Amish Onion Fritters Recipe brings you an irresistibly crispy, golden-brown treat that’s bursting with sweet onion flavor and a hint of savory spice. Originating from the simple kitchens of Amish country, these fritters are the perfect quick snack, appetizer, or side dish. In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch of these delightful patties, fry them to perfection, and have your family or guests begging for more. Ready to learn how to make this down‑home classic? Let’s get started!
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What is Amish Onion Fritters?
What’s in a name? Why on earth are these little patties called “Amish Onion Fritters”? Ever wondered if the Amish really invented them, or if it’s just one of those old‑timey labels? Picture this: a cozy farmhouse kitchen, a pot of lard heating on the stove, and grandma humming a tune as she chops onions.
Legend has it that an enterprising Amish cook once said, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and tossed together onions, flour, and eggs in a moment of inspiration. Voilà Amish Onion Fritters were born! So why not channel your inner Amish cook and give ’em a try? You might just discover your new favorite comfort food.
Key Ingredients for Amish Onion Fritters
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow or sweet onions (about 2 medium onions)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal (adds extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (balances savory onion)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (for lightness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil all work)
Special prep: Make sure onions are chopped uniformly to ensure even cooking. Sift flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper together for a lump‑free batter.
How to Make Amish Onion Fritters
These fritters come together in under 15 minutes of prep and fry up golden and crisp in just 3 minutes per side. With minimal equipment—a mixing bowl and a skillet—you’ll have a satisfyingly savory snack on the table in about 30 minutes total.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes

Amish Onion Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistibly crispy and golden, these Amish Onion Fritters are packed with sweet onion flavor and a hint of savory spice. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow or sweet onions (about 2 medium onions)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
- Peel and finely chop the onions. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and whisk in the milk.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped onions.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F.
- Drop 2-tablespoon mounds of batter into hot oil, flatten slightly, and fry 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain fritters on paper towels and serve immediately.
Notes
Keep oil temperature consistent and avoid overmixing the batter. Serve with sour cream, ranch, or chive dip for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Why You’ll Love This Amish Onion Fritters

- Crispy, Flavor-Packed Bite
Each fritter boasts a perfectly crisp exterior that gives way to a tender, onion‑filled center. The contrast of textures will have you reaching for one more, and then another, until the entire platter is gone! - Cost‑Saving Homemade Goodness
Skip the takeout or pre‑made snacks. With pantry staples like flour, eggs, and onions, you’ll spend just a few dollars to make a batch that feeds a crowd—and tastes way better than anything you can buy. - Endless Topping Possibilities
Drizzle with creamy sour cream, tangy chive dip, or zesty ranch dressing. For a twist, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, grated cheese, or even a dash of cayenne for heat. Feeling adventurous? Learn how to make Amish Onion Fritters with Chive Dip—your taste buds will thank you!
Craving more homestyle recipes? Check out our Amish classics like the Amish Apple Cake Recipe or cool off with some Amish Applesauce Cake next. Now—grab your spatula and let’s fry up some fun!
What to Serve Amish Onion Fritters With

- Chive Sour Cream Dip: Mix sour cream, chopped chives, a squeeze of lemon, and a pinch of salt.
- Spicy Ranch: Stir a little hot sauce into ranch dressing for a kick.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Smoky Baked Beans: A classic Southern pairing that warms you from the inside out.
- Iced Sweet Tea or Fresh Lemonade: Cut through the fried goodness with a cool, sweet sip.
Top Tips for Perfecting Amish Onion Fritters

- Don’t Overmix: Stir batter just until ingredients come together. Overmixing can make fritters tough.
- Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to portion fritters evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Oil Temperature: Keep oil between 350°F–360°F. Too hot and outside burns before inside cooks; too cool and fritters absorb oil.
- Paper Towel Drainage: Drain on paper towels or a wire rack to keep fritters crispy.
- Variations Welcome: Swap half the yellow onions for sweet Vidalias, or mix in finely shredded potatoes for extra heartiness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Flash‑freeze fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating from Fridge: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place fritters on a baking sheet and reheat 8–10 minutes until hot and crisp.
- Reheating from Frozen: Bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts
Amish Onion Fritters capture the humble, comforting spirit of Amish cooking—simple ingredients, straightforward methods, and flavors that bring everyone to the table. Whether you’re hosting a game‑day gathering or simply craving a savory snack, these fritters deliver on taste, texture, and nostalgia. Don’t forget to explore more timeless recipes on our Medium blog and get inspired by our boards on Pinterest!
FAQs
Amish onion fritters recipe air fryer
To make these fritters in an air fryer, lightly spray the baskets with oil, place the battered fritters in a single layer, and air‑fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Crispy onion fritters recipe
For extra crispiness, add 2 tablespoons corn starch to the dry mix and fry at a steady 350°F. Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
Baked onion fritters
Combine batter and drop onto a parchment‑lined baking sheet. Spray tops with oil and bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
Amish Onion Fritters with chive dip
Whisk together 1 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve on the side for dipping.
ENJOY, Happy baking