If you’ve ever stood over a pot of hot oil waiting for your apple fritters to crisp up just right—this recipe is your cozy, oven-baked escape. These Baked Apple Fritters offer everything you love about the classic treat: warm cinnamon, juicy apple chunks, and a sweet vanilla glaze. But here’s the kicker—no frying involved. Just mix, scoop, bake, and drizzle. Easy cleanup, less mess, and a whole lot of flavor.
The first bite is soft, fluffy, and packed with tender apples that melt in your mouth. The cinnamon-sugar aroma will fill your kitchen like the perfect fall-scented candle, but edible. Whether you’re baking with the kids, treating yourself, or looking for a cozy weekend project, this baked version is healthier and just as satisfying.
No special fryer, no splatters, and no stress. Just one bowl, a few pantry staples, and 25 minutes in the oven. Plus, you can make them ahead or freeze extras for later.
Ready to fall in love with fritters all over again? Let’s bake!
What Makes This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe Special?
- No frying required – healthier and easier cleanup
- Loaded with real apple chunks – fresh, juicy texture in every bite
- Simple pantry ingredients – nothing fancy needed
- Ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for last-minute cravings
- Perfectly spiced – cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla for warm flavor
This baked version cuts out the mess and oil of traditional fritters while still delivering that irresistible texture. You’ll love the moist, cakey interior and golden-brown exterior (especially when it’s drizzled with glaze). Bonus: the batter comes together in just minutes, and you don’t even need a mixer!
Ingredient Notes
- Apples: Use crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for tart-sweet balance and minimal sogginess.
- All-purpose flour: Keeps the fritters light and cakey. Substitute with gluten-free 1:1 blend if needed.
- Baking powder: Helps the fritters rise and stay fluffy.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples.
- Ground cinnamon & nutmeg: Essential for warm, cozy spice.
- Egg: Binds the batter and adds structure.
- Milk: Keeps the batter smooth—dairy or non-dairy options work.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor.
- Powdered sugar + milk (for glaze): Classic sweet finish. Swap milk for lemon juice for a zingy twist.
Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Ice cream scoop or spoon
How To Make Baked Apple Fritters
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk 1 egg, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mix until just combined (don’t overmix!).
5. Gently stir in 1 heaping cup of peeled and diced apples.
6. Scoop batter onto the prepared baking sheet using an ice cream scoop. Space them 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 22-25 minutes, until golden and firm to touch. Let cool slightly.
8. Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons milk to make glaze. Drizzle over warm fritters.
Tip: For a crispier bottom, bake directly on a non-stick baking mat.
Storage Options
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unglazed fritters in a zip bag for 2–3 months.
- To reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–8 minutes or microwave 15–20 seconds.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Use pears or peaches instead of apples.
- Swap glaze for a maple or caramel drizzle.
- Try with pumpkin spice instead of just cinnamon.
- Make them mini-size for bite-sized party treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can bake and freeze them, then glaze just before serving.
Why are my fritters too dense? Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can make them heavy. Stir until just combined.
Can I use almond milk or oat milk? Absolutely—any non-dairy milk will work here.
Do I need to peel the apples? Peeling is recommended for a smooth texture, but it’s optional.
Can I bake these in a muffin tin? Yes! You’ll get apple fritter muffins—just adjust baking time to 18–20 minutes.
What kind of apples are best? Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and add great flavor.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Fritters are a total win—less mess, less oil, but all the cozy fall flavor. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this is a recipe worth keeping on repeat. Don’t forget to drizzle with glaze and share a batch with someone you love.
Happy baking, and let me know how yours turn out!
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Baked Apple Fritters That Taste Like Fall in Every Bite
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1–2 tbsp milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line baking sheet.
- Mix dry ingredients in one bowl.
- Whisk egg, sugar, milk, and vanilla in another.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Fold in apples.
- Scoop onto tray, bake 22–25 min.
- Drizzle glaze over warm fritters.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~160
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g