Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you love the cozy sweetness of old-fashioned apple fritters but not the oily mess of frying, this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is your perfect compromise. These golden bites are light, tender, and filled with warm cinnamon-spiced apple pieces that practically melt in your mouth. Baking them means you get all the flavor and nostalgia without the guilt or splattering oil.

They’re ideal for a crisp fall morning, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a late-night dessert craving you can actually feel good about. Let’s be honest: once your kitchen fills with the scent of apples and vanilla, there’s no turning back.

Ingredients for Baked Apple Fritters

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) milk
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Glaze

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures the spices and leaveners are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but scoopable—don’t overmix! Fold in the diced apples until evenly coated.

Step 5: Shape & Bake

Drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared sheet, leaving space between each mound. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. The edges should be lightly crisp while the centers stay soft.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the fritters bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. It should drizzle slowly off the spoon—add a touch more milk if too thick.

Step 7: Glaze & Serve

Let fritters cool for 5 minutes, then drizzle with glaze. The heat will help it set into a glossy, sweet finish. Serve warm for that just-baked magic.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Baked Apple Fritters

• Use crisp apples: Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness.
• Don’t overmix the batter — it keeps the fritters tender.
• Keep an eye on color: Golden edges and a soft center mean they’re done.
• For extra flavor, toss the diced apples in cinnamon sugar before folding into the batter.
• Want more crunch? Add chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Flavor Variations: Add raisins, drizzle with caramel, or dust with cinnamon sugar instead of glaze.

Serving & Storage Ideas

Serving Suggestions

Serve your baked apple fritters warm with:

• A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for a dessert feel
• Hot coffee, chai, or spiced cider for a cozy pairing

Storage

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
• Freeze: Freeze unglazed fritters for up to 2 months. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, then glaze fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of apples are best for baked apple fritters?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are top picks—they hold their shape while providing the perfect tart-sweet balance.

Do I need to peel the apples?

It’s optional! Peeled apples blend seamlessly into the batter, but leaving the peel adds color and a rustic texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe doubles perfectly—just rotate baking sheets halfway through for even browning.

How thick should the glaze be?

It should coat the back of a spoon and drip slowly. If it runs too fast, add more powdered sugar.

Why are my fritters flat?

Flat fritters usually mean overmixing or old baking powder. Use fresh leavening and fold gently for that fluffy rise.

Nutrition Information (per fritter)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Baked fritters have roughly 40% fewer calories and 60% less fat than traditional fried ones.

There’s something quietly wonderful about these Baked Apple Fritters, soft, golden, and just sweet enough to make any morning feel special. They’re proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated (or deep-fried) to taste like home.

So preheat that oven, grab your favorite apples, and bake a batch you’ll want to share, though, fair warning, they might not last that long.

Did you make this recipe?

Share it in the comments—I’d love to see how yours turned out!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?