Name: Baked Apple Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 31 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you love the cozy, comforting flavors of fall wrapped in a light, fluffy treat, then these Baked Apple Fritters are about to become your new favorite! This recipe takes the beloved classic apple fritter and transforms it into a healthier, oven-baked delight that still delivers all of the juicy apple goodness and warm spices we crave. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert, these fritters are simple to make but bursting with flavor and that lovely golden texture that’s just irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Baked Apple Fritters comes from a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that each play an essential role: some bring sweetness, others create light and fluffy texture, and a few make sure every bite is bursting with cozy, warm flavors.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation giving structure to the fritters.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the apples.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps these fritters puff up nice and airy in the oven.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, familiar spice we all love with apples.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth that makes every bite memorable.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together creating a smooth batter.
1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lends a sweet, fragrant aroma that feels like a warm hug.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a slight buttery flavor to the fritters.
1 1/2 cups diced apples: Use tart Granny Smith or sweet Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar: The sweet, smooth base for the glaze coating.
2–3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to just the right consistency.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with that extra dash of flavor.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it—this makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your fritters from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients packs all the warm spices and sweetness that will infuse into every bite.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until everything is smooth and well combined. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the fritter batter.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, gently stirring until just combined—overmixing can make your fritters tough, so keep it light! Then fold in the diced apples carefully to evenly distribute their juicy bursts throughout the batter.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Scoop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread a bit. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is seriously unbeatable!

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the fritters are cooling slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a silky smooth glaze. Adjust the milk to get your preferred consistency—thinner if you want a drizzle, thicker if you prefer to brush it on.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle or brush the glaze generously over your warm fritters. Let the glaze set for a few minutes, then dive in! These baked apple fritters are best enjoyed fresh while the glaze is still slightly gooey and the apples warm and tender.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters

Garnishes

For a little extra wow factor, sprinkle your baked apple fritters with a dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon on top. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs perfectly, turning these fritters into an irresistible dessert feast.

Side Dishes

Serve your Baked Apple Fritters alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a hot cup of chai tea to complement the warm spices. For a more substantial breakfast, pair them with crispy bacon or a light fruit salad for balance and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by stacking a few fritters and layering fresh apple slices and a drizzle of caramel sauce between them. You can even turn the fritters into a fun apple fritter sandwich with cream cheese or mascarpone filling inside. The possibilities for this versatile treat are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they tend to disappear fast!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them tender and tasty, ready to be enjoyed as a quick snack or breakfast.

Freezing

You can freeze baked apple fritters to enjoy later. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to eat them.

Reheating

To bring your chilled or frozen fritters back to life, warm them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps refresh their softness and gives the glaze a fresh shine.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for Baked Apple Fritters?

Absolutely! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices because they balance tartness and sweetness well, but feel free to experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn for different flavor profiles. Just be sure to dice them small so they cook evenly.

Is there a way to make these fritters gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum. This swap usually works well without changing the texture too much, but be sure to check your blend’s guidelines for best results.

Do I have to use whole milk in the recipe?

Whole milk works best for taste and texture, but you can substitute it with 2% milk or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind that non-dairy options might slightly alter the flavor and moisture content.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

While it’s possible, it’s best to mix and bake the batter immediately after adding the apples. The apples can release moisture, which might make the batter watery if left too long before baking. If you do prep early, store the batter tightly covered in the fridge and bake within a couple of hours.

How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Simply add more powdered sugar to thicken the glaze if it’s too runny, or add a small splash of milk if it’s too thick. Adjust gradually until you reach the perfect drizzling consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Baked Apple Fritters: they’re warm, comforting, and packed with the flavors of fall in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat after dinner, these fritters are sure to delight. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a treasured part of your kitchen routine!