Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions

Name: Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mini onions (about 8-10); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with vinegar); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Cooking spray

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

February 27, 2026

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Crispy Mini Blooming Onions in Air Fryer

The aroma of crispy fried onions wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds before you even take a bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly fried mini blooming onion that’s golden-brown and bursting with flavor. This is where our journey begins with the Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions.

a cozy gathering with friends and family around the table. You bring out a platter of these delightful crispy onions, and suddenly they become the star of the show. Everyone’s faces light up as they dive in for that first crunchy bite. This dish is not only delicious but also brings back fond memories of sharing good food with loved ones.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These crispy mini blooming onions are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal clean-up thanks to the air fryer.
They pack a flavorful punch with every bite while offering a visually stunning presentation.
Perfect for any occasion from game day to family gatherings, you can customize them with your favorite dips for extra fun!

I remember the first time I made these crispy mini blooming onions; my kids couldn’t get enough of them! Their delighted faces were priceless as they munched away.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Mini Onions: Choose firm mini onions; they bloom beautifully in the air fryer.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that crispy outer layer; ensure it’s sifted for best results.
Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness and helps achieve that perfect golden hue.
Seasonings (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These spices elevate flavor levels; adjust according to your preference.
Buttermilk: Provides moisture and tanginess; you can substitute it with milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Use these for maximum crunchiness; they’re much lighter than regular breadcrumbs.
Cooking Spray: A light spray ensures even browning without excess oil.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Onions: Start by peeling the mini onions carefully. Cut off about half an inch from the top while leaving the root intact so they hold together during cooking.

Soak in Buttermilk: Place the prepared onions in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step not only enhances flavor but also helps flour adhere better later on.

Create the Breading Station: In one bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place panko breadcrumbs for coating.

Dredge the Onions: Remove each onion from buttermilk and coat thoroughly in the flour mixture first. Shake off excess flour then dip it back into buttermilk before rolling it in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Air Fry Them!: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray both sides of each onion with cooking spray before placing them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Halfway through cooking, shake or flip them gently to ensure even browning.

Enjoy the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen as you wait!

With these simple steps followed closely, soon you’ll have a batch of crispy mini blooming onions that will wow everyone at your next gathering! These beauties are not just tasty; they’re fun to eat and perfect for dipping into sauces like ranch or spicy mayo!

Now you have all you need to create Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions at home! Enjoy this delightful treat anytime you crave something crunchy and satisfying!

You Must Know

Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions are a delightful appetizer that packs a flavor punch.
Their crunchy exterior and tender inside make every bite a treat, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a snack.
Plus, they’re much healthier than deep-fried versions!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking the onions in cold water to enhance their crunch. While soaking, prepare your batter and preheat the air fryer for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular flour with gluten-free alternatives or add spices like smoked paprika to kick up the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To get the best texture, ensure your onion petals are separated well before cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this helps achieve that perfect crispy finish.
Experiment with different seasonings in your batter for unique flavors!

Sharing my first attempt at Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions brings back memories of giggles and excited faces at my dinner table, proving that fun food makes for fantastic moments.

FAQ

What type of onions work best for blooming?

Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla yield great results due to their mild flavor.

Can I make these mini blooming onions gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for tasty results.

How do I prevent my onions from burning in the air fryer?

Ensure you monitor them closely and adjust cooking time if necessary, especially when trying a new batch.

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