Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a crunchy, golden-brown treat without all the extra oil from traditional frying. These spring rolls are packed with a colorful mix of veggies and sometimes a bit of meat or tofu, all wrapped up in a light, flaky wrapper that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
I love making these because they’re quick to prepare and then turn out perfectly crispy every time. Using the air fryer means less mess and a healthier snack or appetizer, which makes me feel better about grabbing seconds—or thirds! If you want an extra pop of flavor, I usually serve them with a tangy dipping sauce like sweet chili or soy sauce mixed with a touch of garlic and ginger.
These spring rolls always bring smiles to the table. They’re great for sharing at parties or just as a fun weeknight treat. I remember the first time I made them for friends, and everyone kept reaching for more before dinner even started. It’s a simple recipe that never disappoints, especially when you want something crispy and tasty in a snap.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spring Roll Wrappers: These are essential for that crispy shell. If you can’t find them, rice paper can work but will give a softer texture after air frying.
Cabbage & Carrots: These add crunch and sweetness. You can swap with other veggies like bean sprouts, bell peppers, or shredded zucchini.
Mushrooms: I like adding finely chopped mushrooms for umami. If you prefer vegetarian, shiitake or cremini are great picks. Or skip them entirely if you’re not a fan.
Glass Noodles: Optional but add nice texture. Rice vermicelli or even cooked rice can be alternatives.
Soy Sauce & Sesame Oil: These bring flavor and a bit of depth. For a gluten-free version, try tamari instead of soy sauce. Sesame oil is strong, so a little goes a long way.
How Do I Get Spring Rolls Perfectly Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Achieving super crispy spring rolls in an air fryer is all about the right prep and cooking steps. Here’s how I do it:
- Lightly brush or spray the rolls with oil before air frying to help get that golden, crisp finish.
- Arrange rolls in a single layer. Avoid stacking to let all sides crisp evenly.
- Flip halfway through cooking so both sides brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed for best airflow.
Patience is key! Cooking at 390°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes usually gives me the perfect crunch without drying out the filling. Let them cool a couple of minutes before eating; the shell firms up even more.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love it because it makes spring rolls crispy with less oil.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for combining the filling ingredients.
- Cooking brush or spray bottle – helps you lightly coat the rolls with oil for extra crunch.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables and herbs neatly.
- Small spoon or scoop – makes filling each wrapper easier and less messy.
- Plate or tray – to hold wrapped spring rolls before air frying.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of veggies for more protein.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a burst of flavor.
- Stir in a splash of sriracha or lime juice into the filling for a spicy or tangy twist.
- Try different dipping sauces like peanut sauce or sweet chili for variety.
Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms
- ½ cup cooked glass noodles (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking the filling)
For Wrapping and Cooking:
- 10 spring roll wrappers
- Cooking spray or a little oil for brushing the rolls
- Dipping sauce of choice (e.g., sweet chili sauce or soy sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the filling and roll the spring rolls, plus 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Plan for around 25 minutes total to have these crispy treats ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the aroma. Then add shredded cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and cooked glass noodles if you are using them. Stir-fry everything for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are slightly soft. Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, ground black pepper, and chopped green onions. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let it cool a little.
2. Roll the Spring Rolls:
Lay one spring roll wrapper flat on your clean surface with a corner pointing towards you, like a diamond shape. Place about two tablespoons of the filling near the corner closest to you. Fold that corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right corners toward the center. Roll tightly toward the far corner, sealing the last edge with a little water. Repeat until all filling and wrappers are used.
3. Air Fry the Spring Rolls:
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly brush or spray each spring roll with a little cooking oil—this helps them get extra crispy. Place the spring rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch or overlap. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the rolls halfway through to brown evenly. When golden and crispy, carefully remove them.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the spring rolls cool for a couple of minutes, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili or soy sauce. They’re delicious as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal!
Can I Use Frozen Spring Roll Wrappers?
Yes! Just thaw them fully in the fridge or at room temperature before using. Handle gently to avoid tearing since they become more fragile after freezing.
Can I Prepare the Spring Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Roll them up and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before air frying. If you want to store longer, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the air frying time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover cooked spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Can I Add Protein to the Filling?
Yes! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions. Just chop or shred finely and stir into the filling before wrapping.