There’s a reason Amish cooking endures: it’s honest, hearty, and deeply satisfying, made with pantry staples and a generous hand. These Amish Onion Fritters are a perfect example—thinly sliced onions bound in a light, golden batter, fried to crisp perfection, and kissed with just enough sweetness to balance their savory soul.
Served hot from the skillet with a sprinkle of sea salt, they’re irresistible on their own—but even better paired with apple butter, sour cream, or alongside fried chicken or pork chops. And despite their golden, restaurant-worthy look, they’re shockingly easy to make with just 5 ingredients and one bowl.
Let’s bring a taste of Amish country comfort to your kitchen—no buggy required.
Why You’ll Love These Fritters
✅ Only 5 ingredients—flour, eggs, milk, onions, salt
✅ Ready in 20 minutes—faster than takeout
✅ Naturally nut-free and easily made gluten-free
✅ Kid-approved and perfect for brunch, dinner, or snacks
✅ Uses humble yellow onions—no fancy ingredients needed
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 large yellow onions (about 2½ cups thinly sliced)
1 cup all-purpose flour (or 1:1 GF blend)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
¾ cup milk (whole or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
1 tsp salt, plus more for finishing
¼ tsp black pepper (optional)
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying
Optional: 1 tsp sugar (traditional in some Amish recipes for subtle sweetness)
Onion tip: Slice onions ¼-inch thick—thin enough to cook through, thick enough to stay distinct.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Onions
Thinly slice onions and place in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit 5 minutes—this draws out excess moisture and mellows their bite. Pat very dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
In another bowl, beat egg and milk.
Pour wet into dry and stir until just combined—it should be thick but pourable (like pancake batter).
Fold in onions.
Don’t overmix—a few lumps are fine!
3. Fry Until Golden
Heat ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
Drop ¼-cup mounds of batter into the oil, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and cooked through.
Drain on a wire rack (not paper towels—keeps them crisp!).
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while hot.
Tips for Perfect Amish Fritters
Dry onions = crisp fritters—wet onions make batter soggy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches for even browning.
Keep oil at medium heat—too hot = burnt outside, raw inside.
Make ahead: Batter keeps 1 hour in fridge; onions may weep—drain before using.
Serve immediately—they’re best hot and crisp!
Serving Suggestions That Shine
Classic Amish style: With a dollop of apple butter or homemade jam
Savory pairing: Alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or ham steak
Brunch favorite: Top with a fried egg and chives
Appetizer twist: Serve with garlic aioli or spicy maple dip
Vegetarian meal: With a simple green salad and crusty bread
Delicious Variations
Gluten-Free: Use 1:1 GF flour blend + ½ tsp xanthan gum
Dairy-Free: Swap milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk
Herb-Infused: Add 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley to the batter
Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ tsp cayenne or diced jalapeño
Sweet Onion: Use Vidalia or Walla Walla onions—skip added sugar
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I bake or air fry these?
A: Yes!
Air fryer: Spray fritters with oil and cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Oven: Bake at 425°F on a greased sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping once.
Q: Why are my fritters greasy?
A: Oil was too cool. Maintain medium heat—batter should sizzle gently on contact.
Q: Can I use frozen onions?
A: No—they release too much water. Fresh onions are essential.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness (microwaving makes them soggy).
Final Thoughts: Simple Ingredients, Deep Comfort
Amish Onion Fritters are more than a side dish—they’re a celebration of resourcefulness and flavor. With their crispy edges, tender onions, and hint of sweetness, they’re the kind of dish that turns a humble meal into something special.
So slice those onions, heat that oil, and fry up a batch that’ll have everyone reaching for “just one more.”
Made these and heard the crunch of approval? I’d love to hear how you served them—apple butter? Fried egg? Share your fritter success in the comments below—or tag me on social. And if you know someone who thinks onions are “just a garnish,” send them this recipe. You’ll change their mind—one crispy bite at a time. ✨