Baked Apple Fritters

Baked Apple Fritters are soft, fluffy, and filled with warm spiced apples, all without the mess of frying. These sweet treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Made with fresh apple chunks, cinnamon, and a simple glaze, they deliver the same comforting flavor as classic apple fritters — just a little lighter and easier to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No frying required — healthier and less cleanup
• Filled with juicy apples and warm spices
• Great for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Can be glazed, dusted with sugar, or enjoyed plain

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Eggs
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Melted butter or oil
• Apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)

For the glaze (optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Milk or cream
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, then stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter or oil.
4. Combine Batter: Add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
5. Scoop and Shape: Drop heaping spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping slightly into fritter mounds.
6. Bake: Bake for 14–18 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool slightly.
7. Glaze (Optional): Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle or dip the fritters in the glaze while they’re still warm.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the glaze set slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10–12 fritters
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Spice it up: Add extra cinnamon or a pinch of clove or allspice.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Apple variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter ones like Honeycrisp based on your preference.
• Cinnamon sugar topping: Instead of glaze, brush with butter and roll in cinnamon sugar while warm.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore texture.

FAQs

What are baked apple fritters?

They’re sweet, cake-like treats filled with apples and warm spices, baked instead of fried.

Can I use canned apples or pie filling?

Fresh apples are best, but canned can work if well-drained and chopped. Reduce sugar slightly if using sweetened filling.

Why are my fritters too soft?

They may be underbaked or have too much moisture. Be sure to measure ingredients properly and bake until golden.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best used fresh, but you can chop apples and prep dry and wet ingredients separately to save time.

What apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala are also delicious.

Can I freeze baked apple fritters?

Yes, freeze once cooled. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Glaze after reheating for best texture.

Do I have to glaze them?

No, they’re tasty on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.

Can I make them in a muffin tin?

Yes! Spoon batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 15–20 minutes for apple fritter muffins.

How do I keep fritters moist?

Don’t overbake, and store in an airtight container once completely cooled.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use two baking sheets or bake in batches for best results.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect cozy treat when you want all the flavor of a classic fritter without frying. With crisp-tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a light glaze, they’re an easy and irresistible addition to your breakfast or dessert table. Fast, fuss-free, and full of comfort — this recipe is one to keep on repeat.

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