Warm Baked Apple Fritters
Apple fritters are one of those timeless bakery treats that bring instant comfort with every bite. Traditionally, fritters are deep-fried, but this baked version delivers all the cozy flavors you love with less mess and a lighter finish. Tender chunks of apple are nestled into a cinnamon-spiced batter, baked until golden brown, then drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze. Warm, soft on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness on the outside — these baked apple fritters are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Fritters
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk works best)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith, Gala, or Honeycrisp recommended)
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a standard muffin tin or baking tray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. This ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the fritters dense.
Step 5: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they’re evenly spread throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin or shape small mounds on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Glaze
While the fritters are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle generously over the baked fritters.
Step 8: Serve
Enjoy warm, straight from the oven, with a cup of coffee or tea.
Variations
- Caramel Apple Fritters: Drizzle warm fritters with caramel sauce instead of glaze.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Brush baked fritters with melted butter and roll them in cinnamon sugar.
- Nutty Fritters: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for crunch.
- Raisin Twist: Fold in a handful of golden raisins with the apples.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for part of the milk in the glaze for a fall-inspired touch.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days; reheat gently before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap fritters individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Pro Tips
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tang.
- Don’t overmix the batter — it keeps the fritters light and fluffy.
- Dice apples into small chunks so they bake evenly.
- Glaze fritters while warm so it seeps slightly into the surface for extra sweetness.
- For bakery-style shine, double glaze after the first layer sets.
Nutritional Information (per fritter, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 215 |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the fritters, cool completely, and store in an airtight container. Warm them before serving and glaze fresh if possible.
Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly since pie filling is already sweetened.
Do I have to use a muffin tin?
No. You can bake them free-form on a baking sheet for a rustic look.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Why bake instead of fry?
Baking makes them lighter, easier, and less greasy while still keeping the flavor.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with hot apple cider or chai tea for a cozy fall treat.
- Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream as a dessert.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for brunch presentation.
Final Thoughts
These warm baked apple fritters are a cozy twist on a classic favorite. With tender apples, a spiced batter, and a sweet glaze, they deliver the flavor of traditional fried fritters without the extra oil. Perfect for fall mornings, holiday brunches, or anytime you’re craving a comforting homemade treat, they’re bound to become a repeat recipe in your kitchen.
