There’s just something magical about the smell of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen—and if that cozy aroma is wrapped in a crackly-sweet glaze and golden, crispy exterior? Count me in. These Apple Fritters are everything you want in a treat: crunchy on the outside, soft and tender inside, studded with juicy chunks of apple, and kissed with a vanilla glaze that drips into all the little nooks and crannies.
Apple Fritters are a fall favorite, but let’s be real—when something tastes this good, it deserves a spot in your year-round recipe rotation. Make sure to subscribe to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox, so you’ll never miss a batch of fritter joy!
What Are Apple Fritters?
Apple fritters are a type of deep-fried pastry, usually made by folding chopped apples into a lightly sweetened batter, dropping it by spoonfuls into hot oil, and frying until golden. Once out of the fryer, they’re glazed while warm, soaking up a vanilla icing that gives them that signature sticky-sweet finish.
They fall somewhere between a doughnut and a pancake—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and studded with fruity, cinnamon-spiced goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Fritter Recipe
Crispy edges + fluffy interior: The perfect contrast of textures.
Loaded with real apple chunks: Fresh fruit in every bite!
No yeast needed: That’s right—this is a quick batter-based fritter, ready in under 30 minutes.
Old-fashioned charm: This recipe tastes like something your grandma would’ve made—and probably did!
Versatile & forgiving: Add-ins, swaps, and tweaks welcome.
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! Whether you’re craving a cozy fall breakfast, a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or a brunch showstopper, these fritters are anything but boring!!
What Do Apple Fritters Taste Like?
Imagine the flavor of warm apple pie, wrapped in a crunchy doughnut shell, and drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze. The apple pieces get soft and tender as they cook, while the cinnamon-scented batter crisps up around them. That combination of hot fruit and golden crunch? Utter perfection.
The glaze adds a final sweet kick, soaking just enough into the fritter to make each bite heavenly.
Benefits of Making Apple Fritters at Home
No mysterious drive-thru ingredients: You control what goes in!
Freshness factor: Nothing beats a just-fried fritter.
Customizable: Add nuts, use different fruits, go wild.
Budget-friendly: Pantry staples + apples = dessert magic.
Fun to make with kids: Messy, crispy, and satisfying!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
2/3 cup whole milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium, peeled and diced)
Vegetable oil for frying
For the glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowls
Whisk
Slotted spoon or spider strainer
Deep frying thermometer (optional but helpful!)
Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
Wire rack + paper towels for draining
Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ins
Substitutions:
Apples: Use pears or firm peaches if apples are out of season.
Milk: Any dairy or plant-based milk works (almond, oat, etc.).
Butter: Swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Add-ins:
Chopped pecans or walnuts: Add crunch and richness.
A splash of bourbon or rum: For grown-up flavor depth.
Orange or lemon zest: Adds brightness and zing.
How to Make Apple Fritters
Step 1: Prep the apples
Peel, core, and dice your apples into small chunks (about 1/4 inch pieces). You want them small enough to soften during frying but still hold their shape.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, and melted butter until smooth.
Step 4: Make the batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
Step 5: Heat the oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2–3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Step 6: Fry the fritters
Carefully drop 1/4-cup scoops of batter into the hot oil (don’t overcrowd). Fry 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
Step 7: Make the glaze
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 8: Glaze the fritters
While fritters are still warm, dip them into the glaze or spoon it over the tops. Place on a wire rack to let the glaze set (if you can wait that long!).
What to Serve with Apple Fritters
Hot coffee or chai tea: That cozy combo can’t be beat.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream: For dessert vibes.
Cider or mulled wine: Especially during the holidays!
Bacon or sausage: Sweet + salty = happy brunch.
Tips for Perfect Apple Fritters
Don’t overmix the batter—lumps are okay!
Use a thermometer to keep the oil steady at 350°F.
Drain on paper towels then transfer to a wire rack to keep crispy.
Glaze while warm for best absorption.
Eat the same day for ultimate crunch, but they’re still delicious later!
How to Store Apple Fritters
Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving—they’ll go soggy!
You can also freeze unglazed fritters for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven and glaze after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Technically yes, but you’ll miss out on the signature crispiness. Bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, and brush with melted butter before glazing.
What apples work best?
Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith hold up well, but I also love Honeycrisp or Braeburn for sweetness and flavor.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Not recommended. The baking powder will lose its punch if the batter sits too long. Chop your apples in advance, but mix the batter right before frying.
Are these gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results may vary slightly in texture.
How many fritters does this make?
About 10–12 medium fritters, depending on size.
Wrapping It Up
There’s just something irresistible about a homemade Apple Fritter. The warm apples, cinnamon-spiced batter, golden crust, and sweet vanilla glaze come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re serving these for a Sunday brunch, a holiday dessert table, or a cozy weekday treat, they bring serious comfort food vibes.
And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! If you’ve never tried homemade fritters before, this is your sign.
If you loved these, you’ll definitely want to check out my Peach Cobbler Muffins, Peach Crumble Bars, or even my Cinnamon-Sugar Peach Hand Pies!
Join the Fun!
Tried this recipe? I’d love to see it! Leave a review below, tag your photos with #mmmrecipes on Pinterest, or pin this for later. Let’s spread the fritter love!
Nutritional Information (Per Fritter, approx.)
Calories: 210
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and frying oil.)
Ready to fry up a batch of sweet, crispy, glazed deliciousness? Let’s do this 🍎