Baked Apple Fritters

These warm, tender Baked Apple Fritters are packed with cozy fall spices, fresh apples, and finished with a glossy vanilla glaze. Unlike traditional fried fritters, these are baked to golden perfection, giving you all the texture and flavor without the extra oil. With a caramelized, lightly crisp exterior and a soft, moist center, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Frying Required: Baked, not fried—less mess, less oil, same great flavor!
• Quick & Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes with pantry staples.
• Crispy Yet Fluffy: Caramelized on the outside and soft inside thanks to a quick broil after baking.
• Perfect Fall Treat: Apples + cinnamon + vanilla glaze = comfort in every bite.
• Customizable: Try maple glaze or different apple varieties for flavor twists.

Baked Apple Fritters Ingredients

For the Fritters

• 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
• 6 Tablespoons butter, cold and cut into pieces
• 1/2 Cup milk (the higher the fat content, the richer the flavor)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Cup chopped apple***

For the Glaze

• 1 Cup confectioner’s sugar
• 2 Tablespoons milk (a higher percentage of fat works the best)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat (ensure it’s broiler-safe). If not using a mat, lightly grease the baking sheet instead.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• All-purpose flour
• White whole wheat flour
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Allspice
• Salt

Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour into the flour mixture and stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.

Add the Apples

Fold in the chopped apples gently until evenly distributed. If the batter seems too thin (due to juicy apples), add 2–4 tablespoons of extra flour. The batter should hold its shape when scooped.

Scoop and Bake

Drop batter onto prepared baking sheet using a 1/4 cup measuring cup for larger fritters or a heaping tablespoon for smaller ones.
Do not flatten—the batter will spread slightly on its own.
Bake for 11–13 minutes or until the bottoms are golden and centers are set.
(Smaller fritters may need only 8–10 minutes.)

Prepare Glaze

While fritters bake, mix glaze ingredients in a small bowl:

• Whisk confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

First Glaze + Broil

Once baked, remove fritters from oven and switch oven to broil.
Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter.
Place back under the broiler for 2–4 minutes, just until the glaze bubbles and the tops begin to caramelize slightly.

Final Glaze

Carefully remove fritters from the oven. While still warm, brush remaining glaze over each fritter.
Allow glaze to harden slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or cooled!

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use firm, tart apples for best texture and flavor—like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the fritters tender.
• Maple Variation: Swap vanilla extract in the glaze for maple extract.
• If your apples are extra juicy, adjust with extra flour for thicker batter.
• For smaller fritters, use a tablespoon-sized scoop and check for doneness early.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coffee or spiced chai for a cozy treat.
• Add a dusting of cinnamon-sugar for extra flavor.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a dessert!

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Fridge: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to revive crispness.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to the glaze, but you can freeze unglazed fritters and add glaze after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use only all-purpose flour?
A: Yes! You can substitute white whole wheat flour with equal parts all-purpose flour.

Can I use dairy-free milk?
A: Yes, though the texture may vary slightly.

Why broil the fritters?
A: Broiling caramelizes the glaze for a slightly crisp, golden finish on top.

Can I skip the glaze?
A: You can, but the glaze adds flavor and helps create the signature glossy look.

Conclusion

These Baked Apple Fritters are the ultimate fall comfort bake—easy, cozy, and full of warm spice and fresh apple flavor. With a crisp-glazed top and fluffy interior, they’re everything you love about a fritter without the frying fuss. Make a batch for breakfast, dessert, or a weekend baking project—you won’t regret it!

Print