Baked Apple Fritters – The Cozy Treat That Tastes Like a Fall Morning
Apple fritters used to be the kind of thing you grabbed warm from a bakery box — crisp edges, soft middle, and sweet apple bits tucked into every bite. But at home, deep frying can feel like a lot: hot oil, splatter, and that lingering fried smell.
That’s why Baked Apple Fritters are such a keeper. You still get the warm cinnamon-apple flavor, the tender dough, and that classic sweet glaze… just without the fryer. They’re easy, cozy, and taste like something you’d bring to the table on a weekend morning when everyone’s still in pajamas.
Soft, golden, and dripping with glaze — these fritters disappear fast.
Baked Apple Fritters
Ingredients
For the Fritters
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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2¼ tsp baking powder
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½ tsp salt
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2 tsp cinnamon
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¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
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2 large eggs
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¾ cup milk
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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4 tbsp melted butter
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2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples)
For the Glaze
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1½ cups powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp milk (as needed)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
1) Preheat
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2) Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3) Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, and melted butter.
4) Combine + Add Apples
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Pour wet into dry and stir just until combined (don’t overmix).
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Fold in diced apples.
5) Scoop & Bake
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Drop batter onto baking sheet in mounds (about ¼–⅓ cup each).
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden.
6) Broil for Golden Tops (Optional but Great)
Switch oven to broil for 1–2 minutes to brown the tops slightly — watch closely.
7) Glaze
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Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
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Brush or drizzle glaze over warm fritters.
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Let glaze set for 10 minutes.
Why These Fritters Work
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Baking powder gives lift without yeast
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Apples keep them moist and flavorful
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Glaze brings that classic fritter finish
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No frying = less mess and easier cleanup
You get the comfort — without the hassle.
Tips for the Best Baked Apple Fritters
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Use firm apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji)
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Dice apples small so they cook through
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Don’t overmix batter (keeps fritters tender)
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Broil briefly for bakery-style color
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Double-glaze for extra sweetness and shine
Serving Suggestions
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Best served warm
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Pair with coffee or hot cider
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Add chopped nuts for crunch
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Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after glazing
FAQ – Baked Apple Fritters
Do baked fritters taste like fried fritters?
They’re a little lighter and softer than fried, but still give that classic apple-cinnamon flavor with the sweet glaze.
What apples are best?
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, or a mix of both.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, but they’re best fresh. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for 2 days. Glaze may soften over time.
Can I freeze baked apple fritters?
Yes — freeze unglazed fritters up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze after reheating.
