Eloise Moon There’s something irresistibly satisfying about the first bite into a perfectly crisp spring roll — the delicate crunch of the wrapper followed by a burst of fresh, flavorful filling. For decades, spring rolls have been one of the most beloved Asian appetizers, enjoyed across cultures and occasions. Yet, for many home cooks, the idea of deep-frying can feel intimidating or unhealthy. Enter the air fryer — a revolutionary kitchen appliance that brings all the crispiness of deep-fried foods with a fraction of the oil.
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know to make golden, crunchy, and healthy Air Fryer Spring Rolls at home. Whether you’re hosting friends, preparing a light dinner, or simply craving a snack that won’t leave you feeling guilty, this recipe delivers it all — flavor, texture, convenience, and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air fryer spring rolls offer the best of both worlds: deep-fried crunch with none of the excess oil. They’re lighter, faster, and cleaner to make, all while maintaining authentic flavor and texture. Here are a few reasons these rolls will quickly become your new favorite snack:
1. Crispy Perfection Without Deep Frying
The air fryer circulates hot air around the rolls, creating a beautifully golden exterior that mimics deep-fried texture — minus the greasy aftertaste.
2. Healthier Alternative
Traditional spring rolls are submerged in oil, which increases calories and fat. Air-fried versions require only a light spray of oil, keeping your rolls under 130 calories each.
3. Quick and Effortless
No need for a pan full of hot oil or long cleanup sessions. From prep to plate, you can have crispy spring rolls ready in 20 minutes.
4. Customizable for Any Diet
Vegetarian? Vegan? Gluten-free? You can adjust fillings and wrappers easily to match your dietary preferences.
5. Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish, spring rolls add elegance and fun to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple, flexible ingredient list to make around 8–10 spring rolls. You can double the batch for parties or store extras for later.
Main Ingredients
- 1 package spring roll wrappers (rice paper or thin egg roll wrappers)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup sliced mushrooms (optional but adds umami)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sealing edges)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
Optional Add-Ins for Flavor
- ½ cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- ½ cup shredded chicken breast
- ¼ cup firm tofu, diced and lightly sautéed
- ¼ tsp chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy twist
For Dipping Sauces
- Soy sauce – classic and salty
- Sweet chili sauce – for a sweet-spicy kick
- Peanut sauce – creamy and nutty
- Hoisin sauce – deep, tangy flavor
Equipment You’ll Use
- Air Fryer – for even, crisp cooking.
- Mixing Bowl – to toss your vegetables and seasonings.
- Shallow Dish – to soften rice wrappers if using rice paper.
- Tongs or Fork – for flipping rolls halfway.
- Basting Brush or Spray Bottle – to lightly coat the rolls in oil.
- Serving Plate – because presentation matters!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
This vegetable medley forms the heart of your spring rolls — colorful, fragrant, and perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Prepare the Wrappers
If using rice paper wrappers, fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip each wrapper for 3–5 seconds — just until pliable. Do not over-soak, or it will tear.
If using egg roll wrappers, no soaking is needed — simply place them on a flat, dry surface.
Step 3: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Lay one wrapper flat. Place 2 tablespoons of filling near the bottom third.
- Fold the sides inward like an envelope.
- Roll tightly toward the top.
- Seal the edge with a small paste made from cornstarch mixed with water.
Pro Tip: Keep unrolled wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375 °F (190 °C) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the rolls start crisping immediately.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil.
Arrange the rolls in a single layer — avoid crowding. Lightly brush or spray the tops with oil.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on all sides.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for one minute before serving.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped herbs, and enjoy the crunch.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugar | 2 g |
These values may vary depending on wrappers and fillings used. Using minimal oil and plenty of vegetables keeps this recipe light yet satisfying.
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Spring Rolls
1. Lower Oil Intake
Air frying reduces oil usage by nearly 80 % compared to deep-frying. This not only cuts calories but also helps maintain heart health.
