Apple fritters are the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, soft and packed with juicy apples on the inside, with a sweet glaze that takes them over the top. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a dessert, or a sweet snack, these homemade fritters will quickly become a favorite in your household. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Fresh Apples – Every bite is filled with soft, caramelized apples.
- Perfectly Crispy Texture – Golden brown on the outside, soft and airy inside.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a quick and easy treat.
- Irresistible Glaze – A light vanilla glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the Apple Fritters:
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons applesauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the applesauce until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until well blended. Gradually pour this into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a smooth, thick batter forms. Gently fold in the diced apples.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small amount of batter—if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of batter into the hot oil, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each fritter for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown.
Once cooked, remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency if needed by adding more milk or powdered sugar.
Step 5: Glaze the Fritters
While the fritters are still warm, drizzle the glaze over the top or dip each fritter into the glaze for a sweeter touch. Let them set for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Use the Right Apples – Granny Smith apples add a slight tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples provide extra sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – A few lumps are fine; overmixing can make the fritters dense.
- Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature – Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too cool, and they absorb excess oil.
- Drain Properly – Letting fritters rest on paper towels prevents them from becoming greasy.
Substitutions and Variations
- Make It Dairy-Free – Use almond or oat milk and swap the butter for coconut oil.
- Add a Crunch – Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating – Instead of glaze, roll warm fritters in cinnamon sugar for a classic touch.
- Spiced Flavor – Add nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, though they won’t be as crispy.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I reheat apple fritters?
A: Yes! Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or in an air fryer for a crispy finish.
Q: Can I freeze apple fritters?
A: Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a warm, crispy apple fritter fresh out of the fryer, coated in a sweet glaze. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with coffee. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these homemade fritters are sure to be a hit. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again!