Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with caramelized apple goodness—these Baked Apple Fritters are a game-changer. Inspired by European pastry traditions and Southern fairground classics, this recipe gives you that deep-fried flavor without the mess.
The secret? A high-heat bake that locks in moisture while creating a golden crust. The result is a light, airy fritter with just the right amount of chew. Whether you’re a weekend baker or a weeknight dessert enthusiast, this one’s for you.
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with caramelized apple goodness—these Baked Apple Fritters are a game-changer. Inspired by European pastry traditions and Southern fairground classics, this recipe gives you that deep-fried flavor without the mess.
Baked Apple Fritters are more than just a sweet treat—they double as a versatile side. Think of it as the ultimate fusion of comfort and convenience, equally suited for breakfast, dessert, or an unexpected savory contrast.
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- Fried Without the Fryer – Get all the crispy, caramelized edges of a classic fritter without the deep-frying mess. No oil splatter, no stress—just golden perfection straight from the oven.
- Apple Pie Meets Donut Hole – Think warm cinnamon, tender apples, and a soft, chewy crumb. It’s like an old-fashioned apple donut meets homemade apple pie—pure fall nostalgia in every bite.
- Unexpectedly Good with Savory Dishes – These fritters aren’t just for dessert! Try them alongside a rich stew or a creamy soup, and you’ll see why they’re a total game-changer.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead Mornings – Bake a batch on Sunday, and enjoy warm, fresh-tasting fritters all week. A quick reheat in the oven brings them right back to life—crisp edges and all.
- Lighter but Just as Indulgent – Less oil, same buttery, spiced, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Who says you can’t have it all?
Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat (broiler-safe)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped apple
- ½ cup milk
- ¾ cup white whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 tbsp butter old and cut into pieces
- ¼ tsp allspice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, ensuring it is broiler-safe.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract, then add this to the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped apple.
- Drop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet in ¼ cup portions or use a heaping tablespoon for smaller fritters.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set; for smaller fritters, check at 8 minutes.
- Remove the fritters to a wire rack and turn the oven to broil.
- While the oven heats, prepare the glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Brush a thin layer of glaze over the fritters, then broil for 2-4 minutes until the tops turn golden and the glaze bubbles.
- Carefully remove the baking sheet, transfer fritters to a wire rack, and brush with the remaining glaze.
- Allow the glaze to harden before serving.
Notes
- Use a sweet-tart apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
- If your broiler runs hot, watch closely to avoid burning the glaze.
- For extra crunch, mix in chopped nuts or raisins with the apples.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 286kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Fibre | 2g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 48g |
Tips To Ease Your Job!
- Chill the Butter – Use cold butter and cut it into small cubes before mixing to achieve a flaky texture.
- Use an Ice Cream Scoop – This makes portioning the batter easier and ensures uniform-sized fritters.
- Prevent Sticky Hands – Lightly grease your hands with oil or butter when shaping the fritters
- Broil with Caution – Keep a close eye on the fritters under the broiler, as they can brown quickly.
- Speed Up the Glaze Hardening – Place the fritters in the fridge for a few minutes after glazing for quicker setting.
