Baked apple fritters are soft, sweet, and bursting with warm apple flavor. Covered in a smooth glaze, these treats are a yummy way to enjoy a classic dessert without frying!
I love making these because they fill the kitchen with the best aroma. Plus, they’re a healthier option! Perfect with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack any time of day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples add a tart flavor that balances the sweetness. Fuji apples are sweeter and great too! If you have other varieties on hand, use those! Mix in different types for added flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your fritters. If you’re gluten-free, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve tried both, and they work well!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is perfect, but you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Coconut sugar is also a great option if you’re looking for something more natural.
Milk: I use whole milk, but any milk works. Almond, oat, and soy milk are good dairy-free choices, too. Adjust the amount to achieve the right batter consistency.
How Do I Ensure My Fritters Are Soft Inside and Crisp Outside?
The key to perfect fritters lies in baking them at the right temperature and time. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven before putting the fritters in; this ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Give each fritter enough space to expand and crisp up.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Start with 15 minutes, and check for a light golden color and a toothpick that comes out clean—this shows they are cooked through!
- Let them cool slightly on a wire rack to help retain that lovely crispiness.
With these tips, you’ll have warm, fluffy fritters that are delightful every time! Enjoy your baking adventure!
Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk (adjust as needed for consistency)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-18 minutes for baking, totaling around 30 minutes. Allow a few extra minutes to cool and glaze your fritters. They’ll be ready in no time for a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent your fritters from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). This combination creates a flavorful and fluffy base for your fritters.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Then add the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix everything together until well incorporated. This mixture will bring richness and moisture to the fritters.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Folding the mixture helps keep your fritters light and fluffy.
5. Add the Apples:
Fold in the finely chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The apples will add delicious chunks of sweetness in every bite!
6. Form the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart so they have room to expand.
7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Set your timer and enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen!
8. Make the Glaze:
While the fritters are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Adjust the milk as needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.
9. Cool and Glaze the Fritters:
Once baked, carefully remove the fritters from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This helps keep them from becoming soggy. Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters for that sweet finishing touch!
10. Enjoy!
Let the glaze set for a few minutes, and then they’re ready to be enjoyed! These warm, baked apple fritters are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy their delightful taste with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are great choices, you can use any apples you have on hand. Sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala can add a wonderful flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar if your apples are very sweet!
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It usually works well in this recipe, maintaining the soft texture of the fritters.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just reheat in an oven for a few minutes to regain their freshness!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Batter?
Definitely! Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or cranberries for a tart twist. Just make sure not to overpower the apple flavor!
