Name: Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1-2 teaspoons water (adjust for consistency)

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If you’re craving a cozy autumn treat that’s bursting with warm, fruity flavors and a touch of sweet indulgence, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into golden, tender fritters studded with juicy apple pieces and kissed by a smooth, tangy glaze that’s simply irresistible. It’s that perfect blend of comfort and freshness you didn’t know you needed, and best of all, it’s baked rather than fried, making it a lighter way to savor a classic favorite any time of year.

Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but impactful ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze. Each component plays a starring role—from the tart apples providing juicy bursts, to the aromatic spices, to the sweet glaze that ties everything together in the most delightful way.

2 medium firm apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for maintaining texture and balanced sweetness.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the fritters their soft, cakey structure.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your fritters rise beautifully and stay light.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes that complement the apples perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle touch that deepens the flavor profile with earthy sweetness.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering the apples.
1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and lifts the fritters.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out the sweetness and adds aromatic depth.
1 cup powdered sugar: The star of the glaze, delivering that irresistible sugary finish.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness to the glaze for balance and zing.
1-2 teaspoons water: Adjusts glaze consistency to a perfect drizzle.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into small, even chunks. Toss these pieces with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a little sugar to infuse them with extra flavor and a bit of natural sweetness. Setting them aside lets the spices mingle with the fruit, making every bite bursting with warmth.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a spacious bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and granulated sugar until fully combined. This step ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving you consistent flavor and fluffy fritters.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. This combination adds moisture and richness, creating a batter that’s velvety and perfect for folding with the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Stir Everything Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the fritters, so fold in the diced apples carefully to keep each bite tender and soft while still bursting with those delightful apple bits.

Step 5: Bake the Fritters

Spoon the batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in small dollops, leaving enough room for them to puff and spread. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. The oven’s gentle heat works its magic, baking them lightly crisp on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the fritters are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and water until smooth. Adjust the water a teaspoon at a time to get a luscious, pourable glaze that will coat your fritters just right without being too runny or too thick.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Once your fritters have cooled just a bit, drizzle the glaze over the top generously. Serve them warm to fully enjoy the contrast between the soft, fragrant fritters and the sweet, tangy glaze that adds an irresistible finishing touch. You’ll want to savor every bite!

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or even a few fresh apple slices gives your fritters a charming appearance and introduces exciting textures. A pinch of ground cinnamon on top can reinforce those cozy spice flavors and make your presentation pop.

Side Dishes

These fritters pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a luscious dessert experience. For a brunch twist, serve alongside crispy bacon or a cup of hot coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and create a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box by stacking your Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze into a pretty tower on a rustic wooden board or serving them in colorful muffin liners for a fun party appetizer. You can also tuck them into a basket lined with a checkered cloth for a charming picnic vibe that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep the fritters soft and moist. This makes for an easy grab-and-go snack or a quick breakfast treat the next day.

Freezing

Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To enjoy these fritters fresh from the oven again, reheat them in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that wonderful texture and keep the glaze from melting into a puddle.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?

While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their firm texture and balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with other firm apples like Fuji or Braeburn. Avoid very soft or overly sweet apples, as they might make the fritters soggy.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples helps create a smoother texture in the fritters and avoids any overly chewy bites from the skins. However, if you prefer a more rustic feel and don’t mind the texture, you can leave the skins on after thoroughly washing the apples.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The fritters might have a slightly different texture, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Why are my fritters dense instead of light?

This usually happens if the batter is overmixed. Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients, and fold in the apples carefully to keep the batter airy. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh and hasn’t expired for proper rising.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, doubling the recipe works great especially if you’re serving a crowd. Just be sure to space the fritters well on the baking sheet and bake in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, so they bake evenly and puff up nicely.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking up a batch of Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze—warm, fragrant, and absolutely comforting in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing brunch idea, a cozy afternoon dessert, or just a way to brighten your day with sweet apples and spice, this recipe delivers in spades. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own; these fritters are sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!

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Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 8 fritters 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these delicious Baked Apple Fritters with a sweet lemon glaze. Made with tender diced apples, warm spices, and baked to golden perfection, these fritters offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions without sacrificing flavor or texture. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they deliver a comforting, fruity treat that’s light and easy to prepare.

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks. Toss them lightly with a pinch of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and granulated sugar. This ensures even distribution of spices and leavening throughout the batter.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg thoroughly. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and ready to be incorporated into the dry ingredients.
Stir Everything Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula just until combined; be careful not to overmix which could toughen the fritters. Carefully fold in the diced apple pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them up.
Bake the Fritters: Spoon dollops of the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them well to allow for rising. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Make the Glaze: While the fritters bake, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and 1-2 teaspoons of water. Adjust the water quantity to create a smooth, pourable consistency perfect for drizzling.
Glaze and Serve: Once the fritters have cooled slightly but are still warm, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top. Serve immediately to enjoy their tender texture and sweet-tangy finish.

Notes

For best results, use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent them from becoming too mushy during baking.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the fritters light and tender.
You can adjust the glaze thickness by adding more powdered sugar or water as needed.
These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
Optional: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra warmth in the spice profile.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American