Crispy Perfection: How to Air Fry Frozen Spring Rolls (and Egg Rolls!)

Craving that perfectly crispy, golden-brown appetizer without the hassle and oil of deep frying? Look no further! Air frying frozen spring rolls offers a fast, easy, and mess-free way to enjoy this beloved snack. In just 7-8 minutes, your air fryer, preheated to 400°F (200°C), can transform frozen spring rolls into a delightful treat. Whether you prefer Ling Ling, Costco, Trader Joe’s, or any other favorite brand, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to achieve air-fried spring roll perfection every time.

Spring Rolls, Egg Rolls, and Lumpia: The Delicious Distinctions

For many, spring rolls and egg rolls are staple takeout items, offering a delightful crunch and savory filling. While often used interchangeably, these popular Asian appetizers have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding these differences can enhance your appreciation and help you choose the best option for your air fryer adventure.

• Spring Rolls: Typically feature a thin, delicate wrapper made from rice paper or a thin flour-based pastry. These wrappers are known for their light and airy texture when fried, or a chewy texture when served fresh. Fillings often include fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and sometimes shrimp or vermicelli noodles. Spring rolls can be served fresh (like Vietnamese summer rolls), baked, or fried. When air-fried, they become wonderfully crisp and golden.
• Egg Rolls: Characterized by a thicker, chewier wrapper that is typically made from wheat flour and may or may not contain egg (despite the name!). This wrapper usually has a bubbly texture when fried, providing a more substantial bite. Common fillings are heartier, often including shredded cabbage, pork, shrimp, or other meats. Egg rolls are almost always deep-fried, which gives them their signature golden-brown, crispy exterior.
• Lumpia: Hailing from the Philippines and Indonesia, Lumpia is a type of spring roll that reflects regional culinary diversity. Lumpia wrappers are generally thin, similar to traditional spring rolls, and can be made from various flour types. The fillings are incredibly diverse, ranging from savory meat and vegetable combinations (lumpiang shanghai) to sweet options (turon, a banana lumpia). Like spring rolls, lumpia can be enjoyed fresh or fried, and they perform exceptionally well in an air fryer, developing a beautifully crisp skin.

The good news is that for air frying purposes, the method described in this recipe is largely interchangeable for small, frozen versions of all three! Whether you have frozen mini spring rolls, cocktail-sized egg rolls, or bite-sized lumpia, your air fryer can turn them into a delicious snack. Just ensure you’re working with smaller rolls, as larger, thicker egg rolls may require longer cooking times or different adjustments.

A light mist of cooking spray can help achieve an even crispier exterior, especially if your rolls appear dry. However, many brands already contain enough oil to crisp up beautifully without additional spray. It’s truly the easiest way to get that restaurant-quality crunch right in your own kitchen!

Why Choose the Air Fryer for Frozen Spring Rolls?

The air fryer has become a kitchen superstar, and for good reason! When it comes to cooking frozen appetizers like spring rolls, it offers several distinct advantages over traditional methods:

• Unbeatable Crispiness: Air fryers circulate hot air rapidly, mimicking the effect of deep frying but with significantly less oil. This means your frozen spring rolls will emerge incredibly crispy and golden brown, rivaling those from your favorite takeout spot.
• Healthier Alternative: By drastically reducing the amount of oil needed, air frying offers a healthier way to enjoy fried foods. You get the desired texture without the excess fat and calories associated with deep frying.
• Convenience and Speed: From freezer to table in under 10 minutes (including preheating!), the air fryer is a marvel of efficiency. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when a snack craving hits.
• Easy Cleanup: No splattering oil, no heavy pots, and no messy stovetops. Air fryer baskets and trays are typically non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
• Even Cooking: The consistent circulation of hot air ensures that your spring rolls cook evenly on all sides, eliminating soggy spots and guaranteeing uniform crispness.
• Reduced Kitchen Heat: Unlike firing up a large oven or stovetop, the air fryer keeps your kitchen cooler, which is especially welcome during warmer months.

