Baked Apple Fritters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• You get all the comforting flavor of apple fritters without standing over hot oil.

• The apples add juicy texture; the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, maybe allspice—create cozy nostalgia.

• The bake‑then‑glaze approach gives a crisp, caramelized top with a tender interior.

• They’re great fresh for breakfast, dessert, or snack and still tasty if slightly reheated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All‑purpose flour

• Brown sugar

• Baking powder

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• Optional allspice (or other warming spice)

• Salt

• Cold butter, cut into small pieces

• Milk (whole milk or whatever richer milk you prefer)

• Egg

• Vanilla extract

• Apple(s), peeled (optional) and finely diced

• Powdered/confectioners’ sugar (for glaze)

• Extra milk (or apple juice) for glaze

Directions

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

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, optional allspice, and salt.

3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apple gently. Try not to overmix.

5. Drop batter by spoonfuls (about ¼‑cup each for larger fritters; smaller if desired) onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

6. Bake for about 10‑13 minutes, until the bottoms are golden and centers are set. If making smaller fritters, check earlier (around 8 mins).

7. Remove from oven, turn oven to broil. While oven broils, whisk together glaze ingredients (powdered sugar + milk/apple juice + vanilla). Brush a thin layer of glaze over fritters.

8. Broil for 2‑4 minutes so the tops caramelize and glaze bubbles. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

9. Once broiled, remove and place fritters on wire rack. Brush with additional glaze while warm. Let glaze set a little, then serve (warm is best).

Servings and timing

• Makes about 10‑12 medium fritters (or more smaller ones) depending on size.

• Prep time: ~15 minutes.

• Baking + broiling time: ~12‑15 minutes.

• Total time: ~30 minutes (including resting a little and glazing).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store fritters in an airtight container. For best texture, keep glaze fresh or store glaze separately. They are best eaten the same day, but will keep 1‑2 days at room temperature; refrigerate if longer.

• Reheating: Warm in a low oven (about 175‑190 °C / 350 °F) just until heated through. You can refresh the glaze afterward or brush on a little extra. Microwaving works but may soften the crisp/edges.

FAQs

What type of apples are best?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp or similar hold up well during baking and add nice contrast to the sweetness.

Can I make them gluten‑free or dairy‑free?

Yes. Use a gluten‑free flour blend in place of regular flour. For dairy‑free, substitute a plant‑based milk and use vegan butter or a mild oil.

Can I prep ahead of time?

You can mix the batter ahead, cover, and refrigerate for a short while. Bake fresh when ready. Glazing fresh makes a big difference, so do that just before serving.

How do I get that caramelized crust without burning?

Use the broiler only at the end, keep fritters close but not too close to the broiler heating element, and watch closely—2‑4 minutes is usually enough.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, you can. The fritters will still be good with just a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar. The glaze adds sweetness and show, but isn’t absolutely necessary.

Is there a way to add extra flavor?

You can add lemon or orange zest, a splash of apple cider, or even small amounts of vanilla or maple extract to enhance flavor. Spices like cardamom or cloves can deepen the profile.

Should I peel the apples?

That’s optional. Peeled apples give a smoother texture; leaving peels adds more texture and color but might make biting through more fibrous depending on the apple variety.

Can I make mini fritters for parties or kids?

Absolutely. Use a tablespoon scoop for smaller ones, reduce baking time slightly and keep an eye as they can brown faster.

How do I prevent the batter from being too wet or spread too much?

Ensure apples are well‑drained/dried. Avoid very juicy types unless you reduce milk slightly. Also, batter should be thick enough to hold shape when scooped.

Can I freeze the fritters?

You can freeze unglazed fritters once cooled. When ready to eat, reheat in oven and glaze fresh after warming.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious, less messy take on the classic treat. They balance soft, spiced apple‑filled centers with a crisp, caramelized top thanks to the glaze and broil finish. Easy enough for a cozy weekend breakfast or simple dessert, yet special enough to delight family and guests. Let me know if you want a variation (vegan, gluten‑free, etc.) and I can share one!

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