Baked Apple Fritters

Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside – Without Frying!

Who doesn’t love a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple fritter? Traditionally deep-fried, these Baked Apple Fritters offer the same fluffy texture, caramelized apples, and sweet glaze—but in a healthier, oven-baked version!

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert, these easy homemade fritters are made with fresh apples, warm spices, and a light glaze. Plus, baking them instead of frying reduces excess oil while keeping them soft, moist, and full of flavor.

If you’re craving an apple donut-style treat but want something a little lighter, this baked apple fritter recipe is for you!

Ingredients

For the Apple Fritter Dough:

250g all-purpose flour
50g granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
120ml whole milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
50g unsalted butter, melted
2 medium apples (250g), peeled, cored, and diced
1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents apples from browning)

For the Glaze:

120g powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Peel, core, and dice two apples, then toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape & Bake the Fritters

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5cm (2 inches) apart.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and let it set for a few minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Enjoy these warm, fresh, and lightly glazed baked apple fritters with a cup of coffee or tea!

Nutritional Information (Per Fritter – Makes 10-12 Fritters)

Calories: 180 kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fats: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 18g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Baked Apple Fritters

✨ Use firm apples – Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best for their crisp texture.

✨ Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy.

✨ Add extra spice – Try a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for more depth of flavor.

✨ Double glaze for extra sweetness – Let the first layer dry, then drizzle a second coat.

✨ Want a crunchier texture? – Lightly brush the tops with melted butter before baking!

✨ Make ahead & reheat – Store in an airtight container and warm in the oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Healthier than traditional fried fritters
✔ Packed with fresh apple flavor & warm spices
✔ Soft, fluffy texture with a light glaze
✔ Easy to make in just 30 minutes
✔ Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a fall treat