For these reasons, the air fryer is unequivocally the best method for preparing frozen spring rolls, delivering a superior eating experience with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Perfectly Air-Fried Spring Rolls

Making delicious frozen spring rolls in your air fryer requires just a few simple items. The quality of your ingredients can subtly enhance the final outcome, so choose wisely!

• Frozen Spring Rolls (or Mini Egg Rolls/Lumpia): The star of our show! Select your favorite brand, such as Ling Ling, Costco, Trader Joe’s, Pagoda, or any other popular variety. This recipe is optimized for cocktail-sized or mini spring rolls and egg rolls. Larger, thicker versions may require slight adjustments to cooking time. Look for options with vegetable, chicken, pork, or shrimp fillings based on your preference.
• Cooking Oil Spray (Non-Aerosol Recommended): While many frozen spring rolls contain enough oil to crisp up on their own, a light mist of cooking oil spray (like avocado oil, olive oil, or grapeseed oil) can significantly enhance browning and crispiness. Non-aerosol pumps are often preferred as they avoid potential damage to air fryer coatings. If your spring rolls already look oily, you can skip this step.
• Dipping Sauce of Choice: A good dipping sauce is essential for elevating your spring roll experience. Options abound, from classic sweet chili sauce and sweet and sour sauce to savory soy sauce, fiery Chinese hot mustard, or rich duck sauce. For a unique twist, consider a homemade peanut sauce (like our keto peanut sauce) or even a simple vinaigrette.

That’s it! With these minimal ingredients, you’re ready to transform frozen convenience into a gourmet snack.

Essential Equipment for Air Frying

To achieve the best results for your air-fried spring rolls, having the right tools makes all the difference:

• Air Fryer: Of course! There are many excellent brands and models on the market, including the Ninja Foodi, Philips, Nuwave, Pampered Chef, Actifry, Instant Pot Vortex, and Cosori. While this recipe provides general guidelines, cooking times may vary slightly between different air fryer models due to wattage and basket/tray design. Familiarize yourself with your specific air fryer’s performance.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Safety first! This tool is crucial for ensuring your spring rolls, especially those with meat or poultry fillings, reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). While vegetables rolls are often pre-cooked, checking ensures everything is thoroughly heated.
• Tongs: Useful for carefully flipping the hot spring rolls halfway through cooking and for removing them from the air fryer without burning your fingers.
• Parchment Paper (Optional): While not strictly necessary, air fryer-specific parchment paper liners can make cleanup even easier and prevent very delicate rolls from sticking to the basket. Ensure it has holes for air circulation.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Air Fry Frozen Spring Rolls

Follow these simple steps to cook frozen spring rolls to crispy perfection in your air fryer:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:

   Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Preheating is a crucial step that ensures even cooking and immediate crisping upon contact with the hot air, leading to a much better texture.

2. Arrange Spring Rolls in a Single Layer:

   Carefully place the frozen spring rolls onto your preheated air fryer tray or into the air fryer basket. It is vital to arrange them in a single layer, ensuring there is ample space between each roll. Overcrowding the basket will lead to uneven cooking and a steamy environment, preventing the rolls from crisping properly. If necessary, cook in batches. For an air fryer oven, place the tray in the top rack position, closest to the heating element, for maximum crispiness.

   

3. Mist with Cooking Spray (Optional):

   Lightly mist the spring rolls with cooking oil spray. This step is optional but highly recommended, especially for rolls that appear less oily. The spray helps achieve a deeper golden color and an extra layer of crispness. If your rolls are already visibly oily from the freezer, you can skip this to avoid excess oil.

4. Air Fry and Flip:

   Air fry the frozen spring rolls for a total of 7-8 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Halfway through the cooking time (around 3.5-4 minutes), carefully flip each spring roll using tongs. If they appear dry, mist them with a bit more cooking spray before continuing to air fry. Flipping ensures both sides get equal exposure to the circulating hot air, resulting in uniform crispness and color.

   

5. Check for Doneness and Serve:

   Once the cooking time is complete, verify that the spring rolls are thoroughly heated. The exterior should be golden brown and crispy. For peace of mind, especially with meat-filled rolls, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of a roll. It should register a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, add an additional 1-2 minutes of air frying time. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Reheating Leftover Spring Rolls in the Air Fryer

While freshly air-fried spring rolls are undeniably the best, sometimes you have leftovers. The good news is that your air fryer is also the superior tool for reheating them, bringing back much of their original crispiness that other methods can’t match.

