Baked Apple Fritters (Quick & Easy)

Introduction

These baked apple fritters capture all the cozy flavors of the classic fried version but with a lighter, oven-baked twist. Juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a soft, tender dough come together to create a delightful treat that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon coffee break!

Ingredients & Quantities

For the Fritters

1 cup all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
⅓ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp melted butter
1½ cups diced apples (peeled or unpeeled — Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work great)

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:

flour
baking powder
cinnamon
nutmeg
salt
sugar

3. Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk:

egg
milk
vanilla
melted butter

Pour wet mixture into dry

and gently mix until combined (do not overmix).

4. Add Apples

Fold in the diced apples — the batter will be thick and chunky.

5. Form the Fritters

Drop spoonfuls of the batter (about ¼ cup each) onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

6. Bake

Bake 10–14 minutes, or until golden and set.

7. Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Drizzle over warm fritters or dip the tops for a thicker coating.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Apple fritters come from the tradition of European fried pastries, especially popular in American bakeries. This baked version keeps the nostalgic flavor but offers a modern, easy, and lighter approach — perfect for home cooks looking to simplify the process.

Description

Soft, warm, and bursting with fresh apple chunks, these fritters have a golden exterior and a tender interior. The glaze adds a sweet, glossy finish that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-spice aroma.

Optional Additions

Add raisins or chopped walnuts.
Use brown sugar instead of white for richer flavor.
Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
Brush with melted butter before glazing for bakery-style shine.

Tips for Success

Dice apples small so they bake evenly.
Let the fritters cool 5 minutes before glazing to avoid thinning the glaze.
For extra crisp edges, bake an additional 2–3 minutes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and warm 10 seconds in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per fritter)

Calories: 170–210
Carbs: 30–34 g
Fat: 4–6 g
Protein: 2–3 g

Conclusion

These baked apple fritters give you all the comforting flavors you love — without the hassle of frying. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for cozy mornings or sweet snacking moments.

Recommendation

Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re also perfect for meal prep and stay delicious for days.