Baked Apple Fritters (Quick & Easy)

Soft, warm, and lightly spiced — without the frying.
These baked apple fritters are a simple, cozy treat that tastes like fall in every bite. Inspired by the viral favorite, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a sweet, comforting snack.

INTRODUCTION

Apple fritters are traditionally fried dough pieces mixed with apples and cinnamon, then glazed for a sweet finish. But frying can be messy and time-consuming — so this baked version keeps all the flavor while staying easy and quick.

These fritters are soft inside with a slightly crisp top. The apples stay tender, the cinnamon adds warmth, and the sweetness is just right. They’re great with coffee, tea, or vanilla ice cream.

INGREDIENTS

Makes about 10–12 fritters

Fritter Batter

2 cups apples, peeled and chopped
1 cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup milk
2 tbsp melted butter

Optional Add-Ins

½ tsp nutmeg
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries

Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Apples

Peel and chop apples into small pieces.
Set aside.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter.

4. Combine Everything

Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until combined.
Fold in the chopped apples.

5. Bake the Fritters

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop spoonfuls of batter onto the sheet, spacing them apart.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Add Glaze (Optional)

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over warm fritters.

METHODS (Tips for the Best Results)

Method 1: Perfect Texture

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Chop apples small so they bake evenly.

Method 2: Crisp on Top

Bake on a preheated baking sheet to help the bottom get golden.

Method 3: Extra Flavor

Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of apple cider for deeper taste.

HISTORY & ORIGIN

Apple fritters are a classic treat that date back to early European frying traditions. They became popular in the United States as a sweet bakery favorite, especially in fall when apples are in season.

Traditionally, fritters are fried — but baked versions like this became popular because they’re lighter, faster, and easier while still delivering the same warm apple-cinnamon flavor.

FORMATION (How This Dish Comes Together)

This recipe is formed by combining:

Dry base (flour + sugar + baking powder)
Wet base (egg + milk + butter)
Apples + spices
Baked into soft fritters
Optional glaze for sweetness

It’s a simple structure that produces a dessert that feels homemade and cozy.

CONCLUSION

These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect treat when you want something warm, sweet, and comforting — without the mess of frying. They’re soft, flavorful, and easy to make, which makes them a favorite for busy days and cozy evenings.