Apple Fritters are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn in every bite. These golden, fluffy nuggets of heaven combine tender diced apples with warm spices, all enveloped in a light crispy fried dough and finished with a luscious vanilla glaze. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack, these Apple Fritters offer a comforting and irresistible experience that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making perfect Apple Fritters. Each component plays a vital role—from the flour providing the structure, to the apples lending juicy sweetness, and the spices adding warmth that makes every bite magical.

2 Cups All Purpose Flour: The base that creates the perfect light yet sturdy batter.
2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar: Adds richness and subtle caramel notes to the dough.
2 Tablespoons Granulated Sugar: For a touch of balanced sweetness.
2 teaspoons Baking Powder: Ensures your fritters rise beautifully and become fluffy.
1 teaspoon Cinnamon: Brings that classic warm spice every apple treat needs.
1/2 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/8 teaspoon Nutmeg (Optional): Adds a subtle nutty depth, perfect for a cozy twist.
2 Large Eggs (Beaten): Bind everything together and add richness.
3/4 Cup Milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
3 Tablespoons Butter (Melted): Infuses the batter with a gentle buttery flavor.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Lifts all the flavors with a sweet aromatic touch.
3 Honeycrisp or Granny Smith Apples (Peeled and Diced): Crisp, tart apples that add both texture and fresh flavor.
Vegetable or Canola Oil (for frying): Ideal for frying to a perfect golden crisp without overpowering.
2 Cups Powdered Sugar: For the glaze, wrapping each fritter in sweet goodness.
1/4 Cup Milk: Balances the powdered sugar into a smooth glaze.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for glaze): Adds warmth and sweetness to the glaze.
Pinch Salt (for glaze): Enhances the glaze’s flavor complexity.
Pinch Ground Cinnamon (for glaze): A lovely finishing touch that ties everything together.

How to Make Apple Fritters

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg in a large bowl. This combination is what gives your Apple Fritters their signature spicy-sweet base and texture.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk the beaten eggs with milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This step creates a smooth mixture that will bring moisture and flavor to your fritters.

Step 3: Bring it All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring just until combined to avoid a dense texture. Next, carefully fold in the diced apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed but not bruised or mashed.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Fill a large pot or Dutch oven with 2 to 3 cups of vegetable or canola oil and heat over medium until it reaches about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper oil temperature is crucial for evenly cooked, crispy Apple Fritters that are golden on the outside and tender inside.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

Drop 1/4 cup portions of batter into the hot oil, frying only two at a time to keep the temperature steady. Cook each fritter for about 4 minutes, flipping halfway through until beautifully golden on both sides. Remove to paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon together until smooth. Once the fritters have cooled slightly but are still warm, either dunk them into the glaze or drizzle generously on top for that signature sweet finish.

How to Serve Apple Fritters

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Apple Fritters with a little extra cinnamon or powdered sugar for an inviting final touch. Fresh apple slices or a dusting of nutmeg can also elevate the look and flavor, making them even more irresistible at the table.

Side Dishes

Apple Fritters pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. For breakfast or brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or a cup of spiced coffee to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Apple Fritters in a rustic basket lined with parchment or stack them on a vintage plate with drizzles of caramel sauce. You can even thread small skewers through mini fritters for a fun and shareable party snack that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Fritters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their crispness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing

If you want to save Apple Fritters for longer, freeze them individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months and are a fantastic quick treat to have on hand.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated Apple Fritters in a toaster oven or regular oven set at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect crunchy texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Fritters?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great for their tartness and texture, you can experiment with Fuji or Gala for a sweeter flavor. Just make sure the apples hold up well when cooked.

Is it possible to bake Apple Fritters instead of frying?

You can bake them, but frying gives Apple Fritters their signature crispy exterior and tender inside. Baking will yield a softer texture and less browning, but it’s a good alternative for a lighter version.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

The oil should reach around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a kitchen thermometer is best, but you can also test by dropping a small bit of batter in; it should sizzle immediately and float to the top.

Can I make the glaze without vanilla extract?

Yes, you can omit the vanilla extract, but it adds a lovely warmth and depth to the glaze. If you skip it, consider adding a tiny splash of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon to keep things flavorful.

How should I store leftover glaze?

Store leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using as it may thicken or separate slightly when chilled.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing Apple Fritters. These little pockets of joy combine simple ingredients to create a dessert or snack that feels like a warm hug. Next time you want to treat yourself (or friends), give this recipe a whirl—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

Apple Fritters Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 18 reviews

Author: Harry
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10–12 fritters 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious homemade apple fritters with a crispy golden exterior and a soft, tender interior filled with sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Instructions

Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until well combined to create the dry mix base.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, combine the beaten eggs with milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract; whisk thoroughly to blend.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, then fold in the diced apples evenly throughout the batter.
Heat Oil: Pour 2-3 cups of vegetable or canola oil into a large pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying temperature.
Fry Fritters: Scoop batter by 1/4 cup portions and carefully drop into the hot oil, frying only two fritters at a time. Cook each fritter for about 4 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain Fritters: Remove the cooked fritters using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
Glaze the Fritters: When the fritters are cool enough to handle, dip them into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over the top as desired for a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy fritters.
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.
The glaze can be adjusted for thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
Fry fritters in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American