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Crispy Mini Blooming Onions in Air Fryer

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These Crispy Mini Blooming Onions are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic appetizer. Made in the air fryer, they’re golden, crispy, and packed with flavor without the excess oil of deep frying. Perfect for parties, game day, or as a fun snack!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 small onions (like pearl onions or cippolini onions)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Cooking spray

For Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions:

  1. Peel the onions and trim the root end slightly so the onion can stand upright, but do not cut too much to avoid the layers separating.
  2. Slice the onions into “blooms” by making 4-6 evenly spaced cuts from the top to near the base, being careful not to slice all the way through. Gently separate the layers to create the blooming effect.

2. Make the Coating:

  1. In one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.

3. Coat the Onions:

  1. Dip each onion into the flour mixture, coating all the layers. Shake off excess.
  2. Next, dip the onion into the egg mixture, ensuring it gets into all the layers.
  3. Finally, dip it back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat well.

4. Air Fry the Onions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the coated onions into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
  3. Spray generously with cooking spray.
  4. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through and reapply cooking spray if needed for even crispiness.

5. Make the Dipping Sauce:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Serve:

  1. Serve the mini blooming onions hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Onion Size: Use small onions for mini blooms. For larger onions, increase cooking time slightly.
  • Make Ahead: Prep the onions and coat them, then refrigerate for up to 1 hour before air frying.
  • Spice it Up: Add more cayenne or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.