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)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to brighten your morning or treat yourself to a cozy afternoon snack, these Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze are an absolute must-try. Combining tender, slightly spiced apple chunks with a soft, cake-like batter and a silky sweet glaze, this recipe brings that perfect balance of warm cinnamon sweetness and light, airy texture without the mess of frying. It’s a comforting, irresistibly delicious way to enjoy the wonderful flavor of apples in a simple, approachable form that everyone will love.

Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting these lovely fritters—the apples provide a fresh, tart burst of flavor, the spices add warmth and depth, and the glaze ties it all together with a touch of brightness and sweetness. The ingredients are straightforward, easy to source, and come together to create a dish that feels both special and homey.

2 medium firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Peeled, cored, and diced to bring a crisp, juicy contrast in every bite.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that creates a tender and slightly cakey fritter.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the fritters puff up beautifully during baking.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic cozy warmth that’s perfect with apples.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle spice that deepens the autumnal flavor profile.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just enough to complement the tart apples.
1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and light.
1 large egg: Binds everything together, ensuring the perfect texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and brings a lovely aromatic note.
1 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze that adds a luscious finish.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Balances the sweetness of the glaze with a refreshing zing.
1-2 teaspoons water: Adjust for a smooth glaze consistency that drizzles perfectly over the fritters.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into small, uniform chunks. Toss them lightly with a pinch of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar to infuse extra warmth and sweetness. This helps bring out the apples’ natural juiciness and flavor, setting the stage for fritters that burst with apple goodness in each bite.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. This mixture evenly distributes the flavors, ensuring every fritter is perfectly spiced and rises beautifully once baked. Taking the time to mix these well is key to that consistent taste and texture we all crave.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. The vanilla adds a lovely fragrant layer that elevates the overall flavor, while the milk and egg work together to keep your fritters moist and tender.

Step 4: Stir Everything Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir just until combined—it’s important not to overmix here to keep the fritters light and fluffy. Then fold in those cinnamon-kissed apple chunks carefully to spread them evenly throughout without breaking them down, preserving that wonderful chunky texture.

Step 5: Bake the Fritters

Spoon the batter by generous dollops onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving each fritter room to puff up. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. The result is a batch of fritters with a lightly crisp exterior and soft, tender interior that’s just begging to be enjoyed.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the fritters are baking, whisk together powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and enough water to create a glaze that’s smooth and drizzle-friendly. The lemon juice cuts through the sweetness and adds a bright note that perfectly complements the warm spices and apples.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Once your fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the shiny glaze over the top. Serve them warm for the ultimate cozy experience with a delightful combination of flavors and textures. These Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze truly shine at this stage, inviting you to take that first blissful bite.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Garnishes

To elevate your serving experience, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or chopped toasted nuts over the glazed fritters for added texture and flavor. Fresh apple slices or a dusting of powdered sugar also make for beautiful and tasty garnishes that turn these fritters into a show-stopping treat.

Side Dishes

These fritters pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making them a delightful dessert option. For breakfast or brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweet and spicy notes with something savory and warm.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the fritters on a pretty plate and drizzle extra glaze between layers for a charming fritter tower. You could also serve them alongside a small bowl of spiced apple compote for dipping or create a plated dessert with fresh fruit and a sprinkle of granola for crunch. The possibilities are endless and all delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigeration is best but be aware this might slightly soften their crispy edges.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these fritters later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months and can be quickly thawed when you’re ready for a sweet treat.

Reheating

To bring your fritters back to life, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore their golden exterior and warm, tender interior. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain a bit of their original crispness.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their firmness and flavor, you can try Fuji, Braeburn, or even Gala apples. Just make sure the apples are firm enough to hold their shape during baking.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but the fritters will still be delicious.

Can I make these fritters without the glaze?

Of course! The fritters are tasty on their own, but the glaze adds a lovely sweet tang that complements the spice and apple flavors perfectly. You might consider dusting them with powdered sugar or serving with maple syrup as alternatives.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice for the glaze?

If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, you can use bottled lemon juice or substitute with a mild vinegar like apple cider vinegar for a similar tang. Just use sparingly to avoid overpowering the glaze.

How do I make sure the fritters bake evenly?

Make sure to space the dollops of batter evenly on your baking sheet and use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Preheating the oven and not overmixing the batter also help them bake up light and with an even golden color.

Final Thoughts

Making Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze is one of those simple kitchen joys that fills your home with warmth and invites smiles with every bite. The combination of tender, spiced apples and sweet glaze is a comforting treat worth savoring any time of day. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!

Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

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

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Description

These Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters. Made with crisp, juicy apples and a warm blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, these baked treats are lightly sweetened and topped with a tangy lemon glaze, perfect for a cozy dessert or breakfast treat.

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks. Toss them with a little cinnamon and sugar to infuse extra flavor and set aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar until fully combined for even flavor distribution.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth and ready to be mixed with the dry ingredients.
Stir Everything Together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples carefully to keep the batter light and tender without overmixing.
Bake the Fritters: Spoon dollops of batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow puffing. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes or until golden and fully cooked through.
Make the Glaze: While baking, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice and a little water until achieving a smooth drizzle consistency perfect for glazing.
Glaze and Serve: After fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. Serve warm for the best taste experience and delightful texture.

Notes

Use firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
Adjust the water in the glaze to achieve your preferred consistency for drizzling.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
These fritters can be served warm or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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