If you’re searching for a comforting treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist, this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is about to become your new kitchen hero. Imagine tender chunks of juicy apple hugged by a spiced, golden batter and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze—all without a drop of frying oil in sight! Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend brunch or simply want to use up those apples in your fruit bowl, this recipe delivers joy in every bite, right from your oven.

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is in its simplicity: every ingredient plays an important role, bringing flavor, texture, or color to the final treat. Keep these kitchen basics on hand and you’ll be just a few steps away from fritter bliss!

All-purpose flour: Keeps the fritters soft but sturdy, serving as the base for the batter.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the fritters themselves.
Baking powder: Helps the fritters puff up for a light, cakey texture.
Baking soda: Works with the baking powder for extra lift and tenderness.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors so every bite pops.
Cinnamon: Brings the classic warm spice flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
Nutmeg: Adds a little depth, giving a nostalgic aroma to the fritters.
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Their crisp texture and tartness stand out in every bite—don’t skip peeling and dicing!
Eggs: Bind everything together and create a rich, tender crumb.
Milk: Keeps the batter moist, ensuring the fritters bake up soft and delicious.
Unsalted butter, melted: Adds flavor and helps with that irresistible, tender center.
Vanilla extract: Gives the fritters and the glaze a cozy, aromatic note.
Powdered sugar: The key ingredient for a smooth, sweet glaze.
Additional milk (for glaze): Creates a drizzle that sets beautifully on the fritters.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking—this little detail guarantees golden bottoms on your fritters and means you’ll spend less time scrubbing later!

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It’s essential to mix these thoroughly so every fritter gets an equal hit of flavor and rises evenly as it bakes.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth. The melted butter needs to be just slightly cooled so it doesn’t scramble the eggs—combine patiently, and your fritter crumb will thank you!

Step 4: Make the Batter & Fold in Apples

Gently add your dry mix into the wet ingredients, stirring just until no dry streaks remain. The key here is not to over-mix; you want a fluffy, tender cake, not a tough one. Fold in your diced apples until they’re evenly distributed—every spoonful of batter should have plenty of apple bits.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto your lined baking sheet, making sure there’s a little space between each one for spreading. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until your fritters are puffed and turning a beautiful golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the fritters are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny—adjust with a dash of milk or extra powdered sugar, as needed.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Allow the fritters to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they’re still slightly warm, drizzle generously with the vanilla glaze so it melts into all the nooks and crannies. Serve warm for the dreamiest, melt-in-your-mouth experience!

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Garnishes

A little extra love never hurts—sprinkle your glazed fritters with a dusting of cinnamon or a light snowfall of powdered sugar for added elegance. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few toasted chopped pecans or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can take these over the top!

Side Dishes

Enjoy your Baked Apple Fritters Recipe as a standalone treat, or pair them with fresh fruit, a simple yogurt parfait, or a cozy mug of spiced chai. They’re just as wonderful alongside bacon and eggs for brunch, adding a sweet note to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, stack warm fritters on a rustic wooden board and serve with little bowls of extra glaze for dipping. You can also skewer mini fritters for party appetizers or tuck them into parchment-lined baskets for a country bakery vibe. Presentation is as fun as eating them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; their texture stays lovely, especially if you let them cool completely before packing.

Freezing

These fritters freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled, unglazed fritters in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze just before serving for bakery-fresh results.

Reheating

To bring fritters back to life, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds. If they’re glazed, expect a little melted sweetness—just as delicious, if not more!

FAQs

Can I use different apples for the Baked Apple Fritters Recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are favorites for their texture and tang, you can use any apple you love or have on hand. Just aim for varieties that hold their shape when baked—Fuji and Pink Lady work great too.

Can I make this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Most commercial blends produce very similar results, you may need to keep an eye on the texture and bake time for best results.

How do I know when my fritters are ready?

Your fritters are done when they’re puffed, lightly golden, and a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Don’t worry if the apples keep the centers slightly moist—the exterior should be firm and springy.

Can I make the Baked Apple Fritters Recipe without eggs?

You can! Replace the eggs with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, then let sit for 5 minutes). The result is slightly denser but still very tasty.

What’s the best way to store my glaze if I have leftovers?

Leftover glaze will keep in the fridge for up to a week. Just cover it tightly, and if it thickens, whisk in a teaspoon of milk before using. It’s also great drizzled on pancakes or waffles!

Final Thoughts

If you try just one cozy treat this season, make it this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe. There’s something magical about pulling a tray of warm fritters from the oven, filling your home with sweet cinnamon and apple aroma. Your friends and family will be coming back for seconds—so don’t be surprised if these quickly become your signature treat. Happy baking!

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 12 fritters 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the flavors of sweet apples with warm spices. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these fritters make a delicious breakfast or dessert option.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Make the Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in the diced apples.
Shape & Bake: Drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
Prepare the Glaze: While fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Glaze & Serve: Let the fritters cool slightly before drizzling with glaze. Enjoy warm!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American