To reheat:

• There’s no need to preheat your air fryer for reheating.
• Place the leftover spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray.
• Air fry at 350°F (177°C) for approximately 3 minutes.
• If using an air fryer oven, position the tray on the top rack for best results.

It’s worth noting that spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh, so try to air fry only what you intend to eat in one sitting. However, if you do have cooked leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this will inevitably result in a soggy texture, losing the desirable crispness.

Dipping Sauce Ideas to Elevate Your Snack

A great spring roll is often defined by its perfect dipping companion. Here are some popular and delicious options to pair with your crispy air-fried spring rolls:

• Sweet Chili Sauce: A classic choice that offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
• Peanut Sauce: Creamy, rich, and savory, often with a hint of spice. Our keto peanut sauce is a fantastic homemade option.
• Sweet and Sour Sauce: A vibrant and fruity sauce that cuts through the richness of fried foods.
• Soy Sauce: A simple, umami-rich option, often enhanced with a dash of rice vinegar or sesame oil.
• Chinese Hot Mustard: For those who love a pungent, fiery kick that clears the sinuses!
• Duck Sauce (Plum Sauce): Sweet and tangy, with a fruity depth, commonly served with fried appetizers.
• Sriracha Mayo: A modern, creamy, and spicy blend that adds a delightful zing.
• Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese Dipping Sauce): A refreshing blend of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, water, and chili, perfect for fresh spring rolls but also delicious with fried ones.

Experiment with different sauces to find your personal favorite, or offer a variety for guests to choose from!

Expert Tips for Air Frying Frozen Spring Rolls

To ensure your air-fried spring rolls are consistently perfect, keep these dietitian-approved tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is arguably the most important rule for air frying. Overlapping or stacking spring rolls will steam them instead of crisping them. Always cook in a single layer, even if it means working in batches.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, an air fryer performs best when preheated. This ensures the rolls start cooking immediately and achieve a better crisp texture from the get-go.
• Use Cooking Spray Wisely: A light mist of non-aerosol cooking oil spray can significantly boost crispiness and golden color. However, if your frozen spring rolls already have a visible coating of oil, you might not need extra.
• Flip Them Halfway: Flipping ensures even exposure to the circulating hot air, resulting in uniform crispness and browning on all sides.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always use an instant-read thermometer, especially for meat or poultry-filled rolls, to confirm they’ve reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust for Size: This recipe is calibrated for mini or cocktail-sized spring rolls. Larger or thicker egg rolls will require a longer cooking time. Always monitor closely and adjust as needed.
• Know Your Air Fryer: Every air fryer is slightly different. The first time you try a new recipe, keep an eye on your food and make notes for future reference.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your air-fried spring rolls as soon as they are done. They tend to lose some crispiness as they cool.

Frozen Spring Rolls in Air Fryer (Ling Ling Mini Spring Rolls)

Frozen Spring Rolls in Air Fryer (Ling Ling Mini Spring Rolls)

By Summer Yule

Discover the perfect way to air fry frozen spring rolls for a quick, crispy appetizer or snack!

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Course: Snack

Cuisine: Chinese

Servings: 3

Calories: 170 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen spring rolls (e.g., Ling Ling mini vegetable spring rolls, or mini egg rolls)
• Cooking oil spray (non-aerosol recommended)
• Dipping sauce of choice (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Carefully place the frozen spring rolls on a hot air fryer tray or in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure proper crisping on all sides. You should be able to fit a standard box of mini spring rolls on most air fryer trays.
3. Lightly mist the spring rolls with cooking spray. If using an air fryer oven, place the tray on the top rack position, closest to the heating element.
4. Air fry the frozen spring rolls for a total of 7-8 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Halfway through the cooking time, flip the spring rolls. Mist them with more oil if they appear dry.
5. After cooking, check to ensure they have reached a minimum safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Add additional cooking time if necessary. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Kitchen Thermometer

Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule

This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). The calories in air fried spring rolls depend significantly on the brand you choose. Here’s a comparative look at the nutrition information for some popular spring roll brands (per serving, as listed on the packaging at the time of writing, subject to change):

Brand	Calories	Net Carbs (g)	Protein (g)
Ling Ling Mini Vegetable Spring Rolls	230	23	3
Pagoda spring rolls (vegetable)	130	19	3
Trader Joe’s spring rolls (vegetable)	90	7	2
Trader Joe’s spring rolls (chicken)	100	9	5
Minh Egg Rolls (pork & vegetable)	190	18	6
SeaPak Shrimp Spring Rolls	170	16	4
Marathon Spring Rolls	243	24	6.2
Spring Valley Vegetable Spring Rolls	170	23	4
Feel Good Foods Vegetable Egg Rolls	100	19	2
Chung’s Vegetable Spring Rolls	200	24	7

The nutrition information provided is an estimate and may vary. Always check the packaging of the specific brand you purchase for the most accurate and up-to-date details.

For those interested in a fresher, potentially more nutritious option, consider making homemade spring rolls. A Vietnamese spring roll with peanut sauce typically contains around 226 calories (referencing our recipe below). While homemade versions might have slightly higher calories than some store-bought alternatives, they often offer more fresh vegetables and whole food ingredients, providing a more complete nutritional profile.

Homemade Spring Rolls Recipe (Fresh)

If you’re looking for a healthier, fresh alternative, try making these delicious homemade spring rolls:

• 7 rice paper wrappers
• 1.4 ounces rice vermicelli, rehydrated (40 grams)
• 8 ounces medium shrimp, tail-off, peeled, cooked (227 grams)
• 2 medium carrots, cut into matchsticks
• 1 cucumber, cut into matchsticks (9.5 ounces/269 grams)
• 25-30 fresh basil leaves
• 25-30 fresh mint leaves
• Keto peanut sauce

To make fresh spring rolls:

1. Prep All Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are prepared and ready before you begin assembly. Cook the vermicelli according to package directions, cook and peel the shrimp, cut carrots and cucumber into matchsticks, and wash and dry your fresh herbs. Fill a wide, shallow bowl with warm water, but do not soak the rice paper yet.
2. Set Up Your Rolling Station: Find a clean, non-stick surface for assembling your spring rolls. A sushi mat or a damp cutting board works wonderfully.
3. Soak Rice Paper: Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for the duration specified on its package (usually 5-15 seconds). It should be pliable but still have some firmness. Only soak one piece at a time, right before you plan to fill it.
4. Layer the Filling: Lay the softened rice paper flat on your rolling surface. Arrange the ingredients in the center-bottom portion, leaving space on the sides for folding. Start with 3-4 shrimp, then a portion of the vermicelli, followed by carrots, cucumbers, and finally, 3-4 leaves each of basil and mint.
5. Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling, tucking it snugly. Then, fold in the left and right sides. Firmly roll the spring roll upwards, keeping it tight to create a neat, cylindrical shape. If your rice paper tears, you may have soaked it too long. Try less time or use a double layer for fragile wrappers. (For a visual guide, many online videos demonstrate the wrapping technique.)
6. Repeat and Serve: Continue this process for the remaining six spring rolls. Serve these fresh spring rolls immediately with the peanut sauce. Enjoy this vibrant and healthy meal!

These fresh spring rolls are reminiscent of a popular appetizer from places like The Cheesecake Factory but much lighter. For a low-carb option, substitute rice vermicelli with shirataki noodles. Marinated tofu can replace shrimp for a delightful vegetarian variation.

Are Frozen Spring Rolls Healthy? A Nutritional Look

When considering the “healthiness” of frozen spring rolls, it’s important to differentiate between convenience and optimal nutrition. Store-bought frozen spring rolls and egg rolls often fall into the category of ultra-processed foods.

