Name: Apple Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Vegetable oil for frying; 1½ cups all-purpose flour (180g); 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¾ cup whole milk (180mL); 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 large apples (about 1 pound/450g), peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); For the Glaze:; 2 cups powdered sugar (240g); 3 to 4 tablespoons whole milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re looking to shake up your breakfast routine, these homemade apple fritters are just what you need. Lightly crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and filled with sweet chunks of apple, they come together quickly using pantry staples and fresh apples. Finished with a simple vanilla glaze, these fritters make for a delicious treat any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These apple fritters are incredibly easy to make and ready in under an hour. You’ll love the contrast of the crispy fried exterior with the soft, cinnamon-spiced interior packed with juicy apple pieces. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, and the vanilla glaze takes them over the top. Best of all, they require no yeast and no fancy equipment—just a bowl, a pot, and some love.

Apple Fritters

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Fritters:

Vegetable oil for frying
1½ cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¾ cup whole milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large apples (about 1 pound), peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

For the Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar
3 to 4 tablespoons whole milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Fill a large pot or Dutch oven with vegetable oil about 1½ inches deep. Attach a candy or deep fry thermometer to the side and heat the oil to 350°F over medium-high heat.
Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place a wire rack on top.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
Use a spatula to fold the mixture until just a few streaks of flour remain. Add the diced apples and fold until the batter is fully combined.
Once the oil reaches temperature, scoop the batter by ¼-cup portions into the hot oil. Fry 4 to 6 fritters at a time to avoid overcrowding.
Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook another 2 minutes.
Transfer to the wire rack using a slotted spoon and repeat with the remaining batter.
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Adjust with more milk if needed for a thinner glaze.
Dip each fritter in the glaze or drizzle it over the top. Let them sit for 10 minutes so the glaze can set.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10 fritters
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Apple Cinnamon Sugar Fritters: Skip the glaze and toss warm fritters in cinnamon sugar.
Maple Glazed Fritters: Swap vanilla in the glaze with maple extract.
Spiced Fritters: Add nutmeg or allspice for a warmer flavor.
Apple-Pear Combo: Replace one apple with a ripe pear for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Mini Fritters: Use a tablespoon scoop for bite-sized fritters.
No Glaze: Enjoy them plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Add Nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Cider Fritters: Replace some of the milk with apple cider for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover apple fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days—note that refrigeration may soften the exterior and melt the glaze.

To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 325°F for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

FAQs

What kind of apples are best for fritters?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best because they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?

While baking is possible, it won’t give you the same crisp exterior. Frying is recommended for authentic texture and flavor.

Do I need a thermometer for frying?

A thermometer helps maintain the correct oil temperature, which is crucial for evenly cooked and non-greasy fritters.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to fry the fritters immediately after making the batter, as the baking powder activates quickly and may lose effectiveness over time.

Can I freeze apple fritters?

Yes, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

How do I prevent oily fritters?

Make sure the oil is at 350°F before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pot. Drain thoroughly on a wire rack after frying.

Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes, substitute plant-based milk for whole milk in both the batter and glaze.

How do I get the perfect glaze consistency?

Start with 3 tablespoons of milk and adjust by adding more, one teaspoon at a time, until the glaze is thin enough to pour but still coats the fritters.

Why are my fritters doughy inside?

If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too fast before the inside is done. Keep the oil steady at 350°F and fry in small batches.

What other fruit can I use?

Pears, peaches, or even blueberries can be used in place of apples for different flavor variations.

Conclusion

These easy apple fritters are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a homemade breakfast or dessert with minimal effort. With crispy edges, tender centers, and a sweet vanilla glaze, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the fryer or reheated the next day, these fritters are guaranteed to delight.