If you’re craving a warm, cozy treat that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly balanced sweetness, this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These fritters are tender on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior, packed with juicy diced apples and a hint of cinnamon that instantly transports you to crisp autumn mornings. Unlike traditional fried versions, baking them makes the process simpler and a bit lighter while still giving you that irresistible comfort food vibe. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or a delightful dessert, this recipe blends ease, taste, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these baked apple fritters lies in a handful of simple, familiar ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays an important role—from creating the right texture to layering in warm flavors and delivering a lovely golden color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the fritters, providing the perfect base to hold everything together.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples without overwhelming them.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the fritters rise and stay fluffy inside.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for a tender crumb and slight lift.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Brings that classic warm spice note, perfectly paired with apples.
- 2 large apples (peeled and diced): The star ingredient offering juicy bursts of fruity goodness in each bite.
- 2 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the ingredients together.
- ½ cup milk: Ensures the batter is smooth and moist for tender fritters.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds a lovely richness and buttery flavor throughout.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Essential for that sweet, glossy finish that takes these fritters over the top.
- 2 tbsp milk (for glaze): Thins out the glaze so it can be drizzled easily over the warm treats.
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Prep Ready
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your fritters bake evenly without sticking, making clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Whisking them together ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, giving your fritters a consistent rise and flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, melted unsalted butter, and a splash of vanilla extract, if you have some on hand. Whisk until everything comes together smoothly, creating a creamy, inviting mixture that will bind the dry ingredients perfectly.
Step 4: Combine and Add the Apples
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined — be careful not to overmix or your fritters could become tough. Gently stir in the diced apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter so every fritter gets a juicy apple surprise.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Drop spoonfuls of batter onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to give the fritters room to puff up as they bake. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fritters have turned a beautiful golden brown and spring back when touched. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze and Drizzle
While your fritters are baking, whisk together powdered sugar with the 2 tablespoons of milk and a touch of vanilla extract if desired. Once the fritters come straight out of the oven, drizzle this shiny glaze over the warm fritters, letting it melt slightly and add that extra layer of sweetness and charm.
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your baked apple fritters with a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar for a picture-perfect touch. Fresh apple slices or a pinch of chopped nuts can also bring a wonderful texture and visual appeal right to your plate.
Side Dishes
These fritters shine when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert. For a breakfast twist, serve alongside a cup of spiced chai tea or hot coffee—the comforting flavors complement each other beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your baked apple fritters with layers of cream cheese frosting or maple syrup for a decadent brunch centerpiece. You could even use the batter to make mini fritter muffins by spooning portions into a muffin tin—perfect for portable little snacks everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The fritters stay soft but still hold their shape, making them easy to enjoy with morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Freezing
Baked apple fritters freeze well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored like this for up to three months, so you can enjoy this delicious treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop frozen or refrigerated fritters into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes. This restores their crisp edges and warms the juicy apple bits inside, bringing back that fresh-out-of-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to the sweet batter, sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp will give a milder flavor. Mix them up to suit your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for making gluten-free fritters?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Just make sure your blend is suited for baking to maintain the right texture.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, and raisins bring bursts of extra sweetness. Fold them in with the apples in step 4 for a personalized twist.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?
You can make a simple drizzle using honey or maple syrup as an alternative glaze. Though it won’t have the same texture as powdered sugar glaze, it adds a lovely natural sweetness and sheen nonetheless.
How do I prevent the fritters from sticking to the baking sheet?
Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is key to easy removal. If neither is available, lightly greasing the baking sheet will help, but be aware that the texture on the bottom might not be as nice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyous about making this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe at home. It’s a simple yet fantastic way to bring the flavors of the season into your kitchen any time of year. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo, I promise these baked fritters will make your day just a bit sweeter. Go ahead, give this recipe a whirl and watch it become a treasured staple in your recipe collection!
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Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters (approximately 12 servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier twist on the traditional fried version, delivering tender, cinnamon-spiced apple treats baked to golden perfection. Lightly sweetened and drizzled with a simple powdered sugar glaze, they’re perfect for a breakfast snack or dessert that’s easy to make and irresistible.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the fritters don’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Then gently fold in the peeled and diced apples, being careful not to overmix.
- Form and Bake Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the fritters turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the fritters are slightly cooled but still warm, drizzle the glaze over them. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute apples with pears for a different fruity flavor.
- For a crispier texture, sprinkle some sugar on fritters before baking.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk used.
- Ensure apples are diced small so they bake through evenly.
- Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
