Introduction
Warm baked apple fritters are a cozy, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the smell of cinnamon and sweet apples. Unlike traditional deep-fried fritters, these are baked in the oven, making them lighter but still soft on the inside with golden edges. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a warm dessert with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
For the fritters
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
2 large eggs
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Add the diced apples to the dry ingredients and toss to coat them well. This helps keep the apples evenly distributed in the batter.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
Scoop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter. Shape them lightly if needed, but keep a rustic look.
Bake for 14–18 minutes, or until the fritters are puffed, lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the fritters bake, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth and pourable.
Remove the fritters from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. While still warm, drizzle or brush the glaze generously over the top.
Return the glazed fritters to the oven for 2–3 minutes to set the glaze slightly, then remove and let cool just enough to handle.
Methods and Tips
Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture.
For extra flavor, sauté the diced apples in a little butter and cinnamon for 2–3 minutes before adding them to the batter.
If you like crispier edges, bake the fritters on the top rack for the last few minutes.
History
Apple fritters have long been a favorite in European and American kitchens, traditionally made by frying apple-studded batter in hot oil. Baked versions became popular as home cooks looked for lighter, oven-friendly alternatives without losing the comforting flavor of the classic treat.
Benefits
Baking instead of frying reduces oil and heaviness.
Apples provide natural sweetness, fiber, and moisture.
Perfect for making ahead and reheating gently in the oven.
Nutrition (approximate per fritter)
Calories 170–190
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 4 g
Fat 6 g
Fiber 2 g
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with coffee or tea.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter finish.
Pair with vanilla yogurt or a small scoop of ice cream for dessert.
Conclusion
Warm baked apple fritters are an easy, comforting recipe that delivers all the cozy flavors of apples and spices without deep frying. Soft, lightly sweet, and finished with a warm glaze, they are sure to become a favorite for family breakfasts and relaxed evenings at home.