2. Rich in Fiber and Antioxidants
Vegetables like cabbage and carrots are packed with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants that support digestion and immunity.
3. Protein Versatility
Adding shrimp, chicken, or tofu boosts protein content without compromising flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Rice paper wrappers make the recipe naturally gluten-free — ideal for sensitive diets.
5. Weight-Management Friendly
Each roll is filling yet light, perfect for calorie-conscious eaters looking for flavor without heaviness.
Creative Variations
1. Protein-Packed Spring Rolls
Include cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or tofu for added protein. These versions make a great post-workout snack or lunchbox item.
2. Spicy Kick
Mix in chili flakes, sriracha, or finely chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
3. Veggie Medley
Experiment with bell peppers, spinach, bean sprouts, or even grated zucchini for new flavor layers.
4. Sweet Dessert Rolls
Try a dessert twist — fill wrappers with apples, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar, then air-fry until golden.
5. Fusion Style
Incorporate non-traditional fillings like seasoned ground turkey, mozzarella, or avocado slices for a modern fusion snack.
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Spring Rolls
⭐ Do Not Overfill: Overstuffing leads to bursting wrappers. Two tablespoons of filling per roll is ideal.
⭐ Seal Properly: Use cornstarch paste for a tight, leak-proof seal.
⭐ Crisp Factor: Lightly spray the rolls before air frying for extra crunch.
⭐ Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between rolls for proper air circulation.
⭐ Reheat Right: Reheat leftover rolls in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Preheat: Starting with a cold air fryer prevents proper browning.
- Over-Soaking Wrappers: Too soft and they’ll tear easily.
- Using Too Much Oil: A light mist is enough. Excess oil can make rolls soggy.
- Ignoring Flip Time: Flip halfway for even coloring.
- Stacking Rolls After Cooking: Steam builds up; let them cool on a rack instead.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile spring rolls pair wonderfully with multiple dishes and occasions.
- As an Appetizer: Serve alongside soy or sweet chili sauce for dipping.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried veggies.
- At Parties: Arrange on a platter with assorted dips for guests.
- For Kids: Fill with mild veggies and serve with ketchup or honey-mustard.
- For Lunch: Serve 3–4 rolls with a small salad for a balanced light meal.
Beverage Pairings:
Try green tea, lemonade, or a light Asian-style mocktail for a refreshing balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen wrappers?
Yes! Just thaw them completely at room temperature before using. Handle gently to avoid tearing.
Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble rolls up to one day in advance, cover with a damp towel, and refrigerate until ready to air-fry.
Can I freeze cooked or uncooked spring rolls?
Both options work. For uncooked rolls, freeze on a tray first, then store in a sealed bag. Air-fry directly from frozen — just add 2–3 extra minutes.
Can I bake these instead of air-frying?
Yes, bake at 375 °F for 15–20 minutes, flipping once midway. They’ll be slightly less crispy but still delicious.
How do I prevent sticking?
Spray both the basket and rolls lightly with oil before cooking, and avoid overcrowding.
What if my rolls come out soggy?
Either they were too close together or you used too much oil. Give them space and keep oil light.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To Store
Place cooled rolls in an airtight container lined with paper towels. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Freeze
Arrange in a single layer and freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a zip bag. They keep well for up to 2 months.
To Reheat
Air-fry for 3–5 minutes at 350 °F or bake for 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving — it softens the wrapper.
Cultural Insight: The Story Behind Spring Rolls
Spring rolls originated in China centuries ago, often served during the Spring Festival as a symbol of wealth and new beginnings. Over time, the dish traveled across Asia, inspiring variations in Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan. Each region adapted it to local ingredients — some filled with noodles and herbs, others with minced meats or seafood.
The version we enjoy today is a celebration of freshness and texture. Using an air fryer gives this traditional favorite a modern twist that suits contemporary healthy lifestyles while honoring its cultural roots.
