Skip the fryer and enjoy these soft, cinnamon-spiced Baked Apple Fritters—packed with tender apples and topped with a sweet glaze. They taste just like the classic fried version but are easier to make and a little lighter! Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Baked, Not Fried – All the flavor without the mess of deep-frying.
✅ Loaded with Apples – Juicy chunks in every bite.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✅ Perfect for Fall (or Any Season!) – Warm spices make these irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups finely diced apples (about 2 medium apples, peeled if preferred)
For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended!):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or apple cider
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For Topping (Optional):
- Cinnamon sugar (mix 2 tbsp sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined (don’t overmix—a few lumps are okay).
- Fold in diced apples.
Step 3: Bake the Fritters
- Drop batter by heaping tablespoons onto the baking sheet (about 12 fritters).
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and springy to the touch.
Step 4: Glaze & Serve
- While fritters cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk/cider, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze over warm fritters.
- For extra sweetness, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Tips for the Best Apple Fritters
🔹 Apple Choices: Use Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp/Fuji for sweetness.
🔹 Don’t Overmix – A thick, slightly lumpy batter keeps fritters tender.
🔹 Make Them Mini: Use a teaspoon for bite-sized fritters (great for kids!).
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Pair with coffee or hot cider for a cozy breakfast.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Apple Fritters are a fuss-free way to enjoy a classic treat—soft, spiced, and full of apple goodness. No frying needed!
Dig in and enjoy! 🍏🍂