Description
These classic homemade Apple Fritters are golden, crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside, filled with tender apple pieces and warm cinnamon flavor. Finished with a light glaze or a simple dusting of sugar, they are the perfect comfort treat for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Introduction
Apple fritters are a timeless favorite found in bakeries, cafés, and home kitchens alike. With their irregular shape, crisp edges, and juicy apple-filled centers, they feel both rustic and indulgent. This recipe delivers bakery-style apple fritters using simple ingredients and an easy method, making them achievable even for beginner cooks.
Whether served warm with coffee or shared fresh from the fryer, these apple fritters bring cozy flavors and irresistible texture in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy outside and soft inside
Loaded with real apple chunks
Simple pantry ingredients
Ready in under 30 minutes
Perfect with or without glaze
Ingredients
For the Fritters
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon, plus extra for dusting
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup chopped nuts, optional
For Frying
Vegetable oil, for deep frying
For the Glaze Optional
1 cup powdered sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons milk or apple cider
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. Set aside. Using a mix of sweet and tart apples creates the best flavor.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using. Do not overmix.
Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Test with a small drop of batter; it should sizzle immediately.
Fry the Fritters
Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Glaze Optional
Whisk powdered sugar, milk or apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
Serve
Drizzle glaze over slightly cooled fritters or dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.
Variations
Add nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth
Use chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
Replace glaze with cinnamon sugar coating
Add raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness
Tips for the Best Results
Keep oil temperature steady for even frying
Do not overcrowd the pan
Dice apples small so they cook through
Mix batter gently to keep fritters fluffy
Storage Tips
Apple fritters are best eaten fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with coffee or tea
Pair with vanilla ice cream
Drizzle with caramel sauce
Enjoy as a sweet breakfast treat
FAQs
What apples work best
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of both
Can these be baked
Frying gives the best texture, but baking is possible at 375°F with slightly softer results
Can I make them ahead
They are best fresh, but batter can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated
Conclusion
This Apple Fritters recipe delivers everything you want from a classic treat: crisp edges, fluffy centers, and warm apple-cinnamon flavor. Easy to make and endlessly comforting, these fritters are guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.