Lighter Baked Apple Fritters with Cinnamon and Sweet Glaze
Craving the comforting, nostalgic flavors of apple fritters but want a lighter twist? These Lighter Baked Apple Fritters are the answer! By baking instead of frying, this recipe delivers all the warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness of traditional fritters with a fraction of the oil. Juicy, tender apple chunks are folded into a soft, lightly sweetened batter, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a delicate drizzle of sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, these fritters are a crowd-pleaser that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
This recipe yields about 8–10 fritters, depending on size, and is designed to be simple yet satisfying. With a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples, you’ll create a dessert or snack that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Let’s get baking with this healthier take on a classic favorite!
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended for a balance of tart and sweet), peeled, cored, and diced into ¼-inch pieces
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accurate measuring)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1¾ tsp baking powder (for a light, fluffy texture)
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon (for warm, cozy flavor)
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)
- ¼ tsp kosher salt (to balance the sweetness)
- ½ cup whole milk (or 2% for a slightly lighter option)
- 1 large egg (for structure and richness)
- 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract (for a fragrant, sweet note)
- 2½ tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (for a tender crumb)
- Cooking spray or parchment paper (for preparing the baking sheet)
For the Glaze:
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar, sifted (for a smooth, lump-free glaze)
- 1½ tbsp milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based milk like almond or oat)
- ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional, for a spiced glaze)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s fully heated for even baking. Position a rack in the middle of the oven for optimal heat distribution.
- Prep the baking sheet: Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. For an extra non-stick surface, you can lightly spray the parchment as well.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper, a silicone baking mat works wonderfully for evenly baked fritters.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and kosher salt. Whisking ensures the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed for a consistent texture.
- Check for lumps: If your flour or sugar is clumpy, sift the dry ingredients together to ensure a smooth batter.
Pro Tip: For a fun twist, try adding ¼ tsp of ground ginger or cardamom to the dry mix for a unique flavor profile.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and fully combined. The melted butter adds richness while keeping the batter light.
- Cool the butter: Ensure the melted butter is slightly cooled before adding to prevent it from cooking the egg or curdling the milk.
Pro Tip: For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative and use melted coconut oil or vegan butter in place of the unsalted butter.
Step 4: Combine and Fold in Apples
- Make the batter: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fritters dense.
- Add the apples: Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. The apples add bursts of juicy flavor and natural sweetness.
Pro Tip: Toss the diced apples with a teaspoon of lemon juice before folding them in to prevent browning and add a subtle tangy note.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
- Form the fritters: Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop 2–3 tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently shape each mound into a round, slightly flattened fritter shape using the back of the spoon or your fingers.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.
Pro Tip: For uniform fritters, use an ice cream scoop with a release mechanism to portion the batter consistently.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps. Add the milk and optional vanilla extract or pinch of cinnamon, whisking until smooth. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle but thick enough to coat the fritters lightly.
- Adjust consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
Pro Tip: For a fun variation, try adding a teaspoon of maple syrup to the glaze for a cozy, autumnal flavor.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
- Drizzle the glaze: Once the fritters are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack or serving platter, then drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters using a spoon or a small piping bag for a decorative touch.
- Serve warm: Enjoy the fritters immediately for the best texture, when the exterior is slightly crisp and the interior is soft and apple-filled. Serve on their own or with a side of yogurt or whipped cream for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or apple cider for a cozy morning treat.
- Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Snack: Pack a few fritters for a picnic or lunchbox treat—they’re just as delicious at room temperature.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Apple Varieties: Try Fuji or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor, or mix tart and sweet apples for complexity.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of allspice or cloves to the batter for a warmer, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in ¼ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the apples for added texture.
- Healthier Glaze: Use Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of honey instead of the powdered sugar glaze for a protein-packed alternative.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the batter (without apples) up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate. Fold in the apples just before baking to keep them fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These lighter baked apple fritters are a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The baked method reduces oil without sacrificing the crispy edges and tender, apple-studded interior you love in classic fritters. The warm cinnamon, juicy apples, and sweet glaze create a perfect balance of cozy and fresh, making these fritters a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a simple dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apple fritters? Give this recipe a try and share your creations with us in the comments! How do you like to enjoy your fritters—warm from the oven or with a special topping?
