Easy Baked Apple Fritters Recipe -

Warm up your morning with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced treat that\’s as comforting as a hug.

Apple fritters are the perfect fall-inspired treat, but they don’t have to be deep-fried to be delicious! This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe gives you the same indulgent, warm flavors you love without the guilt of frying. These soft, fluffy fritters are made with fresh apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a sweet glaze that will make your kitchen smell like autumn.

Whether you\’re looking for a comforting breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, these baked apple fritters are the answer. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, perfect for those cozy mornings when you want something delicious but don\’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces (I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1/3 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp lemon juice (optional, helps balance the sweetness)

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 ½ tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based)
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Set them aside. If you like, you can toss the chopped apples in a tiny bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, applesauce, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

6. Add the Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples. You want to make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Spoon the Batter onto the Baking Sheet

Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small mounds. Space them about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.

8. Bake

Bake the fritters for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Prepare the Glaze

While the fritters are baking, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.

10. Glaze the Fritters

Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over them, allowing it to set for a few minutes before serving.

11. Serve & Enjoy!

Serve the fritters warm, with a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy the comforting taste of autumn in every bite.

Serving & Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

These baked apple fritters are perfect for breakfast or brunch, but they also make a wonderful snack with a warm cup of tea. For an extra treat, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage:

If you have leftovers (although that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

Freezing:

These fritters freeze beautifully! Once cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap or foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave or oven.

Helpful Notes

Apple Variety: While Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness to balance the sweetness of the glaze, feel free to use your favorite variety, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious. Just make sure the apples are firm enough to hold up during baking.
Sugar Alternatives: If you\’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can replace the brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup (reduce the amount of liquid accordingly).
Gluten-Free Version: You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the other ingredients for hidden gluten if you\’re sensitive.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Ina Garten suggests adding a teaspoon of nutmeg to the batter for a spicier, more aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with apples.
Rachael Ray recommends a dash of apple cider vinegar in the glaze to add a little tang that complements the sweetness of the apple fritters.
Martha Stewart advises drizzling the glaze while the fritters are still slightly warm so it absorbs a little into the fritters, making each bite even more flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other fruits such as pears, cherries, or diced peaches. Just make sure the fruit is firm enough to hold its shape while baking.

2. Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples ensures a smoother texture in the fritters. However, if you enjoy the texture of the peel, you can leave it on.

3. Can I make these fritters without the glaze?

Absolutely! The fritters are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness. You can skip it if you prefer a less sweet option.

4. How can I make these fritters more decadent?

For an extra indulgent treat, top the fritters with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream.

5. Can I use store-bought apple sauce instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought unsweetened applesauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure it’s unsweetened to avoid making the fritters too sweet.

6. How can I make the fritters crispier?

To get a crispier exterior, you can lightly brush the fritters with melted butter before baking, or bake them for a few minutes longer until golden and crispy.

7. Can I freeze the fritters?

Yes, these fritters freeze well. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven for best results.

8. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the fritters a day ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven before serving.

9. How do I make the glaze thicker?

If you want a thicker glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

10. Can I make these fritters dairy-free?

Yes, you can use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk to make these fritters dairy-free. You can also substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water for each egg).

These Baked Apple Fritters are a perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall without the mess of frying. Soft, sweet, and just the right amount of spice, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and comfort they bring to your morning — or anytime you need a little pick-me-up!

You can try also our One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Or my friend\’s Alicia recipes here