Air Fryer Spring Rolls: Crispy, Golden, and Delightfully Light

Air Fryer Spring Rolls are the perfect crispy appetizer or snack without the need for deep frying. These golden parcels, filled with a savory mix of vegetables and (optionally) meat or shrimp, deliver all the crunch and flavor of traditional spring rolls with a fraction of the oil. Quick to prepare, family-friendly, and highly customizable, air fryer spring rolls are an ideal addition to your weekly meal rotation or party spread.

The air fryer’s rapid heat circulation makes the exterior perfectly crisp while the filling stays tender and flavorful. Whether you prefer a veggie-forward version, a chicken-packed roll, or a shrimp-filled twist, these spring rolls are endlessly adaptable. Plus, they reheat beautifully, making them great for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.

In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions for crafting perfect Air Fryer Spring Rolls, discuss ingredient options, share preparation tips, address common mistakes, and offer creative variations to suit your taste.

Why Air Fryer Spring Rolls Work: Crisp, Flavorful, and Quick

Air Fryer Spring Rolls deliver a satisfying crunch, flavorful filling, and a lighter take on a classic dish that’s usually deep-fried.

Key Flavor Elements:

Thin, crispy wrapper: Delicate and perfectly golden from the air fryer.
Savory filling: A mix of crunchy vegetables, optional protein, and fragrant seasonings.
Simple seasoning: Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for an umami-rich bite.
Minimal oil: Creates crispness without greasy texture.

Each bite is a perfect balance of crispy shell and tender, flavorful filling.

Choosing the Right Wrappers: Texture and Frying Efficiency

Best Wrapper:

Spring roll wrappers (thin, square, not egg roll wrappers): Specifically made for crispy frying or air frying.

Key Tips:

Keep wrappers covered: They dry out quickly—work with one at a time and keep the rest under a damp towel.
Thaw properly: If using frozen wrappers, thaw completely to prevent cracking.

Selecting the Perfect Filling: Crunchy and Balanced

Classic Veggie Mix:

Shredded cabbage
Carrots
Green onions
Bean sprouts (optional)

Protein Add-Ins:

Ground chicken, shrimp, or pork
Tofu for a vegetarian option

Flavor Boosters:

Minced garlic
Fresh ginger
Soy sauce
Sesame oil

Optional Additions:

Glass noodles (mung bean or rice vermicelli), soaked and chopped
Shiitake mushrooms

Recommended Equipment

You’ll need:

Air fryer with basket or tray: Large enough to cook spring rolls in a single layer.
Small skillet or wok: For sautéing the filling.
Small bowl: For sealing rolls with water or cornstarch slurry.
Tongs: For easy handling.

Optional: Silicone liners for easy cleanup.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Torn Wrappers

Happens if wrappers dry out or are overstuffed.
Solution: Work quickly and keep wrappers covered. Use moderate filling amounts.

2. Soggy Spring Rolls

Occurs if the filling is too wet.
Solution: Sauté vegetables to release moisture and cool filling before wrapping.

3. Undercooked Interior

Happens if spring rolls are too thick or overcrowded.
Solution: Wrap tightly and cook in a single layer with space between rolls.

4. Uneven Browning

Caused by inadequate oil spray or air fryer crowding.
Solution: Lightly spray rolls with oil and turn halfway through cooking.

Preparation and Meal Planning Tips

Make-Ahead:

Prepare filling up to 2 days in advance.
Uncooked wrapped rolls can be stored in the fridge for 24 hours or frozen.

Meal Prep:

Cooked rolls reheat beautifully in the air fryer for quick snacks or lunches.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy peanut sauce.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Protein Options:

Shrimp, ground chicken, ground pork, or tofu.

Vegetable Variations:

Add mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or baby corn.

Seasoning Add-Ins:

Hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sriracha, or five-spice powder.

Wrapping Alternatives:

Rice paper wrappers (for a lighter, crispier finish)
Gluten-free spring roll wrappers if needed

Ingredient List

For the Spring Rolls:

10 spring roll wrappers (thawed if frozen)
1 cup shredded cabbage
½ cup shredded carrots
¼ cup green onions, sliced
½ cup cooked ground chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus oil spray for air frying)
Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for sealing

For Serving:

Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until softened.

If using protein, stir in cooked ground chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Season with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Cook for another 1–2 minutes until filling is well combined and moisture is mostly cooked off.

Let filling cool completely before wrapping.

2. Assemble the Spring Rolls

Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you.

Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the corner closest to you.

Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly away from you.

Seal the final edge with cornstarch slurry or water.

Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

4. Air Fry the Spring Rolls

Lightly spray the spring rolls with oil on all sides.

Place spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Add 1–2 extra minutes if needed for extra crispness.

5. Serve

Let cool slightly.

Serve with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Can I freeze uncooked spring rolls?
Yes. Place uncooked spring rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer bags and air fry from frozen at 390°F for 12–14 minutes.

Can I use egg roll wrappers?
You can, but they are thicker and produce a chewier result. Spring roll wrappers are preferred for crispiness.

What if my wrappers crack?
They may be too dry—cover with a damp towel and keep wrappers moist while working.

How can I make these vegetarian or vegan?
Omit meat and use tofu or all-vegetable filling.

Variations: Classic, Shrimp, and Spicy Versions

Version	Protein	Veggies	Seasoning
Classic	Chicken	Cabbage, carrots	Soy sauce, sesame oil
Shrimp	Shrimp	Bean sprouts, green onions	Soy sauce, garlic, ginger
Spicy	Ground pork	Bell peppers, mushrooms	Sriracha, soy sauce, chili oil

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Refrigerate cooked spring rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to re-crisp.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked spring rolls for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Spring Rolls are a quick, crispy, and healthier alternative to deep-fried versions that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture. Whether you prefer a veggie-filled roll, one packed with savory meat, or a spicy shrimp variation, these spring rolls are endlessly versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for making ahead.

I hope this step-by-step guide helps you create your perfect Air Fryer Spring Rolls—feel free to mix and match fillings, experiment with sauces, and explore different cultural flavors to make them uniquely yours!