Apple fritters are a classic comfort food that bridges the gap between breakfast and dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them with a morning cup of coffee or serving them as an after-dinner treat, these golden, crispy bites filled with tender apples and warm spices never fail to satisfy. In this recipe guide, you’ll learn how to make apple fritters from scratch, with tips for achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and glaze.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple and approachable – Uses common pantry ingredients.
Incredibly delicious – Crisp outside, fluffy inside, and bursting with apple flavor.
Perfect any time of day – Works for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Make-ahead friendly – Stays tasty even the next day when stored properly.
Ingredients List
For the Fritters
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
2 large eggs
⅓ cup milk
2 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Glaze
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: Makes about 10-12 fritters
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Fritters
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined — do not overmix.
Step 3: Fold in Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter until they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Fry the Fritters
Using a spoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Drain the Fritters
Use a slotted spoon to remove fritters from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 7: Make the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
Step 8: Glaze the Fritters
While still warm, dip or drizzle each fritter with the glaze. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
Best Apples for Fritters
For optimal texture and flavor, use apples that hold their shape during cooking:
Granny Smith – tart and firm
Honeycrisp – sweet and crisp
Braeburn – balanced sweetness and texture
Tips for Success
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can cause tough fritters. Stir until ingredients are just combined.
Monitor Oil Temperature
Use a thermometer to keep oil around 350°F. Too hot, and the fritters will brown too fast on the outside and stay raw inside.
Drain Excess Oil
Place fritters on a cooling rack or paper towels to remove excess oil for a lighter texture.
Glaze Variations
Cinnamon Glaze – Add ½ tsp cinnamon to the glaze for extra spice.
Maple Glaze – Use maple syrup in place of some of the milk.
Lemon Glaze – Swap milk for lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Baked Apple Fritters Option
Looking for a healthier twist?
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spoon fritter batter onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden.
Drizzle with glaze once cooled slightly.
Storage and Reheating
Storing
Place cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Coffee pairing: Serve warm fritters with a fresh cup of black coffee or a cinnamon latte.
Breakfast platter: Add scrambled eggs and bacon for a sweet and savory combo.
Dessert plate: Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re planning for a brunch or event:
Prepare the batter and keep it in the fridge for up to 1 hour.
Fry fresh just before serving for best texture.
You can also make them the day before and reheat in the oven.
Apple Fritter vs. Apple Donut
Though both are sweet apple treats, fritters differ from donuts in shape and texture. Fritters are more rustic and irregular, often pan-fried with bits of fruit, while donuts are typically round and uniform with yeast or cake bases.
FAQs
What oil is best for frying fritters?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but it will result in a denser fritter. Consider a 50/50 mix of all-purpose and whole wheat.
Can I freeze apple fritters?
Yes. Let them cool, freeze individually, then store in a bag. Reheat in an oven for best texture.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely. Try pears, bananas, or blueberries for variation.
Conclusion
Apple fritters are the perfect blend of crispy, soft, sweet, and spiced. With a simple batter and pantry-friendly ingredients, you can whip up a batch any time you’re craving something cozy and delicious. Whether served as breakfast or dessert, these fritters are bound to become a family favorite. Try making them this weekend, and enjoy the irresistible scent of cinnamon and apples wafting through your kitchen.