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
2 cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2¼ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
2 large eggs
¾ cup milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
4 tbsp melted butter
2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples)
For the Glaze
1½ cups powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk (as needed)
1 tsp vanilla extract
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
Pour wet into dry and stir just until combined (don’t overmix).
Fold in diced apples.
5) Scoop & Bake
Drop batter onto baking sheet in mounds (about ¼–⅓ cup each).
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
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Brush or drizzle glaze over warm fritters.
Let glaze set for 10 minutes.
Why These Fritters Work
Baking powder gives lift without yeast
Apples keep them moist and flavorful
Glaze brings that classic fritter finish
No frying = less mess and easier cleanup
You get the comfort — without the hassle.
Tips for the Best Baked Apple Fritters
Use firm apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji)
Dice apples small so they cook through
Don’t overmix batter (keeps fritters tender)
Broil briefly for bakery-style color
Double-glaze for extra sweetness and shine
Serving Suggestions
Best served warm
Pair with coffee or hot cider
Add chopped nuts for crunch
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.