature crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed for perfectly seasoned fritters.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour the cold milk and lemon juice into the dry mixture and stir until everything is just combined. The lemon juice adds a subtle zing that brightens the batter, and the cold milk keeps the fritters tender once fried.

Step 4: Incorporate the Onions

Quickly fold in the chopped onions and green onions, making sure each piece is coated by the batter. The onions bring sweet, pungent flavor and moisture, perfectly balancing the crispy coating.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

Carefully spoon a heaping tablespoon of batter into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fritters for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and irresistibly crispy. The size of your spoonful may affect cooking time slightly, but keep an eye on the color and texture.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess oil to drain. Continue frying the rest of the batter in batches. Serve them immediately for the best crunch, either on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe

A white plate filled with about ten crispy golden-brown fritters, each unevenly round with a rough, crunchy texture. Bright green small onion pieces are scattered on top, giving a fresh touch. Around the plate are several lemon wedges, pale yellow and juicy-looking, positioned near the edges. At the top right of the plate is a small white bowl filled with creamy white dipping sauce. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or even a bit of dill on top adds a pop of color and an additional layer of fresh flavor. A light dusting of sea salt right after frying enhances their natural savory notes and gives you that final perfect seasoning touch.

Side Dishes

These onion fritters are fantastic alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of creamy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal. They also pair beautifully with classic comfort foods such as mashed potatoes or baked beans, making your plate both hearty and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the fritters stacked with layers of tangy sour cream or a dollop of homemade apple butter in between. Alternatively, use these fritters as crispy sandwich “buns” filled with ham, cheese, and a smear of mustard for a mouthwatering twist on a classic sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though that is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep their texture as crisp as possible, allow them to cool completely before storing.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked fritters by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Transfer the frozen fritters to a resealable freezer bag and keep them frozen for up to 2 months. This method lets you enjoy your Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

To reheat and revive that crispy exterior, place the fritters on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that wonderful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of onion for this recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow onions provide a nice balance of sweetness and sharpness, you can experiment with red or white onions too. Each type will lend a slightly different flavor profile to your fritters, so have fun with it.

Is it necessary to use cornmeal in the batter?

The cornmeal adds a subtle crunch and texture that complements the softness of the onions. While not absolutely required, leaving it out will result in a softer fritter that is still delicious but less textured.

Can these fritters be made gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free baking powder, you can enjoy these fritters if you have dietary restrictions. Just keep the cornmeal and other ingredients the same.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe?

These fritters are fantastic with ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip. The dips add moisture and a contrasting flavor that enhances the simple, hearty fritters.

How can I tell when the oil is the right temperature for frying?

A good test is to drop a small bit of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready. Keeping the oil at medium heat ensures your fritters cook evenly and turn golden without burning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about biting into these Crispy Amish-Style Onion Fritters Recipe, where every crunchy, golden piece delivers a warm, savory punch of onion flavor. They’re simple to make yet impressively delicious, perfect for everything from quick snacks to crowd-pleasing sides. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll find yourself reaching for these fritters again and again, sharing the joy of homemade goodness with everyone around your table.