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 looking for a cozy, slightly sweet treat that captures the essence of autumn without a deep-fry mess, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze. These delightful little bites combine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked into a soft, fluffy batter and topped with a tangy-sweet glaze that’s absolutely irresistible. Perfect for a weekend brunch, an afternoon tea, or a simple dessert, this recipe brings all the warmth and comfort of classic fritters but with a lighter, healthier twist that you’ll fall in love with instantly.

Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but chosen with care to give your fritters amazing flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color. Each component plays a vital role, from the crisp-tart apples to the spicy warmth of cinnamon and the perfect balance of the glaze.

2 medium firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Provides a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness while holding their shape well during baking.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your batter, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the fritters rise and become delightfully fluffy inside.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice that beautifully complements the apples.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle depth of flavor that elevates every bite.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just enough to balance the tart apples.
1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth for perfect baking consistency.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and helps create a soft, cakey texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant sweetness that rounds out all the flavors.
1 cup powdered sugar: Essential for the glaze, offering a sweet finishing touch.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the glaze’s sweetness.
1-2 teaspoons water: Used to adjust glaze consistency to just the right drizzle.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

First things first, peel, core, and dice your apples into small, bite-friendly chunks. Toss these pieces with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a little sugar to infuse them with extra sweet and spicy notes that will shine through in every mouthful.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and granulated sugar. This blend ensures your fritters have even flavor distribution and just the right rise, creating a tender yet structured bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat your egg until smooth, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract. This wet mixture is the magic that brings the batter together, providing moisture and subtle flavor.

Step 4: Stir Everything Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender texture, not tough. Finally, fold in your diced apples carefully, making sure they’re evenly distributed but without breaking them down.

Step 5: Bake the Fritters

Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them so they have room to puff up. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes until they’re golden and set. The house will fill with the incredible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples, a true sign you’re on the right track.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While your fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and a bit of water until you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze. This glaze adds a bright, sweet finish that complements the warm spices beautifully.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle your glaze generously over the top. Serve them warm for the best taste and texture—soft with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s like a hug on a plate.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, sprinkle some extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar on your finished fritters. A few fresh mint leaves or thin apple slices can add a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the baked spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

These fritters are fantastic on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. For a breakfast version, serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to enhance the cozy vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try stacking a few fritters and drizzling extra glaze in a zigzag pattern on a fancy plate. Add some fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a beautiful, irresistible presentation that tastes as good as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 4 days. They remain soft and flavorful, ready to brighten your day again.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these fritters later, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep fresh for up to 2 months, perfect for quick treats anytime you crave a little apple goodness.

Reheating

To bring your fritters back to life, warm them gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This method preserves their tender texture better than the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and balance sweetness with tartness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or even Braeburn apples depending on your preference for sweetness and texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum included. The fritters may be a little more delicate but will still taste fantastic with the glaze.

Can I make Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The fritters will be just as delicious and moist.

How thick should I make the glaze?

The glaze should be thick enough to coat the fritters without running off entirely. If it’s too thick, add a little more water or lemon juice; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach that perfect drizzle consistency.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter and keep it in the fridge for a few hours, but I recommend adding the apples just before baking. This keeps the apples fresh and prevents the batter from overdeveloping and becoming tough.

Final Thoughts

Making and sharing Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze brings such comforting joy to my kitchen, and I’m sure it will to yours too. Warm, soft, and sweet with just the right hint of spice, this recipe is a little bit of happiness rolled into every bite. So don’t hesitate—grab those apples and create a batch that will soon become your favorite go-to treat!

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Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 28 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 10 fritters 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these light and fluffy Baked Apple Fritters with a sweet lemon glaze, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a comforting dessert. Using crisp Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these baked treats offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters without sacrificing flavor.

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 granulated sugar to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor, then set aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and granulated sugar until well combined. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the large egg thoroughly, then add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the liquid mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Stir Everything Together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and developing gluten. Carefully fold in the diced apples, maintaining a light batter texture for tender fritters.
Bake the Fritters: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon dollops of batter onto the sheet, spacing them evenly to allow puffing. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through, checking with a toothpick if needed.
Make the Glaze: While the fritters bake, combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and thin enough to drizzle. Add more water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Glaze and Serve: Allow the baked fritters to cool slightly on a rack, then drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Serve warm to enjoy the delightful combination of tender apple bites and sweet, tangy glaze.

Notes

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and tartness.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the fritters light and tender.
The glaze can be adjusted for sweetness or thickness by changing the amount of powdered sugar or lemon juice.
For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk.
These fritters are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven for crispiness.

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