Baked Apple Fritters
Baked apple fritters are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of baked apples with a soft, doughy texture. I remember the first time I made these—my kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, instantly putting me in a cozy mood. They’re perfect for a lazy Saturday brunch or an afternoon snack, and they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for any level of home cook. Plus, they bring a taste of fall to your table any time of year.
What makes this recipe special
You might wonder why you should consider making baked apple fritters at home. For starters, they are incredibly budget-friendly. With simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious dessert that impresses! These fritters are perfect for sharing—everyone loves them warm, especially when drizzled with that sweet glaze. Plus, baking instead of frying makes them a healthier alternative, allowing you to indulge guilt-free.
"These baked apple fritters are a game-changer! They were so easy to make, and the kids just loved them. I’ll definitely be adding this to our family favorites!" – A happy reader.
Preparing Baked Apple Fritters
Making baked apple fritters is straightforward and can be divided into a few simple steps. You’ll be mixing dry ingredients, preparing a wet mixture, combining the two, and then baking them to golden perfection. It’s that easy! Here’s an outline of the process:
- Preheat your oven and prepare the baking sheet.
- Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl while whisking the wet ingredients in another.
- Combine both mixtures and fold in the diced apples.
- Bake until golden brown and finish with a sweet glaze.
Let’s dive into what you’ll need.
What you’ll need
Here’s a list of ingredients for your baked apple fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Glaze: powdered sugar and milk
If you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or swap in almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to prepare your baked apple fritters:
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
- Fold in the diced apples with gentle strokes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter.
- Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Allow the fritters to cool slightly before drizzling them with a glaze made from stirring powdered sugar and milk to your desired thickness.
Best ways to enjoy it
To enjoy your baked apple fritters, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or serving them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or cinnamon tea, making them a perfect treat for chilly afternoons. For a fun twist, try topping them with chopped nuts or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you manage to have some fritters left over (which rarely happens in my house!), it’s important to store them properly. Place them in an airtight container; they’ll last in the refrigerator for about 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few extra tips to elevate your baked apple fritters:
- Make sure your apples are crisp and firm for the best texture. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith varieties work beautifully.
- Don’t be tempted to overmix the batter, as it can lead to dense fritters. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Experiment with different spices—adding a pinch of ginger or allspice can give your fritters an exciting twist.
Creative twists
Think outside the box with your baked apple fritters! You could experiment with flavors by adding chocolate chips or caramel swirls to the batter. For a savory kick, consider including some chopped walnuts or pecans. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting other fruits, such as pears or even berries, for a delightful change.
Common questions
What is the prep time for baked apple fritters?
Preparation time typically takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for baking.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
For optimal freshness, it’s best to prepare the batter and bake the fritters immediately. If you need to prep ahead, consider chopping the apples and measuring out the dry ingredients, then mixing shortly before baking.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check if it includes a binding agent such as xanthan gum.
Enjoy your baking adventure with these delicious baked apple fritters!

Baked Apple Fritters
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon Feel free to experiment with different spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients & Apples
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced Honeycrisp or Granny Smith varieties work best.
- 1/2 cup milk Can be substituted with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Glaze
- to taste powdered sugar Mixed with milk to desired thickness.
- to taste milk Used to adjust glaze consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
- Fold in the diced apples with gentle strokes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter.
Baking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before drizzling with the sweet glaze.