Air Fryer Avocado Fries
These Air Fryer Avocado Fries are crispy, creamy, and ready in just 30 minutes. Breaded with panko or pork rind crumbs and lightly spiced, they’re a satisfying snack or appetizer. Serve with zesty Buffalo ranch for a flavor-packed, low-carb treat that’s high in fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 Chef Knife
- 3 Prep Bowls3 Prep Bowls
- Nonstick cooking spray
Ingredients
For the Avocado Fries:
- 2 large firm but ripe avocados ~8 oz each
- ⅓ cup cornstarch or coconut flour/all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pork rind crumbs or panko crumbs
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- Dipping sauce for serving
For the Buffalo Ranch Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls for a smooth breading process. In the first bowl, combine ⅓ cup cornstarch (or your choice of flour), 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. In the second bowl, beat 2 large eggs until smooth and slightly frothy. In the third bowl, place 1 cup of pork rind crumbs or panko crumbs. These three stations will allow you to coat the avocado slices efficiently, layer by layer.
- Select and Cut the Avocados: Choose 2 firm but ripe avocados (about 8 ounces each) for the best texture—they should feel slightly soft, like a tangerine, but not mushy. Slice each avocado in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the pit by gently tapping the blade of a chef’s knife into the pit and twisting to lift it out. Peel each half and slice into ½-inch thick wedges, aiming for 8 to 10 slices per avocado. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking and uniform crispiness.
- Coat the Avocado Slices in Flour Mixture: Take each avocado slice and dredge it in the cornstarch-spice mixture. Ensure every surface is lightly covered. Shake off any excess flour so the coating doesn’t clump. This first layer helps the egg and crumb coatings stick better, giving a crisp outer layer.
- Dip in Egg Wash: Transfer the floured avocado slice into the beaten eggs. Turn the slice so both sides are fully coated, letting the excess egg drip off. This sticky layer acts as a binding agent for the crumb coating and helps the breading adhere firmly during air frying.
- Coat with Crumbs: Next, press each slice gently into the pork rind crumbs or panko crumbs, making sure both sides are fully coated. Press lightly to help the crumbs stick evenly without crushing the avocado. This final layer will give your fries their signature crunchy exterior.
- Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 400˚F (200˚C). This ensures that the avocado fries start crisping immediately upon contact with the hot basket.
- Arrange Slices in the Basket: Place as many avocado slices as fit comfortably in a single layer, leaving space between each slice. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent even cooking and reduce crispiness. You may need to cook in multiple batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Lightly Oil the Slices: Spray the avocado slices lightly with cooking oil. This step enhances browning and ensures a golden, crispy texture similar to deep-fried fries but without excess oil.
- Air Fry – First Side: Cook the slices at 400˚F for 3 minutes. This initial short burst starts the crisping process without overcooking the soft avocado inside.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip each avocado slice to its opposite side or on its edge. Lightly spray again with cooking oil. Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crunchy. Repeat with any remaining batches.
- Prepare the Buffalo Ranch Dipping Sauce: While the fries cook, combine ½ cup ranch dressing and 2 tablespoons of Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and evenly blended. Adjust the spice level by adding more buffalo sauce if desired. This sauce adds a tangy, zesty flavor that complements the creamy avocado perfectly.
- Plate and Garnish: Transfer the cooked avocado fries to a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately with lime wedges and the prepared Buffalo Ranch dipping sauce for a vibrant, flavor-packed snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Choose the Right Avocados: Use medium-ripe avocados; they should be firm to the touch but slightly soft inside, ensuring they hold shape during breading and air frying.
- Customizable Coatings: Swap cornstarch for all-purpose or coconut flour, and pork rind crumbs for panko to suit dietary preferences.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Lay avocado slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even crisping.
- Spray for Extra Crunch: Lightly spray slices with cooking oil before air frying to mimic deep-fried texture.
- Batch Cooking Tip: If making multiple batches, keep cooked fries warm in a low oven (200°F) to maintain crispiness.
- Spice Adjustments: Add cayenne, garlic powder, or ranch seasoning to the flour mixture for customized flavor.
