Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with these deliciously spiced Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze. Unlike traditional deep-fried versions, these fritters are baked to golden perfection, making them a lighter yet equally satisfying treat. Perfect for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or as a cozy dessert on a crisp fall evening, this recipe brings together the natural sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a silky glaze that drapes over each fritter like morning dew on an orchard. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these apple fritters offer a delightful balance of texture and taste—all without the grease of frying.

The History of Apple Fritters

Apple fritters have a rich culinary history that spans continents and centuries. Originating in Europe, particularly in Germany and the United Kingdom, fritters were traditionally made by frying pieces of fruit in a batter and dusting them with sugar. The word “fritter” comes from the Latin *frictura*, meaning “a fry,” which evolved through Old French into Middle English. Early recipes appeared in medieval cookbooks, where fruits, meats, and even flowers were coated in spiced batters and fried in animal fat.

As European settlers migrated to North America, they brought their fritter-making traditions with them. Apples, being one of the most widely cultivated fruits in colonial America, quickly became a staple in fritter recipes. Over time, American bakers adapted the dish, adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice—flavors now synonymous with apple desserts. While traditionally fried, modern health-conscious bakers began experimenting with oven-baking methods in the late 20th century, leading to healthier versions that retain the same beloved flavor and texture.

Today, apple fritters are a popular item at bakeries, farmers markets, and fall festivals across the United States. They’ve become emblematic of harvest season, often served with coffee or paired with whipped cream and caramel sauce. This baked version honors that legacy while offering a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and this Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze recipe is no exception. Here’s a detailed look at what goes into each component and why it matters:

Dough Ingredients:

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and rise. It’s the base of the dough, giving the fritters their tender crumb.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the fritters puff up slightly in the oven, creating a light interior.
Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice: Warm spices that complement the apples and evoke nostalgic fall aromas.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth with its molasses content. It also contributes to a subtle caramelized flavor when baked.
Grated Cold Butter: Incorporates flakiness and richness. When baked, the butter melts, creating air pockets that result in a tender texture.
Unsweetened Applesauce: Keeps the dough moist while reducing the need for excess oil.
Milk: Hydrates the dry ingredients. Whole milk works best for richness, but any milk alternative can be used.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds protein for structure.
Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor profile with a sweet floral note.
Fresh Apples (peeled and diced): The star ingredient! Choose firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for the best texture and flavor balance.

Glaze Ingredients:

Powdered Sugar: Forms the base of the glaze, dissolving smoothly into a glossy finish.
Milk or Cream: Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Adds aromatic sweetness.
Lemon Zest or Juice (optional): Brightens the glaze and cuts through the sweetness.
Cinnamon (optional): Reinforces the warm spice theme.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these detailed steps to create soft, fluffy baked apple fritters topped with a luscious glaze. No frying required!

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon allspice. Stir in ¼ cup packed brown sugar.
Cut in Butter: Add ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, grated or cubed. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup unsweetened applesauce, ½ cup milk, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Form the Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula just until combined. Do not overmix. Fold in 1½ cups peeled and finely diced apples (about 2 medium apples).
Shape the Fritters: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each mound into a 3-inch circle about ½ inch thick. Leave at least 1 inch between each fritter for expansion.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Slightly: Remove from oven and let the fritters cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare the Glaze: While the fritters are cooling, make the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and optionally ½ teaspoon lemon juice or zest. Adjust thickness by adding more milk (for thinner) or powdered sugar (for thicker).
Glaze the Fritters: Once the fritters are warm but not hot (after about 10–15 minutes), dip the tops into the glaze or use a spoon to drizzle generously over each one. Allow the glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Fritters

Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the fritters tough. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
Use Cold Butter: Grating frozen butter ensures even distribution and helps create flaky layers.
Choose the Right Apples: Firm, tart apples hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness. Avoid overly juicy varieties like Red Delicious.
Uniform Size Matters: Scoop equal portions to ensure even baking. A #20 or #24 cookie scoop works perfectly.
Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: If you glaze the fritters while too hot, the glaze will melt and run off. Wait until they’re warm but not steaming.
Double the Batch: These fritters freeze well! Freeze unglazed fritters on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven and glaze before serving.
For Extra Crisp Edges: Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray before baking for a slightly crispier crust.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable. Try these creative twists to personalize your fritters:

Oatmeal Apple Fritters: Replace ½ cup of flour with old-fashioned oats for a heartier texture.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in ¼ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch.
Dried Fruit Twist: Add ¼ cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates along with the apples.
Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for some of the milk in the glaze for a rich, earthy sweetness.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Mix 2 oz softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla for a tangy contrast.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or cloves for deeper complexity.
Mini Fritters: Make bite-sized versions using a teaspoon scoop—perfect for parties or kids’ snacks.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are certified GF.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), use plant-based milk, and vegan butter. For the glaze, use dairy-free milk.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While still a treat, baked apple fritters are a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. By eliminating deep frying, you significantly reduce saturated fat and calorie content. Here’s a breakdown per serving (1 fritter, unglazed):

Calories: ~160–180
Total Fat: 5–7g (mostly from butter)
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 28–32g
Sugars: 12–15g (includes natural sugars from apples and added sugars)
Fiber: 2–3g (from apples and whole grains)
Protein: 3–4g
Sodium: ~150mg

Apples contribute vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, especially when the skin is left on (though peeling is recommended here for texture). Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose increases fiber and nutrients. To further reduce sugar, decrease brown sugar in the dough and use a lighter hand with the glaze—or skip it entirely and dust with cinnamon-sugar.

These fritters can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Pair them with Greek yogurt or a side of scrambled eggs to add protein and make them a more complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, grated or cubed
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups peeled and finely diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk or cream (dairy or non-dairy)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: ½ teaspoon lemon juice or zest, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

Preheat 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, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and brown sugar.
Add cold grated butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In another bowl, combine applesauce, milk, egg, and vanilla. Mix well.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in diced apples.
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart. Flatten slightly into 3-inch rounds.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
While cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and optional flavorings until smooth.
Once fritters are warm (not hot), dip or drizzle with glaze. Let set before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes! Bake and cool the fritters completely, then store unglazed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes and glaze just before serving.

Why are my fritters turning out dense?
Overmixing the dough or using overly ripe/juicy apples can cause density. Be gentle when mixing and blot excess moisture from diced apples if needed.

Can I use oil instead of butter?
While possible, butter provides better flavor and texture. If substituting, use 3 tablespoons of melted coconut or vegetable oil, but expect a slightly different crumb.

How do I store leftover fritters?
Store glazed fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Unglazed ones can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen longer.

Can I air fry these fritters?
Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray lightly with oil for a golden finish.

Are these fritters kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the sweet apple centers and sugary glaze. Serve with a glass of milk for a fun breakfast or snack.

Summary

These Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze offer all the cozy, spiced charm of traditional fritters without the greasy aftertaste—thanks to a simple oven-baking method. Packed with tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a silky vanilla glaze, they’re perfect for fall mornings, holiday spreads, or anytime you crave a homemade treat.