If you’ve been on the hunt for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, then you’re going to absolutely adore these Baked Apple Fritters. They combine the crisp, fruity freshness of apples with a tender, cakey texture and a drizzle of luscious glaze that transforms a simple snack into something truly special. The magic of Baked Apple Fritters lies in how each bite bursts with cozy spices and just the right amount of sweetness, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you want a little comfort on a plate.

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Baked Apple Fritters. From the wholesome flours to the spices that give a warm depth, every component matters.

3/4 Cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a soft crumb to the fritters.
3/4 Cup white whole wheat flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness while keeping the texture light.
1/2 Cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses-sweet flavor that complements the spices.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your fritters rise beautifully, giving them a tender lift.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: This warm spice is essential for that classic apple dessert aroma.
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a gentle, nutty spice that enhances the cinnamon.
1/4 teaspoon allspice: Offers a hint of bold, clove-like complexity.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
6 Tablespoons butter, cold and cut into pieces: Gives richness and tenderness to the fritters.
1/2 Cup milk (the higher the fat content, the richer the flavor): Makes the batter silky and moist.
1 egg: Binds everything together and adds a slight richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet, fragrant background note.
1 Cup chopped apple: The star ingredient, offering juicy bursts of freshness and natural sweetness.
1 Cup confectioner’s sugar: Essential for the silky glaze topping.
2 Tablespoons milk (a higher percentage of fat works the best): Helps achieve a smooth glaze.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and aroma to the glaze.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat if you have one that can handle broiling, which helps with cleanup and prevents sticking. If not, you can skip the mat—just expect a little extra scrubbing later. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked fritters with golden bottoms.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. This mix introduces the right balance of sweetness, spice, and leavening to your fritters. Cutting in cold butter until you have coarse crumbs is key—it creates tender pockets in your batter and keeps the texture delightful.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Apples

Whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract in a small bowl, then fold this into the dry ingredients until just combined—overmixing can toughen your fritters, so gentle is the way to go. Finally, gently stir in the chopped apples, which will become juicy treasures throughout each bite.

Step 4: Portion and Bake

Drop the batter by 1/4-cup scoops onto your prepared baking sheet. If you prefer smaller fritters, a heaping tablespoon works great and will yield bite-sized delights. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the bottoms turn golden and the centers are set. Smaller fritters might be done as early as 8 minutes, so keep an eye on them!

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze and Broil

Once the fritters come out of the oven, turn your oven to broil. While it heats, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter, then place them under the broiler for 2-4 minutes. Watch carefully—the glaze will bubble and the tops will turn a gorgeous golden color.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Carefully transfer your fritters to a wire rack and brush on the remaining glaze while they’re still warm. Let the glaze harden for a few minutes before serving to enjoy that perfect crisp sheen with every bite. Freshly baked Baked Apple Fritters are best enjoyed the same day to savor their soft, tender texture and the delightful contrast of glaze.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can elevate your Baked Apple Fritters with extra texture and flavor. For a touch of elegance, a fresh herb like mint or a twist of lemon zest adds a lovely pop of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices.

Side Dishes

Baked Apple Fritters are wonderfully versatile but pair especially well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert. For a brunch setting, consider serving alongside a cup of steaming coffee or spicy chai tea to complement the warm cinnamon notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your fritters stacked like mini pancakes, drizzling extra glaze between the layers. You can also slice them in half, sandwich some cream cheese frosting or apple butter inside, turning them into delightful little handheld treats. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh apple slices or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Baked Apple Fritters, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind they’re at their best fresh, but a same-day storage keeps them soft with the glaze intact.

Freezing

You can freeze these fritters by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Baked Apple Fritters will keep well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this cozy treat anytime you want.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover fritters back to life, heat them in a 350-degree oven for about 5-7 minutes. This warms them evenly and revives the glaze’s subtle crunch. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy and less appealing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for these fritters?

Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness beautifully, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well too. Just make sure to chop them evenly for consistent cooking.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

You can substitute the flours with a gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Adding a bit more moisture or an extra egg can help keep them tender.

Can I make the glaze dairy-free?

Sure! Swap the milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond or coconut milk to keep the glaze creamy without dairy.

How crunchy are Baked Apple Fritters compared to fried fritters?

Since these are baked, they’re softer and cakier than traditional fried fritters, with a gentle crispiness from the glazed tops under the broiler. It’s a lighter, less oily alternative that still satisfies cravings.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or raisins adds extra texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently with the apples to avoid overmixing the batter.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Baked Apple Fritters that feels like a warm kitchen memory in every bite. From the blend of spices to the tender apples baked just right, they’re a delightful way to enjoy apple season or simply treat yourself with a homemade indulgence. I encourage you to try this recipe—you’ll find it as comforting and delicious as I do, sharing it again and again with friends and family.

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 30 reviews

Author: Harry
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8–10 fritters 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Deliciously tender baked apple fritters with a warm cinnamon-spiced batter and a sweet vanilla glaze. These fritters are baked, not fried, making them a lighter yet equally flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat suitable for broiling, or grease your baking sheet if not using a mat.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. This creates a spiced base for the fritters.
Cut in Butter: Cut the cold butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring a tender texture in the baked fritters.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract together until well combined.
Form Batter: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped apple, taking care not to overmix.
Portion Dough: Drop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet by 1/4 cupfuls for regular-sized fritters or heaping tablespoonfuls for smaller ones, spacing them evenly.
Bake the Fritters: Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set. For smaller fritters, start checking around 8 minutes.
Prepare Glaze: While the fritters bake, whisk together confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Broil with Glaze: Remove the fritters to a wire rack and turn the oven to broil. Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter and broil for 2 to 4 minutes until the tops turn golden and the glaze bubbles.
Final Glazing: Carefully remove the sheet and brush remaining glaze onto the warm fritters.
Cool and Serve: Allow the glaze to harden slightly before serving. Best enjoyed the same day for optimal freshness and flavor.

Notes

Using apples like Granny Smith or Fuji provides a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Make sure not to overmix the batter once the wet ingredients are added to keep fritters tender.
You can substitute white whole wheat flour with regular whole wheat flour if preferred.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives.
If you don’t have a silicone baking mat, simply grease the baking sheet; fritters may stick slightly but will still bake well.
The glaze hardens as it cools, adding a pleasant crunchy sweetness to the soft fritters.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert, Breakfast
Method: Baking, Broiling
Cuisine: American