Here’s why:

• Processing and Ingredients: Many commercially available spring rolls feature wrappers made from refined white flour, which can be low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grains. The fillings, while sometimes containing vegetables, can also include various additives, preservatives, and less-than-ideal fats.
• Frying Method: Even when air-fried at home, these products are often designed to be deep-fried commercially, meaning they are formulated with a higher fat content to achieve a certain texture. While air frying reduces added oil, the inherent fat content in the product remains.
• Sodium and Fat Content: Some brands can be high in sodium, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure. Fat content also varies widely; some can be quite high in saturated fat depending on the filling and oil used in manufacturing.

Checking Labels is Key: To determine if a particular brand fits your dietary needs, always check the nutrition label. Look for options with lower sodium, healthier fats, and more whole ingredients if possible. If weight loss or specific dietary restrictions are your goal, these convenience items might not be the best daily choice.

The Homemade Advantage: In my opinion as a dietitian, homemade fresh spring rolls almost always surpass their deep-fried or frozen counterparts in terms of nutritional value. With fresh ingredients, lean proteins (like shrimp or tofu), and vibrant vegetables wrapped in light rice paper, you get a significant boost in fiber, vitamins, and minerals with less processed ingredients. The colors and textures of fresh spring rolls are not only appealing but also indicative of their wholesome nature. If this aligns with your dietary preferences, don’t miss our healthy fresh spring rolls recipe provided above!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to cook frozen spring rolls in oven?

To cook frozen spring rolls in a conventional oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen spring rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Larger frozen egg rolls and thicker spring rolls may require a longer baking time, typically 20-24 minutes, so adjust accordingly and always check with a thermometer.

How to deep fry frozen spring rolls?

If you prefer the traditional deep-fried method, preheat your deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with oil to 375°F (191°C). Carefully place the frozen spring rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. Deep fry for 4-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove with a slotted spoon and blot with paper towels to remove any excess oil before serving.

What are the best frozen spring rolls?

The “best” frozen spring rolls are subjective and depend on your taste preferences, dietary needs, and budget. Popular brands like Ling Ling, Pagoda, Trader Joe’s, and SeaPak offer a variety of flavors and styles (vegetable, chicken, shrimp). Since frozen spring rolls are often considered a treat rather than a health food, my advice is to choose the brand and flavor you genuinely enjoy! Always check the ingredient list and nutrition label if you have specific dietary concerns.

Are air fryer spring rolls vegan?

Not all spring rolls are vegan. Many frozen spring rolls and egg rolls contain egg in the wrapper or meat/poultry in the filling. However, there are vegan options available. Brands like Ling Ling offer mini vegetable spring rolls that are typically vegan. Lucky Foods also has vegan and gluten-free spring roll options. Always check the product label for the most current nutritional and ingredient information to ensure it aligns with a vegan diet.

Why aren’t my spring rolls cooked through?

Several factors can affect whether your spring rolls cook through properly in an air fryer:

• Size of Spring Rolls: This recipe is for thin, small spring rolls or egg rolls. Larger or thicker varieties will require more cooking time.
• Air Fryer Model: Different air fryers have varying wattages and heating efficiencies. Your specific model might cook slower or faster than the average.
• Lack of Preheating: Not preheating the air fryer can lead to longer cooking times and less crispy results, as the food starts cooking from a cold environment.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Placing too many spring rolls in the air fryer at once reduces air circulation, causing them to steam instead of crisp and hindering even cooking. Always cook in a single layer.
• Freezer Temperature: If your spring rolls were exceptionally cold (e.g., from a deep freezer), they might need an extra minute or two.

Always ensure your air fryer is preheated and that you’re cooking in a single layer. If they still aren’t cooked through after the recommended time, add 1-2 minutes and recheck the internal temperature.

Other Air Fryer Appetizer Recipes

If you’ve discovered the magic of air frying frozen spring rolls, you’ll love how easy it is to make other appetizers! Here are a few more delicious ideas to try in your air fryer:

• Air Fryer Pot Stickers
• Keto Mozzarella Sticks (Air Fryer)
• Air Fried Chicken Wings
• Ore Ida Tater Tots (Air Fryer)
• Totino’s Pizza Rolls (Air Fryer)

Don’t forget to explore our comprehensive collection of Best Frozen Foods for the Air Fryer for even more convenient meal and snack ideas!