Name: Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray, for greasing; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp kosher salt; 2 tsp cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup no-sugar-added applesauce; 1 ½ cups peeled and finely diced Honeycrisp apples (about 2 medium apples); 2 cups powdered sugar; ⅓ cup plus 2 TBSP apple cider or apple juice

Jump to Recipe·4 from 5 reviews

If you have a soft spot for cozy fall flavors with a crunchy-sweet twist, you are going to adore this Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe. These bite-sized delights capture the comforting essence of classic apple fritters but baked to perfection, making them lighter yet every bit as indulgent. Loaded with juicy Honeycrisp apples and topped with a luscious apple glaze that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, these baked treats are irresistibly shareable and perfect for every occasion from breakfast nibbles to afternoon snacks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with two different mixtures side by side. On the left, there is a layer of small, pale yellow apple pieces, chopped finely and stacked neatly. On the right, a thicker, light brown batter with a slightly rough texture fills the remaining space. A wooden spatula with a white silicone tip rests inside the bowl, its handle leaning gently outwards. A white cloth and two wooden spoons lie in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have lets you whip up these Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe effortlessly. Each component plays a vital role—firm apples bring freshness and texture, warm cinnamon adds cozy spice, while the glaze elevates every bite with sweet apple magic.

Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for preventing the fritters from sticking while baking perfectly crisp edges.
All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): Forms the soft, cakey base that holds the apples beautifully.
Baking powder (2 tsp): Gives the fritters their light and airy rise.
Kosher salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
Cinnamon (2 tsp): A classic spice that compliments the apple’s natural sweetness.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup): Melted for richness and moisture in the batter.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the fritters themselves.
Large egg (1): Binds everything together for perfect texture.
Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Infuses subtle warmth and depth.
No-sugar-added applesauce (½ cup): Maintains moisture and enhances natural apple flavor.
Peeled and finely diced Honeycrisp apples (1 ½ cups): The star ingredient—crisp, juicy, and sweet for that wonderful bite in every morsel.
Powdered sugar (2 cups, for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet coating that sets beautifully.
Apple cider or apple juice (⅓ cup plus 2 TBSP, for glaze): Adds bright apple flavor and the perfect consistency to the glaze.

How to Make Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400 F (200 C) and spraying a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your fritters come out perfectly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until they’re evenly combined. This sets the foundation for a tender, flavorful fritter with the perfect hint of spice.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Batter

In a larger bowl, stir together melted butter, sugar, and the egg until silky smooth. Then, add vanilla extract and no-sugar-added applesauce, mixing to incorporate the moist richness that helps the fritters stay soft and moist. Slowly fold in the dry flour mixture just until combined—overmixing can make them tough. Finally, gently fold in the diced Honeycrisp apples, which promise succulent bites bursting with fruit.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Fritter Bites

Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of the batter spaced a few inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them for about 10 minutes, allowing the fritters to rise and develop a lovely golden color. When they come out of the oven, switch on your broiler to high—this next step brings the glaze to life.

Step 4: Whisk and Apply the Apple Glaze

While baking, whisk together powdered sugar and apple cider or juice until thin and smooth. Brush this apple glaze generously over each warm fritter, letting it drip down the sides. Pop the baking sheet back under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes, rotating it every minute to caramelize the glaze evenly without burning. This caramelization gives an irresistible glossy finish and a subtle crispness on top.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch of Glaze

Once broiled, brush the remaining glaze over the fritters evenly. Let them rest on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes so the glaze sets into a delicate, crackly finish. Your Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe is now ready to delight!

How to Serve Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe

The image shows nine small round cookies arranged in three rows on white parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a golden-brown top with visible small chunks of apple embedded in the dough, giving a slightly rough and uneven texture. A shiny, translucent glaze coats the top of the cookies, pooling slightly around them and creating a glossy finish. The cookies look soft with light browned edges and moist centers, and the photo captures the light reflecting off the glaze and the texture of the apples within the dough photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an eye-catching finish, dust your Apple Fritter Bites with a little powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans. A small sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

These bites are incredible on their own but pair spectacularly with warm beverages like chai tea, hot apple cider, or a creamy latte. Serve alongside a bowl of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for extra indulgence and a creamy balance against their crisp edges.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box by threading several fritter bites onto appetizer skewers for a fun party platter. You can also serve them atop a bed of cinnamon-scented oats or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe left over, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They maintain their tender crumb and fruity burst, making them an easy treat to enjoy later.

Freezing

These fritters freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before reheating. This way, you always have a quick, delicious snack on hand.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat your Apple Fritter Bites in a 350 F oven for 5 to 10 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, zapping them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds works in a pinch, but the oven method helps keep their delightful texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples offer perfect sweetness and texture, tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweeter ones like Fuji will also work well. Just make sure to dice them finely so they cook evenly.

Why bake instead of fry the Apple Fritter Bites?

Baking these fritters makes them lighter and easier to prepare, without compromising on flavor. Plus, it reduces the mess and oil usage, resulting in a more healthful yet indulgent treat.

Can I make the apple glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apple glaze a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge and whisk before using to restore its silky texture.

What is the best way to dice apples for this recipe?

Peeling and dicing apples into small, uniform pieces (about ¼-inch) ensures they cook evenly and distribute throughout the batter for maximum flavor in every bite.

Can I use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend works well to keep this recipe accessible for gluten-free diets. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Glaze Recipe that makes you want to reach for just one more. The combination of tender apple-packed fritters topped with luscious, caramelized apple glaze is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is pure joy in every bite. Give it a try and watch how quickly they disappear!