If you’ve ever craved a sweet treat that’s just as cozy and comforting as it is easy to whip up, these Baked Apple Fritters belong at the top of your must-try list. Each fritter is packed with juicy apple chunks, wrapped in a warmly spiced batter, and finished with a luscious vanilla glaze. What makes Baked Apple Fritters truly special is that you get all the nostalgic flavors and textures of a classic fairground favorite—without the deep frying! Whether you’re looking for a simple weekend baking project or a way to impress at brunch, this recipe delivers an irresistibly soft, golden fritter every time.

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an irreplaceable role—some add structure and lift, while others build the fritter’s beloved flavor or bring the apples’ fresh sweetness to center stage. Trust me, a good apple fritter is all about balance, and these simple ingredients work together in perfect harmony.

All-purpose flour: Creates the structure for tender, fluffy fritters that hold their shape without turning dense.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to highlight the apples.
Baking powder: Gives the fritters their lovely rise and soft crumb.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for extra lift and gentle browning.
Salt: Enhances flavor and balances out the sweetness.
Cinnamon: Brings classic warmth and spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
Nutmeg: Adds depth and a hint of earthy aroma—just a pinch makes a difference.
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Their tartness and firm texture shine through in every bite.
Eggs: Bind everything together and give the fritters their light, cakey texture.
Milk: Keeps the batter moist and helps dissolve the sugars and spices.
Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and that irresistible buttery flavor you want in every fritter.
Vanilla extract: A little goes a long way, infusing the fritters with a sweet bakery aroma.
Powdered sugar (for the glaze): Gives the glaze its smooth, velvety texture.
Milk (for the glaze): Makes the glaze pourable and helps it set softly on the fritters.
Vanilla extract (for the glaze): Brings everything together with an extra hit of cozy flavor.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Baked Apple Fritters lift off easily and bake evenly—plus, it makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure everything is well combined so each bite is consistently spiced and perfectly leavened.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated. This step guarantees your batter will be silky and lump-free before the apples join the party.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Once just combined, fold in the diced apples. This ensures your Baked Apple Fritters stay tender, with juicy apple surprises in every bite.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Drop heaping spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room between each fritter for spreading. Pop the pan in the oven, and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the fritters are golden brown and fragrant.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the fritters are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable. This simple glaze will create that classic shiny finish and a sweet contrast to the spiced fritters.

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy!

Let the baked apple fritters cool slightly, then drizzle them generously with the glaze. The warmth helps the glaze sink in just a bit for that authentic bakery feel. Enjoy these treats while they’re still a touch warm for the ultimate fall-inspired comfort.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters

Garnishes

The glaze is already a highlight, but you can really take your Baked Apple Fritters to the next level with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a grating of fresh nutmeg. For a showy touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a decadent finish.

Side Dishes

Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect companion for your morning coffee or chai, but they also pair beautifully with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast or brunch spread. If you’re serving them as dessert, they round out a cozy fall meal wonderfully alongside spiced tea or apple cider.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange fritters on a rustic wooden board sprinkled with extra apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a festive brunch centerpiece. To really make them pop, serve each fritter in a decorative cupcake liner, or stack them in a pretty tower and drizzle with extra glaze tableside for a little dramatic flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra Baked Apple Fritters, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Their texture is best on the first day, but they’ll still taste wonderfully moist and flavorful the next morning.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled, unglazed fritters in a single layer on a tray and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Add the glaze after thawing for best results; this way you can enjoy fresh-tasting treats any time cravings strike.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked feel, reheat fritters in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through. If glazed, cover lightly with foil to keep the glaze from melting away. A few seconds in the microwave also works when you need a quick warm-up!

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are favorites for their tartness and texture, feel free to try Fuji, Pink Lady, or even a mix for added flavor complexity in your Baked Apple Fritters.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples gives a softer bite and more uniform texture, but if you love the color and added fiber of the skin, you can leave it on—just make sure to dice them small.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can use a well-greased baking sheet instead. Just give the pan a thorough coating of butter or nonstick spray to keep your Baked Apple Fritters from sticking.

How can I make these fritters dairy-free?

Swap in a dairy-free milk like almond, oat, or soy, and use vegan butter or coconut oil. The recipe stays just as flavorful and delightful!

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! The glaze can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good whisk before drizzling over the warm fritters.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Baked Apple Fritters enough—whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, they’re guaranteed to bring comfort and joy with every bite. Give them a try and see just how easy it is to enjoy this bakery classic right in your own kitchen!