Baked Apple Fritters

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Baked Apple Fritters – Warm, Spiced & Glazed to Perfection

Tender apple fritters baked instead of fried, with cozy spices and a sweet vanilla glaze

Introduction: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Treat

Apple fritters are a beloved bakery favorite—crispy, golden, and packed with cinnamon-spiced apples. But what if you could enjoy all that goodness without the mess of frying? These Baked Apple Fritters are the answer. They’re soft, warm, and full of fall flavor, with a golden exterior and a bubbling vanilla glaze that sets into a sweet shell.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these fritters come together in just 30 minutes and use simple pantry ingredients. They’re ideal for cozy mornings, holiday baking, or anytime you want a comforting treat that’s a little lighter but just as satisfying.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these fritters so irresistible:

For the Fritters:

  • All-purpose flour (¾ cup)
    Provides structure and softness.
  • White whole wheat flour (¾ cup)
    Adds a nutty flavor and wholesome texture.
  • Brown sugar (½ cup)
    Sweetens and adds moisture and depth.
  • Baking powder (2 tsp)
    Helps the fritters rise and stay fluffy.
  • Cinnamon (1 tsp)
    Classic warm spice for apple desserts.
  • Nutmeg (½ tsp)
    Adds earthy warmth.
  • Allspice (¼ tsp)
    Deepens the spice profile.
  • Salt (¼ tsp)
    Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • Butter (6 tbsp, cold and cut into pieces)
    Creates tender, flaky texture when baked.
  • Milk (½ cup)
    Adds moisture and helps bind the dough.
  • Egg (1)
    Adds richness and structure.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds aromatic sweetness.
  • Chopped apple (1 cup)
    Fresh and juicy—use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.

Optional: Add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.

For the Glaze:

  • Confectioner’s sugar (1 cup)
    Smooth and sweet—perfect for glazing.
  • Milk (2 tbsp)
    Thins the glaze to a brushable consistency.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds flavor and aroma.

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or maple extract for a seasonal twist.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Pastry brush
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:

  • Whisk together ¾ cup all-purpose flour, ¾ cup white whole wheat flour, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp allspice, and ¼ tsp salt.

Cut in 6 tbsp cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Tip: Cold butter creates pockets of steam for a tender texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl:

  • Whisk together ½ cup milk, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Add wet mixture to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Gently fold in 1 cup chopped apple.

Tip: Don’t overmix—this keeps the fritters light and tender.

Step 4: Shape & Bake

Drop batter by ¼ cup portions onto the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 11–13 minutes, until:

  • Tops are golden
  • Centers are set

Let cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl:

  • Mix 1 cup confectioner’s sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.

Brush glaze over warm fritters.

Place under the broiler for 2–4 minutes, until glaze bubbles and sets.

Remove and brush with remaining glaze.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Yields:

  • 12 fritters

Presentation Tip: Serve on a rustic platter with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Fall brunches
  • Afternoon tea
  • Holiday breakfast
  • Cozy desserts

Pair with:

  • Hot apple cider
  • Chai latte
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Maple whipped cream

Tip: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Apple-Pear Fritters

Use half chopped apple and half chopped pear.

Coconut Apple Fritters

Add shredded coconut to the batter and glaze.

Chocolate Chip Apple Fritters

Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, milk, and egg substitute.

Mini Muffin Fritters

Scoop into mini muffin tins for bite-sized portions.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare batter up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate.
  • Refrigerate: Store baked fritters in airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven before glazing.

Tip: Glaze just before serving for best texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Fritter, ~1 of 12)

  • Calories: ~180
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~22g
  • Fat: ~8g
  • Sugar: ~12g
  • Sodium: ~150mg
  • Fiber: ~2g

These fritters are:

  • Warm and spiced
  • Soft and tender
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Baked Apple Fritters are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of fall flavors, cozy mornings, and simple pleasures. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and comfort in every bite.

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