Big Apple Fritters are everything you love about fall wrapped into one indulgent treat. These golden, crispy bites are packed with sweet apple chunks and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then drizzled with a velvety glaze for the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re making them for a cozy breakfast, a fall-inspired snack, or a sweet ending to your meal, these apple fritters never disappoint.
Let’s take a deep dive into how to make these delicious apple fritters from scratch, complete with helpful tips and variations so you can perfect them every time.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritters
Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside
Each fritter boasts a beautifully golden crust that crackles with each bite, while the inside remains tender and bursting with apple flavor.
Loaded with Fall Flavors
Cinnamon and nutmeg pair perfectly with juicy apple chunks to deliver that unmistakable autumn warmth in every mouthful.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
With pantry staples and a few apples, you can create a homemade dessert that feels bakery-quality.
Customizable to Your Taste
Whether you prefer a sweeter fritter, extra spice, or a different glaze, this recipe is flexible and easy to adapt.
Ingredients
For the Apple Fritters
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk for best results)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust to desired thickness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Cinnamon sugar (mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Batter
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla until well combined. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until the batter forms. It’s okay if there are a few lumps—do not overmix.
Fold in the chopped apples until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, aiming for about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A candy thermometer works best here, but you can test it by dropping a small amount of batter in—if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
Use a spoon or small scoop to drop about 2–3 tablespoons of batter into the hot oil per fritter. Do not overcrowd the pan—fry in small batches.
Fry each fritter for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning with a slotted spoon when the bottom is golden brown.
Once cooked through and evenly browned, transfer fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
Whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust with a bit more milk if needed to achieve your desired drizzling consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over cooled fritters using a spoon or dip the tops for a thicker coating.
Step 5: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar (Optional)
For a sweet and crunchy finish, roll the warm fritters in cinnamon sugar instead of glazing them.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
These are best served warm. Pair with coffee, hot tea, or a spiced cider for a comforting treat that’s perfect for fall.
Serving Suggestions
For Breakfast
Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent morning meal.
At Gatherings
Place them on a rustic tray for fall parties, Thanksgiving, or Halloween events—your guests will love them.
With Extra Toppings
Add chopped nuts, raisins, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a more layered flavor and texture experience.
Make-Ahead Tip
Store unglazed fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Fritters
- Use cold apples: This helps keep the batter firm while frying and creates a satisfying contrast of textures.
- Don’t overmix: A few lumps in your batter are fine. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense fritters.
- Monitor oil temperature: Too hot and the fritters burn outside while staying raw inside. Too cold and they absorb oil and become greasy.
- Drain properly: Place freshly fried fritters on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to remove excess oil.
- Smaller fritters cook more evenly: Consider making mini fritters if serving at a party or looking for a bite-sized snack.
- Let glaze set: Allow the glaze to firm up slightly before serving, especially if transporting or stacking fritters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are apple fritters made of?
Apple fritters are typically made from a simple batter of flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and baking powder, combined with chopped apples and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They are deep-fried until golden and often glazed or coated in cinnamon sugar.
Can I bake apple fritters instead of frying them?
While frying yields the best texture, you can bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes. Keep in mind they won’t be as crispy.
Which apples work best in fritters?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they hold their shape and add a balance of sweetness and tartness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store unglazed fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness. Glazed fritters are best enjoyed the day they’re made.
Can I freeze apple fritters?
Yes, but freeze them before glazing. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven and glaze just before serving.
Why are my fritters greasy?
Fritters become greasy if the oil temperature is too low. Always heat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the first bite of a freshly fried apple fritter—crispy on the outside, soft and spiced on the inside, with juicy apple bits in every mouthful. They’re nostalgic, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make from scratch.
Whether you’re frying a batch for a weekend brunch or preparing them for a festive gathering, these Big Apple Fritters bring joy and flavor in equal measure. Keep this recipe in your back pocket, and every season can feel like fall.