Baked Apple Fritters
These Baked Apple Fritters deliver all the nostalgic flavors of a classic apple fritter but in a healthier, easier-to-make package. With 40% less fat than traditional fried versions, they combine chunks of juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a sweet glaze without requiring any specialized equipment or deep-frying skills.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 18 minutes mins
Cooling Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 48 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 fritters
Calories 180 kcal
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Mixing Bowls
Whisk
Measuring Cups
For the fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs room temperature preferred
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, about 2 medium apples)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don't overmix - some small lumps are good for tender fritters.
Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula. For best texture, use a mix of small (¼ inch) and slightly larger (½ inch) apple pieces.
Using a ¼ cup measuring cup or ice cream scoop, drop mounds of batter onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each mound with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 15-18 minutes until they're golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the fritters are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust with additional milk as needed for desired consistency.
Allow the fritters to cool for 5 minutes before drizzling or brushing the glaze over them. For an extra-decadent finish, apply a second coat of glaze after the first one has set (about 3-5 minutes).
- Whole wheat flour can replace up to half the all-purpose flour for additional fiber
- Plant-based milk works perfectly for dairy-free needs
- Coconut oil or applesauce can substitute for butter
- For a less sweet option, reduce sugar to ¼ cup and add an extra dash of cinnamon
- For the best apple texture, use firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep fritters light and fluffy
Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 3gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18g
Keyword Apple Fritters, Baked Fritters, Healthy Fritters, Apple Pastry, Breakfast Pastry