Easy Baked Apple Fritters: A Healthier Take on a Classic Treat

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There’s something magical about the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg filling your kitchen. Easy Baked Apple Fritters give you all the warm, cozy flavors of the classic fried version—without the excess oil. If you love bakery-style apple fritters but want a healthier, easier way to enjoy them, this recipe is for you!

Baking these fritters instead of frying them makes them lighter while still keeping them soft, fluffy, and packed with juicy apple goodness. Plus, the simple vanilla glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Ready to make your kitchen smell like a bakery? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier than traditional fried fritters – Baking cuts down on oil and extra calories.
  • Quick and easy – No deep frying, just mix, scoop, and bake.
  • Perfect for fall and holiday mornings – The warm spices and apples make these ideal for cozy days.
  • Kid-friendly – A delicious treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
  • No yeast required – This quick batter comes together in minutes.

Ingredients for Easy Baked Apple Fritters

Here’s everything you need to make these delicious apple fritters.

For the Fritters

IngredientQuantityPurpose
All-purpose flour2 cupsProvides structure
Granulated sugar1/3 cupAdds sweetness
Baking powder2 teaspoonsCreates a light, fluffy texture
Salt1/2 teaspoonEnhances flavor
Ground cinnamon1 teaspoonWarm, cozy spice
Ground nutmeg1/4 teaspoonAdds depth of flavor
Eggs2 largeBinds the batter together
Whole milk1/2 cupAdds moisture
Vanilla extract2 teaspoonsAdds a fragrant aroma
Unsalted butter (melted)2 tablespoonsProvides richness
Diced apples1 1/2 cupsUse Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for tart-sweet bites

For the Glaze

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Powdered sugar1 cupThe base of the glaze
Milk2–3 tablespoonsAdjusts the consistency
Vanilla extract1/2 teaspoonAdds extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Baked Apple Fritters

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

  • In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.

4. Make the Batter

  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
  • Gently fold in the diced apples to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

5. Shape and Bake the Fritters

  • Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for even baking.
  • Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Make the Glaze

  • While the fritters are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
  • Adjust the milk amount to get your desired glaze consistency.

7. Glaze and Serve

  • Drizzle or brush the glaze over the warm fritters.
  • Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked apple fritters warm with a cup of coffee or tea!

Tips for the Best Baked Apple Fritters

  • Use tart apples – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples balance the sweetness of the fritters.
  • Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
  • Make them extra crispy – Brush the tops with a little melted butter before baking.
  • Add nuts for crunch – Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition.
  • Enhance the glaze – Add a pinch of cinnamon or maple syrup for extra depth of flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your fritters? Try these variations:

  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
  • Caramel Drizzle: Instead of glaze, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the fritters.
  • Chocolate Chip Apple Fritters: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter.

What to Serve with Baked Apple Fritters

These fritters pair perfectly with:

  • Hot coffee or tea – A warm drink enhances the cozy flavors.
  • Whipped cream – A dollop on top makes them extra special.
  • Vanilla ice cream – Turn them into a dessert by serving them with a scoop of ice cream.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

  • Place fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
  • Transfer to a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

  • Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
  • Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories~180
Protein3g
Carbohydrates30g
Fat5g
Fiber1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are best, but Fuji or Gala apples also work well.

2. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store them at room temperature and glaze them just before serving.

3. How do I make them extra crispy?

For a crispier exterior, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.

4. Can I freeze these fritters?

Yes! Freeze them in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months, then reheat in the oven.

5. What can I use instead of powdered sugar for the glaze?

Try a honey glaze or a maple syrup drizzle as a natural alternative.

6. Can I add other fruits to this recipe?

Yes! Try adding chopped pears or raisins for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Apple Treat!

Easy Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect balance of light, fluffy, and flavorful. Whether you’re making them for a fall breakfast, a holiday gathering, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite!

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Easy Baked Apple Fritters: A Healthier Take on a Classic Treat


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 fritters

Description

Warm, cozy, and filled with the delightful flavors of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these baked apple fritters are the perfect way to enjoy the classic treat without the deep-frying. The fluffy texture and simple vanilla glaze make these a healthier, easy-to-make version of a beloved dessert.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
  • Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
  • Shape and Bake the Fritters: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 14-16 minutes, until golden brown.
  • Make the Glaze: While the fritters are cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust milk to reach your desired glaze consistency.
  • Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and allow it to set before serving. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!

Notes

  • Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp give the fritters a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined for light, fluffy fritters.
  • For an extra crispy texture, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.
  • Add chopped nuts for a crunchy texture or try adding a bit of cinnamon or maple syrup to the glaze for added flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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