1. Begin by peeling the onions and slicing off the top. Place the onion cut-side down and make vertical cuts from the top towards the root, leaving about 1/2 inch uncut at the bottom. Make these cuts approximately 1/4 inch apart all around the onion.

2. Gently pull apart the layers to create the bloom shape. Soak the prepared onions in ice water for 10 minutes to help them open further, then pat them dry with paper towels.

3. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk.

5. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Coat each onion in the flour mixture, making sure to get the mixture between the petals. Shake off any excess.

7. Dip the onion in the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.

8. Coat the onion in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing gently to help it stick between the petals.

9. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

10. Carefully place the coated onions in the basket, making sure they’re not touching each other. Generously spray the tops of the onions with cooking spray.

11. Air fry the onions for 15-18 minutes, flipping or spraying with more oil halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.