If you’re the kind of person who swoons at the scent of spiced apples and dreams of cozy bakery treats, then Baked Apple Fritters are calling your name! These golden gems deliver all the nostalgia of classic fritters—with warm, pillowy centers and that signature apple-cinnamon pop—but rely on your oven, not a frying pan. Imagine pulling a tray from the oven and drizzling each fritter with silky vanilla glaze, creating a treat that feels indulgent yet light enough to enjoy anytime. Whether for a celebratory breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet shareable dessert, Baked Apple Fritters fit seamlessly into moments big and small.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things surprisingly simple, letting each ingredient shine in all the right ways. With just a handful of pantry and fridge staples plus fresh apples, you’ll be amazed at how these pieces come together for that perfect flavor and fluffy texture.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of the dough, creating just the right structure for tender fritters.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter, balancing the tartness of the apples and spices.
- Baking powder: This is your secret for a lofty, cake-like crumb in each fritter.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and heightens the apple-cinnamon goodness.
- Ground cinnamon: The classic spice that makes each bite taste like a warm hug.
- Ground nutmeg: A subtle, aromatic lift that adds just the right amount of autumn flair.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together for a rich, cohesive batter.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture for a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Unsalted butter, melted and cooled: For that unmistakable richness and extra depth of flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Ties all the sweet and spiced notes together beautifully.
- Peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): They bring bursts of juicy tartness in every bite—choose your favorite variety!
- Powdered sugar: The star of the glaze, lending that classic, sweet finish.
- Milk (for glaze): Just enough to create a drizzle-ready consistency.
- Vanilla extract (for glaze): Another hit of warmth to seal the deal on your fritters’ topping.
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps the fritters from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It may sound simple, but this step sets you up for perfect fritters every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a big bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these first ensures every fritter is infused with just the right hint of spice and sweetness throughout. Don’t skip the thorough whisk—it helps distribute the leavening agent for a beautifully even rise.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
Take a second bowl and blend the eggs, milk, melted-and-cooled butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is silky and uniform. This little step guarantees richness and gives the fritters a bakery-worthy tenderness.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together—just until the flour disappears. Resist the urge to overmix! Overworking can make your fritters tough, and we’re after a light, plush bite.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Now for the best part: fresh apples! Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring every scoop is dotted with juicy fruit. Want to take things up a notch? Toss the apples in a bit of cinnamon sugar before folding them in for an extra pop of flavor.
Step 6: Form the Fritters
Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter for each fritter onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave a couple of inches between each scoop, so they bake evenly and get those inviting, bakery-style edges. Slightly flatten the tops with the back of a spoon for the classic fritter look and even baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 14-16 minutes. Keep an eye out: you want them just golden, and a toothpick poked in the center should come out clean. Right out of the oven, the kitchen will smell like pure apple-cinnamon bliss!
Step 8: Glaze and Finish
While the fritters cool for a few minutes, whisk up a quick glaze with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. When the fritters are warm (but not piping hot), drizzle the glaze generously over each one. Let it set, then get ready to experience the magic of homemade Baked Apple Fritters.
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Garnishes
A simple sugar glaze is classic, but don’t hold back if you want to zhuzh things up. Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Sliced apples or a few toasted nuts scattered on top can make your Baked Apple Fritters feel even more special.
Side Dishes
For breakfast, consider pairing your fritters with Greek yogurt, crispy bacon, or a big bowl of fruit salad. If you’re serving them as a snack, a mug of coffee or chai fits right in. For dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a warm fritter is simply irresistible.
Creative Ways to Present
Baked Apple Fritters are naturally charming, but you can serve them on a wooden board for a rustic vibe, stack them high on a cake stand, or wrap them in parchment for a portable treat. Mini versions in muffin liners make great grab-and-go snacks, and arranging them with edible flowers gives any brunch table a pop of pizzazz.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Baked Apple Fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You’ll want to make sure they’re completely cool before closing them up to preserve their lovely texture and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Baked Apple Fritters! Place cooled fritters on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When that apple-cinnamon craving hits, just remove as many as you need. They’ll keep for up to two months in the freezer.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked taste, pop fritters into a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or heat gently in the microwave using short bursts. If you’ve frozen them, let them thaw at room temperature before reheating for best results. A quick warm-up revives the glaze and soft crumb beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast, Snack
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are top choices for their sweet-tart flavor and firmness, you can use almost any apple variety you love. Just make sure to choose apples that hold up well during baking and adjust sweetness to taste if using a sweeter apple.
Can I make Baked Apple Fritters dairy-free?
Yes, you can. Swap the whole milk for a non-dairy alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter or coconut oil. The results are still tender and flavorful, so everyone can enjoy a bite.
What’s the best way to keep Baked Apple Fritters moist?
Storing the fritters in an airtight container is key. If you live in a dry climate or they’ve become a little firm, a few seconds in the microwave or wrapped in foil in a low oven will help restore their lovely, moist crumb.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and bake fritters in batches if needed. The method remains the same, so you can treat a big brunch crowd or stash extras for the week.
Are Baked Apple Fritters healthier than fried ones?
Since these fritters are baked and not deep-fried, they naturally have less fat and fewer calories while keeping all the delicious flavor and texture you crave. If you’re looking for a lighter way to enjoy a classic treat, this recipe fits the bill without compromise.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wanted all the cozy, nostalgic joy of apple fritters without the hassle of frying, you’re going to absolutely love these Baked Apple Fritters. They’re simple to whip up, endlessly comforting, and sure to bring smiles to anyone lucky enough to try one. Treat yourself—your kitchen will smell incredible, and your tastebuds will thank you!
Print
Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make baked apple fritters that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. These fritters are filled with diced apples and warm spices, then baked to a golden perfection. Drizzled with a sweet glaze, they are a delightful treat for any time of day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additions:
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
- Add apples: Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Bake: Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter for each fritter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 14-16 minutes or until golden.
- Prepare glaze: While the fritters are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze.
- Glaze and serve: Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over each fritter and let it set before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toss the diced apples in a little cinnamon sugar before folding into the batter.
- These are best enjoyed fresh on the same day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
