Baked Apple Fritters

Introduction

If you’ve ever craved the comforting taste of apple fritters but wished for a lighter version, baked apple fritters are here to save the day. Traditionally deep-fried, these fritters are instead baked to perfection, creating a treat that’s crisp on the outside, soft inside, and bursting with juicy apple flavor. Perfect for autumn gatherings, cozy family desserts, or even a sweet breakfast, this recipe brings together all the nostalgic flavors of fall without the extra oil. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and deliciously satisfying.

My recipe story

I first discovered apple fritters at a small-town bakery that was famous for its sugary, deep-fried treats. While I adored the taste, I often found them too heavy to enjoy regularly. That’s when I decided to experiment at home, aiming to capture all the warm, spiced apple goodness in a baked version. After a few trials, I landed on this recipe: light, flavorful, and full of that comforting fritter charm. It’s now become a family favorite, especially during apple season, when orchards are overflowing with fresh fruit. The best part? I don’t feel guilty about going back for seconds—or thirds!

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of baked apple fritters lies in their simplicity. The main ingredient, of course, is fresh apples. Choose a firm, slightly tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—they hold up well during baking and provide a balance of sweetness and acidity that prevents the fritters from being overly sugary.

Flour forms the base of the batter, giving the fritters their structure. A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar ensures balanced sweetness, with the brown sugar lending a slight caramel-like depth. Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, elevating the apples’ natural flavor. Baking powder provides the lift needed for a fluffy texture, while a touch of salt balances everything out. Finally, milk and eggs bind the batter together, while a bit of butter or oil enriches the texture for a moist and tender bite.

Together, these simple ingredients transform into a warm, comforting fritter that tastes like autumn in every bite. And because they’re baked, the flavors shine through without being overshadowed by excess oil.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Sharp knife for dicing apples
• Cooling rack

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and dice two fresh apples into small, even pieces. This ensures they bake evenly and distribute nicely throughout the batter. Place the diced apples in a bowl, toss with a little lemon juice to prevent browning, and set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these thoroughly ensures the leavening and spices are evenly distributed.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk 1 large egg, ½ cup milk, and 2 tablespoons melted butter until smooth. The milk provides moisture, while the egg binds the mixture, and the butter adds richness.
4. Make the batter: Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the fritters dense. Once incorporated, fold in the diced apples evenly.
5. Shape the fritters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Scoop spoonfuls of batter onto the sheet, leaving space between each fritter since they will expand slightly while baking. Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten them.
6. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the fritters for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The apples will become tender and fragrant as they bake.
7. Cool and finish: Transfer fritters to a cooling rack for a few minutes before serving. For extra indulgence, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk, or dust lightly with powdered sugar.

Variations & substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste. Swap apples with pears for a softer, sweeter flavor. For added crunch, mix in chopped pecans or walnuts with the batter. If you prefer a dairy-free version, replace milk with almond or oat milk and butter with coconut oil. A pinch of cardamom or ginger can also bring a new layer of warmth and spice. For a festive twist, fold in dried cranberries or raisins for bursts of tangy sweetness.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Baked apple fritters taste best fresh, but they can be stored for later. Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap fritters individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through for the best texture. You can also make the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight, then bake fresh fritters the next morning.

Serving ideas & pairings

These fritters are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a cozy breakfast, pair them with hot coffee or spiced chai tea. As a dessert, top them with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce for an indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with savory dishes—serve alongside roasted pork or chicken for a sweet-and-savory combination. For a brunch spread, arrange them with other baked goods like muffins and scones, letting guests enjoy a variety of flavors.

FAQ

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best because they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional, but it creates a smoother texture. If you prefer more rustic fritters, you can leave the skins on.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for best results.

How do I make a glaze for the fritters?
Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled fritters for a sweet finish.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Just use two baking sheets or bake in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Final thoughts

Baked apple fritters are proof that comfort food can be both indulgent and wholesome. With tender apples, warm spices, and a light golden crust, they deliver all the nostalgic flavors of traditional fritters without the heaviness of frying. Whether you’re baking for a family breakfast, a fall gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is a winner every time. Give them a try, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again throughout apple season and beyond.

Baked Apple Fritters

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 fritters 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A  lighter twist on the classic fritter, these baked apple fritters are golden, tender, and packed with warm cinnamon-spiced apples. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
  
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  
• ¼ cup brown sugar
  
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Dice apples and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning, then set aside.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. In another bowl, whisk egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.

5. Gently fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined, then stir in apples.

6. Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

8. Cool slightly on a wire rack and finish with a glaze or dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Best served warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American