If you love the cozy flavors of apple fritters but want a lighter, oven-baked version, this recipe is for you! These Rustic Baked Apple Fritters are packed with juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness—all without deep frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these fritters have a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy center.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Frying Required – A healthier take on the classic fritter.
- Soft & Fluffy Inside, Crispy Outside – Baked to golden perfection.
- Packed with Fresh Apples – Every bite bursts with cinnamon-spiced apple goodness.
- Easy & Rustic – No need for fancy shaping—just scoop and bake!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Fritters:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups) – For a soft, tender texture.
- Baking powder (2 tsp) – Helps create a fluffy fritter.
- Cinnamon (1 ½ tsp) – Adds warm spice.
- Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Optional, but adds depth of flavor.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
- Apples (1 ½ cups, peeled & diced) – Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best.
- Eggs (2 large) – Helps bind the batter.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup) – Just the right amount of sweetness.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup) – Adds a caramel-like flavor.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted) – For moisture and richness.
- Milk (½ cup) – Keeps the batter soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavors.
For the Glaze:
- Powdered sugar (1 cup) – For a smooth, sweet finish.
- Milk (2–3 tbsp) – Adjust for desired glaze consistency.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp) – Optional, but adds flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Cooling rack
How to Make Rustic Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine & Fold in Apples
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples without overmixing.
Step 5: Scoop & Bake
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter. The shape should be rustic—no need for perfection!
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While the fritters cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 7: Glaze & Enjoy!
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip them for full coverage. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style treat.
- Sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar for added crunch.
Tips for the Best Baked Apple Fritters
- Use Fresh Apples – The juicier the apples, the more flavorful the fritters.
- Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
- For Extra Crispiness – Brush the fritters with melted butter after baking and broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Chill the Dough – If your batter feels sticky, chill it for 15 minutes before baking.
Storing & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days. Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze unglazed fritters for up to 2 months. Reheat and glaze before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What apples work best? Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I add nuts? Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Conclusion
These Rustic Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect combination of warm apple spice, soft texture, and a sweet, glossy glaze. With no frying involved, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy! Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 160mg
Rustic Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
If you love the cozy flavors of apple fritters but want a lighter, oven-baked version, this recipe is for you! These Rustic Baked Apple Fritters are packed with juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness—all without deep frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these fritters have a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy center.
Want more delicious recipes like this? Subscribe now for weekly baking inspiration!
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups) – For a soft, tender texture.
- Baking powder (2 tsp) – Helps create a fluffy fritter.
- Cinnamon (1 ½ tsp) – Adds warm spice.
- Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Optional, but adds depth of flavor.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
- Apples (1 ½ cups, peeled & diced) – Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best.
- Eggs (2 large) – Helps bind the batter.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup) – Just the right amount of sweetness.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup) – Adds a caramel-like flavor.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted) – For moisture and richness.
- Milk (½ cup) – Keeps the batter soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavors.
For the Glaze:
- Powdered sugar (1 cup) – For a smooth, sweet finish.
- Milk (2–3 tbsp) – Adjust for desired glaze consistency.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp) – Optional, but adds flavor.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples without overmixing.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter. The shape should be rustic—no need for perfection!
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the fritters cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip them for full coverage. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use Fresh Apples – The juicier the apples, the more flavorful the fritters.
- Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
- For Extra Crispiness – Brush the fritters with melted butter after baking and broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Chill the Dough – If your batter feels sticky, chill it for 15 minutes before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
