Introduction
These warm baked apple fritters are everything you love about classic apple fritters, but lighter because they’re baked, not fried. Soft, fluffy, packed with cinnamon-spiced apples, and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dessert with coffee.
Ingredients
For the Fritters
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but amazing)
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced small (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Apple Filling
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 diced apples (from above, or extra if you want them extra chunky)
For the Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are slightly soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 4
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Step 5
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6
Fold the cooked apples into the batter.
Step 7
Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter per fritter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Step 8
Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until lightly golden and set in the center.
Step 9
Turn oven to broil. Broil fritters for 1–2 minutes to get a golden top. Watch closely so they don’t burn.
Glaze
Step 10
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 11
Drizzle glaze over warm fritters. Let it set for a few minutes.
Tips
Use tart apples for the best flavor contrast
Dice apples small so they cook evenly
Best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a just-baked feel
Serving Ideas
Serve with coffee or tea
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
Dust with extra cinnamon for fall vibes
Conclusion
These warm baked apple fritters are soft, sweet, and filled with cozy cinnamon flavor. Easy to make, lighter than fried versions, and absolutely irresistible.