Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
If you love the idea of filling your kitchen with the warm aroma of spiced apples and buttery pastry, these Baked Apple Fritters will absolutely win your heart. Imagine tender, cinnamon-laced apples hugged by a golden, slightly crisp dough and finished with a shimmering vanilla glaze — all made effortlessly in your oven rather than the fryer. This recipe strikes that nostalgic balance between homey comfort and bakery-style indulgence, and because they’re baked, you can feel just a little bit better about reaching for that second fritter!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for these Baked Apple Fritters keeps things blissfully simple but each element is chosen with care. The spices create an irresistible warmth, while fresh apple and creamy glaze elevate the flavor and texture to something unforgettable.
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour: The base for structure and tenderness in every fritter bite.
- 3/4 Cup white whole wheat flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness and wholesome texture; you can use all-purpose if you don’t have this on hand.
- 1/2 Cup brown sugar: Brings a deep caramel note that pairs beautifully with apples and spice.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the fritters puff up and stay light.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds classic warmth and fragrance—don’t skimp!
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Gives an aromatic, almost sweet spiciness that rounds out the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice: For a gentle kick that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 6 Tablespoons butter, cold and cut into pieces: Cold butter means flakier fritters; think scone or biscuit texture.
- 1/2 Cup milk (the higher the fat, the richer the fritter): Adds moisture and tenderness; whole milk gives best results.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together and helps the fritters puff in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with wonderful warmth and aroma.
- 1 Cup chopped apple: Use any crisp, sweet-tart variety; dice small so they soften perfectly as they bake.
- 1 Cup confectioner’s sugar: For a glossy, sweet vanilla glaze that’s essential for that signature finish.
- 2 Tablespoons milk (for glaze): Thins the glaze to just the right consistency for brushing and drizzling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a lovely floral note to the glaze.
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Before anything else, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a silicone baking mat that’s safe for broiling, now’s the time to line your baking sheet; this will make clean-up so much easier. No mat? Not to worry — the fritters will still turn out beautifully, you’ll just need a touch more elbow grease on the pan later.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter
In a large mixing bowl, add both flours, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Whisk these together until well combined—a little whisking is the secret to evenly distributing those spices. Next, toss in the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter in until your mixture looks like coarse, buttery crumbs. The cold bits of butter are what give Baked Apple Fritters their delightful texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is moistened. Be gentle—overmixing is the enemy of tender fritters. Finally, fold in the chopped apple, making sure those juicy apple pieces are scattered throughout the dough. They’ll soften perfectly as the fritters bake.
Step 4: Shape and Portion the Fritters
Drop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet using a 1/4 cup measure for generous bakery-style fritters, or keep things mini with heaping tablespoons. Leave a little space between each one, as they’ll puff up slightly in the oven. If you like a rustic look, just let the dough fall as it may — the craggy bits are where the glaze collects later!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place your tray in the oven and bake for 11 to 13 minutes, until the bottoms are a deep golden brown and the centers are set. If you’ve chosen to go smaller, start checking around the 8-minute mark to ensure they don’t overbake. Once done, transfer your golden fritters to a wire rack and turn your oven to broil.
Step 6: Glaze and Broil for a Perfect Finish
While the oven heats up for broiling, whisk together confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Brush a thin layer of this sweet glaze over each fritter, then slide the baking sheet under the broiler for just 2 to 4 minutes, or until the glaze starts to bubble and the tops take on a golden hue. Keep a close eye so they don’t over-brown.
Step 7: Glaze Again & Cool
Carefully remove the tray from the oven and return the fritters to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, brush on the remaining glaze so it sinks into all the nooks and crannies. Let them sit until the glaze hardens and creates that iconic shiny, crackled finish. Now the hardest part: waiting just a moment before you dive in!
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Garnishes
Dress up your Baked Apple Fritters with a final dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon if you’re feeling bold. For a fancy brunch feel, add a few curls of lemon zest—it plays beautifully with the spiced apple flavors.
Side Dishes
These fritters are irresistible alongside a steaming mug of coffee or a frothy chai latte. If you’re serving them for breakfast or brunch, pair with tangy Greek yogurt and fresh berries to balance their sweetness, or offer them with a side of crisp bacon for that sweet-salty contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Baked Apple Fritters are naturally gorgeous, but for extra flair, stack them high on a cake stand or nestle a few into a rustic bread basket lined with a linen towel. For dessert, try serving warm fritters à la mode with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and an extra drizzle of warm glaze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have a few fritters left, let them cool completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay tender and flavorful, though the glaze may lose a bit of its initial shine—but the taste is still wonderful!
Freezing
Baked Apple Fritters freeze surprisingly well. Arrange cooled fritters on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid; then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months, and you can refresh them any time you need an impromptu treat.
Reheating
For best results, reheat fritters in a 325-degree oven for 5 to 8 minutes, just until warmed through. This revives the exterior for that just-baked slight crispness. If you’re short on time, a few seconds in the microwave works too—the glaze may soften, but the flavor is still top-notch.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of white whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! If you don’t have white whole wheat, you can use all-purpose flour for the full amount. The fritters will still be light and delicious, though you might miss a bit of the subtle nuttiness the wheat flour adds.
What are the best apples for Baked Apple Fritters?
Any firm, crisp apple works beautifully—think Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for a tart kick. Dicing the apples small ensures they soften just right during baking and don’t leave uneven chunks.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk. The texture and taste will vary slightly, but you’ll still get that irresistible spiced apple goodness.
Do I have to broil the fritters with glaze?
Broiling gives Baked Apple Fritters their signature glossy, slightly crisp topping, but if you don’t have a broiler you can simply double-glaze and let them set. The finish will be softer, but still delicious and pretty.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Definitely! For a fun twist, fold in a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or golden raisins along with the apples. They provide extra texture and flavor, making the fritters even more delightful.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough about how these Baked Apple Fritters transform the simple pleasures of apple, spice, and glaze into something so special. Whether you’re sharing them with friends at brunch or sneaking one for a midnight snack, this recipe is a true keeper. I hope you’ll give these a try and let your home fill with the sweetest aroma of comfort—you deserve it!
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Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These irresistible Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the flavors of sweet apples, warm spices, and a delectable glaze. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these fritters are a must-try for any apple dessert lover.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 Cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 Cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 6 Tablespoons butter, cold and cut into pieces
- 1/2 Cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1 Cup chopped apple
- 1 Cup confectioner’s sugar
- 2 Tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare dry mixture: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Add to flour mixture and stir until just combined. Gently fold in chopped apple.
- Bake: Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the baking sheet and bake for 11-13 minutes until golden brown.
- Broil: Prepare the glaze by whisking together confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Brush over fritters and broil for 2-4 minutes until golden.
- Glaze: Brush remaining glaze over warm fritters and allow to harden before serving.
Notes
- Best served warm for optimal taste.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Baked Apple Fritters, Apple Dessert, Homemade Fritters
