Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
If you’re anything like me, the idea of warm, gooey apple treats instantly brings a smile and cozy vibes to mind. This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic fried version, delivering all the sweet apple and cinnamon magic you crave but in a lighter, oven-baked form. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack, these fritters offer a tender crumb studded with chunks of juicy apples, kissed with warming spices, and topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that’s simply irresistible. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the aroma of fall and hearts with happiness every time you bake these beauties.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create these enchanting baked apple fritters. Each one plays a key role—from the flour that gives structure, to the apples and spices that bring character and warmth, and the glaze that finishes everything with a sweet touch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides the perfect tender bite without heaviness.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for the light, fluffy texture everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice, a classic pairing with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and cozy aroma.
- 2 large eggs: Bind all ingredients, ensuring a rich, moist fritter.
- 2/3 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps with browning.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet, aromatic layer of flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped apples (peeled, preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): The star ingredient, offering juicy bursts in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples bright and prevents browning.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Coats the apples, adding caramel notes and extra sweetness.
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for a sweet, glossy finish.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for easy drizzling.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely fragrant note to the glaze.
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Step 1: Prep the apples
Begin by tossing your peeled, chopped apples with lemon juice and brown sugar in a small bowl. This simple step keeps the apples fresh and juicy, while the brown sugar gives them a lovely caramelized touch once baked. Set this mix aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combination creates the flavorful foundation of your fritters, with the spices infusing warmth into every bite.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This mixture adds moisture and richness, ensuring your fritters come out tender and soft.
Step 4: Bring it all together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make your fritters dense, so keep it light and quick! Next, carefully fold in the apple mixture, distributing those juicy bites evenly throughout the batter.
Step 5: Shape and bake
Drop generous 1/4 cup portions of batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each fritter about 2 inches apart so they bake properly. Gently flatten the tops to ensure even baking. Pop them in the oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 14 to 16 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the glaze
While the fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. You want a glaze that’s thick enough to cling but fluid enough to drizzle beautifully.
Step 7: Glaze and cool
Once the fritters have cooled for about 5 minutes, generously drizzle the glaze over them. Let the glaze set a bit to add that irresistible sweet finish before digging in.
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon sugar or finely chopped toasted nuts for texture and extra flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a classic bakery look that’s simply inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these fritters with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. For breakfast, a side of creamy Greek yogurt or a fresh fruit salad complements the apple flavor perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the baked apple fritters stacked on a rustic wooden platter lined with parchment paper for a farmhouse feel. Alternatively, skewer mini fritters with cinnamon sticks as edible stirrers alongside coffee or mulled cider for a cozy touch at brunch or holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your baked apple fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This short window keeps them fresh and soft without losing that delightful tender texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep these delicious fritters longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They freeze wonderfully for up to 1 month, perfect for prepping in bulk ahead of time.
Reheating
To warm up leftover or frozen fritters, pop them in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes. This method revives their golden exterior without drying them out, bringing back that freshly baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are preferred for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with Fuji or Gala for a slightly sweeter fritter. Just make sure to peel and chop them evenly.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling keeps the fritters tender and consistent in texture, but if you like a bit more rustic feel and extra fiber, you can leave the skins on. Just wash them well and chop finely.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same. The baking powder helps keep the fritters light and airy.
What if I don’t have a baking sheet or parchment paper?
You can use a non-stick baking pan or lightly grease a regular baking sheet. Parchment paper helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking, so it’s worth trying to have on hand if possible.
Can I make the glaze dairy-free or vegan?
Definitely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, and choose vegan powdered sugar if available. The glaze will still be deliciously smooth and sweet.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite easy treats to whip up whenever I want that nostalgic apple cinnamon comfort without the fuss of frying. Light, tender, and filled with juicy apple bites, they’re perfect for sharing with family or keeping all to yourself on a cozy afternoon. I genuinely hope you enjoy baking and savoring these just as much as I do!
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Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Baked Apple Fritters, a perfect combination of tender apples and warm spices baked to golden perfection. Ideal as a comforting breakfast or sweet dessert, these fritters offer a healthier twist with a light glaze, making them an irresistible treat for fall or any time of year.
Ingredients
Fritter Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped apples, peeled (preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare apples: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice and brown sugar to coat evenly. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This creates the flavorful base of the fritters.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters tender. Then fold in the apple mixture carefully.
- Portion and shape fritters: Drop 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten the tops of each portion with the back of a spoon to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare glaze: While the fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and serve: Allow the fritters to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then drizzle the glaze generously over each fritter. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving to enjoy a sweet finish.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, enjoy these fritters fresh.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat leftover fritters in a low oven for a few minutes to restore warmth and crispness.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- A pinch of ground cardamom can be added to the batter for a unique aromatic touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
