Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the fritters crisp up quickly.
Prep the basket: Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil.
This reduces sticking and promotes even browning.
Mash the bananas: In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until mostly smooth with a few small lumps. You want a thick puree, not a fully liquid mash.
Whisk the wet ingredients: Add the egg, milk, and vanilla. Whisk until combined.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Make the batter: Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture.
Stir gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but scoopable; if it’s runny, add a tablespoon of flour; if too thick, add a splash of milk.
Portion the fritters: Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to drop tablespoon-sized mounds of batter into the basket. Leave space between fritters so air can circulate.
Air fry the first side: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes.
The tops should set and the bottoms should be golden.
Flip carefully: Use a thin spatula to flip each fritter. If any stick, let them cook another minute before trying again.
Air fry the second side: Cook for another 4–6 minutes, until both sides are golden-brown and the centers are cooked through.
Check doneness: Insert a toothpick into a fritter. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Finish and serve: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.
Serve warm for the best texture.