Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Easy Homemade Baked Apple Fritters Recipe for Sweet Moments

Crisp autumn mornings call for warm, golden baked apple fritters that dance with cinnamon-spiced comfort.

These delightful treats blend sweet orchard apples with a tender, pillowy dough that melts in your mouth.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of soft pastry and caramelized fruit goodness.

The homemade baked apple fritters promise a healthier twist on the classic fried version without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.

Fragrant spices and juicy apple chunks create a symphony of taste that beckons you to the kitchen.

Drizzled with a simple glaze, these fritters transform an ordinary morning into a memorable breakfast celebration.

Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible morning delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Baked Apple Fritters

  • Perfect for Baking Beginners who want a straightforward, low-stress dessert that doesn't require advanced pastry skills.
  • Swap apples with pears or add nuts like pecans to create a personalized twist that matches your taste preferences and keeps the recipe exciting.
  • Involves simple mixing and measuring steps that kids can help with, making it an excellent bonding activity that transforms baking into a fun family experience.
  • Baked instead of deep-fried, offering a lighter alternative to traditional fritters while still delivering delicious, golden-brown goodness that satisfies sweet cravings.

Baked Apple Fritter Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour, Whole Wheat Flour: These flours provide the base structure and texture for the fritters.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the batter.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the fritters rise and become light and fluffy.
Spices:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice: These warm spices create a cozy, aromatic flavor profile for the fritters.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the fritters.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Milk: Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Egg: Acts as a binding agent and adds richness to the batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings a subtle, sweet flavor to the fritters.
Butter and Fruit:
  • Cold Butter: Creates a flaky texture and adds richness to the fritters.
  • Apples: Provide natural sweetness and a tender, juicy element to the baked treat.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Confectioner's Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract: These ingredients combine to create a smooth, sweet glaze that coats the fritters.

Baking Baked Apple Fritters

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 400F (204C).

Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat for easy cleanup and non-stick magic.

Step 2: Create Dry Ingredient Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Whole wheat flour
  • Brown sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Allspice
  • Salt

Whisk everything together thoroughly.

Add cold butter pieces and work them into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

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

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.

Stir gently until just combined.

Fold in chopped apples, ensuring even distribution.

Step 4: Shape Fritter Portions

Use a 1/4 cup measure or heaping tablespoon to drop batter onto the prepared baking sheet.

Space fritters apart to allow room for expansion.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven.

Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until bottoms turn golden and centers feel set.

For smaller fritters, start checking around 8 minutes.

Step 6: Create Glorious Glaze

Whisk together:
  • Confectioner's sugar
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Brush a thin layer of glaze over the baked fritters.

Switch oven to broil setting.

Step 7: Broil and Glaze

Place fritters under the broiler for 2-4 minutes.

Watch carefully as the tops turn golden and glaze bubbles.

Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack.

Step 8: Final Glazing and Cooling

Brush fritters with remaining glaze while still warm.

Let the glaze set for a few minutes.

Serve immediately and enjoy with a hot beverage.

Apple Fritter Tips

  • Mix wet and dry ingredients minimally to keep fritters light and tender, stopping as soon as ingredients combine.
  • Use cold butter and cut it into flour mixture to create flaky, moist fritters with delicate crumb structure.
  • Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and balanced sweetness in the recipe.
  • Brush glaze while fritters are warm to help it absorb and create a glossy, even coating that sets perfectly.
  • Use consistent measuring tools like a 1/4 cup or tablespoon to ensure uniform baking and attractive presentation.

Store & Reheat Apple Fritters

  • Store cooled fritters in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, preventing them from becoming soggy.
  • Wrap individual fritters in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring they're completely cool before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
  • Warm refrigerated fritters for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add additional 5-second intervals if needed, avoiding overheating which can make them tough.
  • Preheat oven to 350F, place fritters on a baking sheet, and warm for 5-7 minutes. Refresh the glaze by brushing a light layer before serving to restore their original moisture and shine.

Serve with Baked Apple Fritters

  • Pair with Creamy Vanilla Latte: Complement the warm, spiced apple fritters with a smooth, velvety vanilla latte that echoes the dessert's sweet and comforting notes.
  • Serve with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Top the fritters with a dollop of freshly whipped cream infused with a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the warm, autumnal flavors.
  • Match with Caramel Chai Tea: Brew a rich, spicy chai tea with a drizzle of caramel syrup to create a harmonious pairing that highlights the fritters' apple and spice profile.
  • Accompany with Bourbon Vanilla Sauce: Drizzle a luxurious bourbon vanilla sauce over the fritters for an elegant, adult twist that adds depth and sophistication to the dessert.

Baked Apple Fritter Options

  • Gluten-Free Fritter Delight: Swap wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious apple flavor and tender texture.
  • Vegan Apple Fritter Option: Replace egg with flax egg, use plant-based milk, and substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine to create a completely dairy-free and egg-free treat.
  • Low-Sugar Apple Fritter Hack: Reduce brown sugar and use monk fruit sweetener or stevia, select tart apples like Granny Smith to balance sweetness while keeping the recipe diabetes-friendly.
  • Keto-Friendly Fritter Alternative: Use almond flour, replace sugar with erythritol, incorporate cream cheese into batter, and choose low-carb apples like raspberries for a modified ketogenic version.

FAQs

  • Are these baked apple fritters healthier than traditional fried fritters?

Yes, these fritters are baked instead of deep-fried, which significantly reduces the amount of oil and calories. By using an oven, you get a lighter, less greasy version that’s still deliciously crispy and flavorful.

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

Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully. Each apple type will bring a slightly different texture and sweetness to your fritters. Choose apples that are firm and good for baking to ensure the best results.

  • Is it necessary to use both all-purpose and whole wheat flour?

While you can use just all-purpose flour, the combination of flours adds depth of flavor and a slightly more complex texture. The whole wheat flour introduces a nutty undertone and provides additional nutrients to the fritters.

  • How do I know if I'm mixing the batter correctly?

Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing can make the fritters tough and dense. The batter should look slightly lumpy, which is perfectly normal and will result in a tender, light fritter.

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Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe


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4.6 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Homemade Baked Apple Fritters offer a delightful twist on classic fried pastries, bringing golden warmth and sweet comfort to your breakfast or dessert table. Crisp edges, tender apple chunks, and a light cinnamon glaze make these fritters irresistible for weekend indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) white whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chopped apple
  • 6 tablespoons (90 g) butter, cold and cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120 g) confectioner’s sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to 400F (204C), positioning a rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt using a whisk. Incorporate cold butter pieces into the dry mixture, working until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring minimally to prevent toughening. Carefully fold in chopped apples, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
  4. Using a 1/4 cup measure or heaping tablespoon, drop batter portions onto the prepared baking sheet. Space fritters apart to allow proper expansion during baking.
  5. Bake for 11-13 minutes at 400F. Fritters are done when bottoms turn golden and centers feel set. For smaller fritters, begin checking around 8 minutes to avoid over-browning. Transfer to a wire rack and switch oven to broil.
  6. Whisk confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until glossy. Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter. Place under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching carefully until tops bubble and turn golden.
  7. Remove from broiler and apply a second coat of glaze while fritters are still warm. This helps create a smooth, even coating.
  8. Allow glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. These fritters are most delectable when enjoyed fresh, paired with a warm beverage.

Notes

  • Choose room-temperature apples for better mixing and more consistent flavor distribution throughout the batter.
  • Swap wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version of these fritters.
  • Cut apples into uniform small pieces to ensure even baking and prevent soggy spots in the fritters.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 205
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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