Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

The Fluffiest Baked Apple Fritters Recipe for Sweet Breakfast Joy

Sweet, golden-brown baked apple fritters dance with irresistible charm on the plate.

These delectable treats blend warm cinnamon and crisp apple chunks into a delightful pastry.

Soft, pillowy dough cradles tender apple pieces that melt in your mouth.

Every bite promises a comforting explosion of autumn-inspired flavors.

The recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional deep-fried fritters without sacrificing an ounce of deliciousness.

Drizzled with a light glaze, these fritters transform an ordinary morning into a celebration of seasonal goodness.

What’s Needed for Baked Apple Fritters

Core Ingredients:
  • Flour: The main dry ingredient that provides structure to the fritters.
  • Apples: Fresh diced fruits that give the fritters their signature flavor and texture.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the batter.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth and moist batter.
Spices and Sweeteners:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that enhance the apple flavor and add depth.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and help with caramelization.
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth and sweet glaze for the fritters.
Baking and Binding Ingredients:
  • Baking Powder: Helps the fritters rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a rich and aromatic flavor to both the batter and glaze.
  • Butter, Lemon Juice, Salt: Support ingredients that improve flavor and prevent browning.

How to Make Apple Fritters in the Oven

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 350°F.

Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 2: Rescue The Apples

Toss chopped apples with a splash of lemon juice in a small bowl.

This magical trick keeps them looking fresh and prevents browning.

Step 3: Create The Dry Magic

In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Blend these ingredients until they’re perfectly combined.

Step 4: Mix The Wet Wonders

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Melted butter

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Marry The Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Stir gently until just combined.

Fold in the apple chunks with love and care.

Step 6: Shape The Fritters

Scoop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet.

Shape them into adorable little mounds that look like rustic fritters.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven.

Bake for 15-18 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Check doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 8: Whip Up The Glaze

While fritters are baking, create a dreamy glaze by whisking:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cinnamon (optional)

Stir until silky smooth.

Step 9: Dress The Fritters

Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle or dip them in the luscious glaze.

Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Moist, Fluffy Apple Fritters

  • Toss diced apples with lemon juice immediately after cutting to maintain their fresh, crisp appearance and stop oxidation.
  • Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can create tough, dense fritters.
  • Adjust powdered sugar or milk in the glaze to create a smooth, drizzle-able coating that sets beautifully on warm fritters.
  • Experiment with adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to enhance the warm spice profile of the fritters.
  • Store glazed fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Apple Fritter Variations and Add-Ins

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a celiac-friendly option.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute egg with flax egg, use plant-based milk, and swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar, reduce overall sugar content, and opt for sugar-free glaze made with stevia.
  • Keto-Friendly Remix: Swap wheat flour with almond flour or coconut flour, use sugar substitute like erythritol, and add cream cheese to increase fat content for a low-carb version.

Fun Serving Ideas for Baked Apple Fritters

  • Sweet Breakfast Companion: Pair these warm fritters with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea for a delightful morning treat.
  • Dessert Transformation: Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent after-dinner dessert that melts in your mouth.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Create an elegant brunch spread by arranging fritters on a rustic wooden board with fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Party Pleaser: Cut fritters into bite-sized pieces for easy finger food at gatherings, perfect for casual get-togethers or potluck events.

How to Store Apple Fritters Overnight

  • Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel between layers to prevent sogginess and maintain texture.
  • Wrap individual fritters tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed fritters at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Spread them on a baking sheet to restore crispness and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Reheat refrigerated fritters for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check every 10 seconds to avoid overcooking and maintain softness.

FAQs

  • Are these apple fritters healthier than traditional fried ones?

Yes, since these are baked instead of deep-fried, they contain less oil and fewer calories while maintaining a delicious flavor and crispy texture.

  • Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Definitely! Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best because they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness.

  • Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Absolutely! The recipe is straightforward, requires basic ingredients, and doesn’t need complex techniques, making it perfect for those new to baking or wanting an easy dessert.

Baked Apple Fritters for Cozy Mornings

  • Bake Without Guilt: Enjoy a healthier version of classic apple fritters that are oven-baked instead of deep-fried, cutting down on excess oil and calories.
  • Quick Family Treat: Whip up these delightful fritters with simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it a perfect last-minute dessert that brings everyone together.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by changing spices, adding nuts, or experimenting with different types of apples to match your taste preferences.
  • Beginner Baker Friendly: Simple mixing technique and straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible for novice bakers looking to boost their confidence in the kitchen.
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Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe


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4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Homemade apple fritters bring rustic comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, with golden crispy exteriors and warm cinnamon-spiced centers. Sweet apple chunks nestled in light, airy batter create a delightful dessert you cannot resist trying right now.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Wet Ingredients and Additions:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light grease coating.
  2. Cut apples into small cubes and gently coat with lemon juice to maintain their fresh appearance, then set aside.
  3. Create a dry mixture by combining flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and both granulated and brown sugars in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a separate container, whisk together egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well incorporated.
  5. Gently fold the liquid ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring minimally to avoid overmixing. Carefully incorporate the prepared apple cubes into the batter.
  6. Using a spoon, distribute the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming rustic rounded fritter shapes with slight peaks and valleys.
  7. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, monitoring until the fritters develop a golden-brown exterior and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. While the fritters are baking, craft a smooth glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and optional ground cinnamon until achieving a silky consistency.
  9. After the fritters have cooled slightly, generously drizzle or dip each fritter into the prepared glaze, allowing the coating to set before serving.

Notes

  • Control apple browning by tossing them quickly in lemon juice to maintain fresh color and prevent oxidation.
  • Avoid overmixing batter to keep fritters light and tender, which prevents developing tough gluten networks.
  • Customize fritters by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
  • Create gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free blend for dietary accommodations.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 177 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 136 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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