Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked Apple Fritters are a lighter take on the classic fried treat, offering all the cozy flavors of apple, cinnamon, and sweet glaze without the deep-frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these fritters are soft, spiced, and filled with juicy apple chunks. The baked method makes them easier to prepare and a bit healthier while still delivering indulgent satisfaction.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flourbaking powdersugarcinnamon nutmeg salt eggswhole milkvanilla extractunsalted butterapples (peeled, cored, and diced)confectioners’ sugarmaple syrup or milk (for the glaze)
directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.
Gently stir in the diced apples.
Scoop large spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
While the fritters cool slightly, mix confectioners’ sugar with maple syrup or milk to create a smooth glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 10–12 fritters.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 15–18 minutesCooling and glazing time: 10 minutesTotal time: 40–45 minutes
Variations
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Use a mix of apple varieties for added depth of flavor.
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar instead of glaze for a simpler finish.
Add a pinch of cardamom or clove for a warmer spice profile.
storage/reheating
Store baked apple fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.For longer storage, freeze unglazed fritters and glaze after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple?
Yes, but firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best for texture and flavor.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother bite, but it’s optional if you prefer more texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
What can I use instead of maple syrup in the glaze?
You can use milk, water, or apple juice as a substitute.
Can I fry this recipe instead of baking?
This batter is best suited for baking. For fried fritters, use a different dough with yeast or less liquid.
Why are my fritters too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter, and ensure your baking powder is fresh.
Can I add raisins or cranberries?
Yes, dried fruits can be added for extra sweetness and texture.
Do I need a muffin pan?
No, these are freeform fritters baked directly on a baking sheet.
Conclusion
Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious and comforting way to enjoy a classic pastry with less effort and oil. They’re quick to make, bursting with apple flavor, and finished with a sweet glaze that ties everything together. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Print
Baked Apple Fritters
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These baked apple fritters are a healthier twist on the classic fried treat, made with fresh apples and warm spices, then baked to golden perfection and glazed for extra sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1–2 tbsp milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
- Scoop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet using a large spoon or ice cream scoop.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the fritters are baking, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Let the fritters cool slightly, then drizzle with the glaze before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
- Let the fritters cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.