Introduction
Baked Apple Fritters are a lighter, quicker twist on the classic fried treat. Soft, fluffy, and filled with warm cinnamon-spiced apples, these fritters deliver all the cozy bakery flavor you love—without deep frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a simple dessert, they come together fast and fill your kitchen with irresistible aroma.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Apple fritters trace their roots to European fritter traditions, especially in England and France, where fruit-based batter desserts were popular for centuries. As apples became widely cultivated in North America, apple fritters evolved into a beloved comfort food. The baked version reflects modern cooking trends—health-conscious, convenient, and family-friendly—while preserving the nostalgic taste of the original.
Ingredients (with Quantities)
For the Fritters
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1½ cups apples, peeled and finely diced (about 2 medium apples)
Optional Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Raisins or dried cranberries
- A pinch of ground ginger
- Caramel drizzle instead of glaze
- Brown sugar in place of white sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. - Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat eggs with milk, vanilla, and melted butter. - Combine & Fold in Apples
Gently combine wet and dry ingredients. Fold in diced apples. - Shape the Fritters
Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the baking sheet, slightly flattening the tops. - Bake
Bake for 14–18 minutes until puffed and lightly golden. - Glaze (Optional)
Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm fritters.
Description
These baked apple fritters are tender inside with lightly crisp edges. Every bite bursts with juicy apple pieces and warm cinnamon flavor, finished with a sweet glaze that melts into the surface for bakery-style goodness.
Tips for Success
- Dice apples small for even baking
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Glaze while fritters are warm for best absorption
- For extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end
Nutritional Information (Approx. per Fritter)
- Calories: 180–210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
(Without glaze; values may vary.)
Conclusion
Baked Apple Fritters offer all the comfort of a classic dessert in a faster, lighter form. They’re easy to make, full of fall-inspired flavor, and perfect for any time of day.
Recommendation
Enjoy these fritters with a cup of coffee or tea, a scoop of vanilla yogurt, or as part of a brunch spread. They also make a great make-ahead snack.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
By baking instead of frying and using real fruit, these fritters strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment—proof that simple ingredients can create wholesome, feel-good treats 🍏🌿