Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, spiced aroma of apple fritters baking in the oven. This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is a healthier take on the classic fried treat. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert. With a crispy outside, a soft, fluffy inside, and a delightful glaze, these baked apple fritters will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, they’re easy to make and require only a handful of simple ingredients. Let’s dive in!
What Are Baked Apple Fritters?
Baked apple fritters are a lighter, oven-baked version of the traditional fried apple fritters. They are made with a spiced dough mixed with chopped apples, then baked to golden perfection. Unlike fried fritters, these baked ones have a slightly cakier texture but still offer a satisfying crunch, thanks to a quick broil at the end of baking. The best part? You get all the delicious flavors without the extra oil!
Ingredients Breakdown
To make these Baked Apple Fritters, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- All-purpose flour and white whole wheat flour: A combination of these flours adds a subtle nuttiness while keeping the fritters light and fluffy.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of molasses.
- Baking powder: Ensures the fritters are light and rise well.
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice): The warm spices enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- Milk, egg, and vanilla extract: Provide moisture and bind the ingredients together.
- Chopped apples: The star ingredient! They add a fresh, juicy bite to every fritter.
- Confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze: The glaze adds a sweet finish and a bit of shine to the fritters.
Substitutions and Variations for the Recipe
- Flour: You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these fritters gluten-free.
- Sugar: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or granulated sugar.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist.
- Apples: Use any variety of apples you like – Granny Smith for a tart flavor, or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough for Fritters
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat. This will prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. This combination forms the base of your fritter dough.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures a tender, flaky texture.
Adding the Apples: Best Practices
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters light and airy.
- Fold in the Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.
Baking vs. Broiling: Achieving the Perfect Texture
- Shape the Fritters: Drop the dough by 1/4 cupfuls onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each fritter as they will spread slightly during baking.
- Bake the Fritters: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and the centers are set.
- Broil for Crispiness: Remove the fritters from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Turn the oven to the broil setting. Prepare the glaze while the oven heats up for broiling.

Glaze Perfection
Making the Glaze: Tips for the Right Consistency
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
- Apply the First Glaze Layer: Brush a thin layer of glaze over the tops of the fritters. Broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Final Glaze Layer: Remove the fritters from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze while still warm. Allow the glaze to harden slightly before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: This can make the fritters dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix until just combined.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even cooking and the correct texture.
- Broiling for Too Long: Broiling adds crispiness, but keep an eye on the fritters to avoid burning the glaze.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve Warm: Baked apple fritters taste best when served warm. They are perfect for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
- Garnish Creatively: Dust with a little extra powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a delightful presentation.
- Pair with Drinks: Serve with hot tea, coffee, or apple cider for a complete experience.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store Leftovers and Keep Them Fresh
- Store in an Airtight Container: Place leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating Tips for Crispy Fritters
- To Reheat: Warm the fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain their crispiness.
FAQs
- Can I Make Apple Fritters Gluten-Free? Yes! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
- Can These Fritters Be Made Ahead of Time? Absolutely! Prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version without sacrificing flavor or texture. Easy to make, delightfully spiced, and perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
If you loved this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one.
Print
Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Delicious baked apple fritters with a sweet glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Easy and healthier than fried!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour and white whole wheat flour: A combination of these flours adds a subtle nuttiness while keeping the fritters light and fluffy.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of molasses.
- Baking powder: Ensures the fritters are light and rise well.
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice): The warm spices enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- Milk, egg, and vanilla extract: Provide moisture and bind the ingredients together.
- Chopped apples: The star ingredient! They add a fresh, juicy bite to every fritter.
- Confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze: The glaze adds a sweet finish and a bit of shine to the fritters.
Substitutions and Variations for the Recipe
- Flour: You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these fritters gluten-free.
- Sugar: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or granulated sugar.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist.
- Apples: Use any variety of apples you like – Granny Smith for a tart flavor, or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
Instructions
Preparing the Dough for Fritters
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat. This will prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. This combination forms the base of your fritter dough.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures a tender, flaky texture.
Adding the Apples: Best Practices
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters light and airy.
- Fold in the Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.
Baking vs. Broiling: Achieving the Perfect Texture
- Shape the Fritters: Drop the dough by 1/4 cupfuls onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each fritter as they will spread slightly during baking.
- Bake the Fritters: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and the centers are set.
- Broil for Crispiness: Remove the fritters from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Turn the oven to the broil setting. Prepare the glaze while the oven heats up for broiling.
Notes
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve Warm: Baked apple fritters taste best when served warm. They are perfect for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
- Garnish Creatively: Dust with a little extra powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a delightful presentation.
- Pair with Drinks: Serve with hot tea, coffee, or apple cider for a complete experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert