Amish Onion Fritters Recipe – Crispy, Golden, and Full of Flavor
If you haven’t tried Amish Onion Fritters, you’re missing out on one of the most comforting and flavorful dishes from the heart of Midwestern Amish cooking. These golden-brown fritters are crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with sweet onion flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this traditional recipe brings warmth and simplicity to the table.
What Are Amish Onion Fritters?
Rooted in Amish and Midwestern tradition, these savory fritters were created with the spirit of resourceful home cooking — using simple ingredients to create something special. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy dinners, Amish onion fritters are quick to make and even quicker to disappear!
Ingredients for Amish Onion Fritters
To make a batch of crispy and flavorful onion fritters, you’ll need:
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2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
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1 large egg
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¾ cup milk
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Vegetable oil for frying
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Use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best flavor, but yellow onions also work well.
How to Make Amish Onion Fritters – Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create perfectly crispy Amish onion fritters every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
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1 cup flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
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Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly.
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Add ¾ cup milk and stir to combine.
Step 3: Combine the Batter
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Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients.
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Mix until a soft, thick batter forms — similar to pancake batter.
Step 4: Add the Onions
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Fold in the thinly sliced onions, making sure they are evenly coated in the batter.
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This helps the onions stay together during frying and delivers that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
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In a large skillet or frying pan, heat ½ inch of vegetable oil to 365°F (185°C).
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Use a thermometer if possible. If not, test by dropping in a small bit of batter — it should sizzle and float.
Step 6: Fry the Fritters
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Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon.
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Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Amish onion fritters are delicious on their own but also pair well with:
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Hearty stews or chili
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Fresh green salads
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Slow-cooked baked beans
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A dollop of sour cream or creamy ranch dip
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A glass of iced tea or lemonade for that Midwestern touch
Tips and Variations
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Add chopped parsley or chives for fresh flavor.
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Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for mild heat.
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Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
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Reuse the oil by straining it after frying and storing it in a jar for later use.
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Waste not, want not — a classic Amish principle.
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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To reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry until hot and crispy.
Final Thoughts
These crispy Amish Onion Fritters are more than just a snack — they’re a tribute to the warmth and resourcefulness of Amish kitchen traditions. With simple pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of fritters that deliver both comfort and flavor in every bite.
Whether served as a starter, side dish, or midday treat, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.