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Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe

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Introduction If you love warm, cinnamon-scented desserts, you’re in for a treat with this Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe. These tender, apple-packed fritters have all the flavor of a classic fairground favorite — but without the deep frying! Each

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By Manager Blogmerce

Updated on October 9, 2025

Introduction

If you love warm, cinnamon-scented desserts, you’re in for a treat with this Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze Recipe. These tender, apple-packed fritters have all the flavor of a classic fairground favorite — but without the deep frying! Each bite bursts with juicy apple chunks, cozy spices, and a light, sweet glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. Here at Bake Warely, we’re all about turning traditional comfort treats into simple, oven-friendly bakes you can make anytime at home.

My Recipe Story

This recipe was born from a chilly autumn afternoon when I craved the warm sweetness of apple fritters but wanted to skip the mess of frying. I had fresh Granny Smith apples and a craving for something comforting yet light. So, I reimagined the classic — baked instead of fried, and finished with a bright lemon glaze for balance. What came out of the oven was a revelation: golden fritters with crisp edges, soft apple bits, and a glaze that shimmered like morning dew.

💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No frying required — baked to golden perfection for a lighter dessert.
Loaded with real apple chunks and warm cinnamon flavor.
Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect balance of sweetness and tang with the lemon glaze.
Great for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with coffee.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what makes these Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze so irresistible:

Apples: Granny Smiths bring tartness, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness — use your favorite mix.
All-purpose flour: The base that keeps fritters light and structured.
Baking powder: Ensures puffiness and that bakery-style rise.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Add warmth and depth to every bite.
Milk, egg, and vanilla: Bind everything and enhance richness.
Powdered sugar & lemon juice: The glaze that provides shine and zesty sweetness.

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Whisk or electric mixer
Sheet pan lined with parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel, core, and dice two medium apples into small chunks — about ½-inch pieces. Toss them lightly with a sprinkle of cinnamon if you want extra flavor. The key here is consistency; even-sized apple pieces ensure uniform baking and moisture in every fritter.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, whisking just until smooth. Fold in the diced apples gently to avoid overmixing — the batter should be thick but spoonable.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Each fritter should look rustic, not perfect — that’s part of the charm! Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell heavenly with notes of apple and cinnamon wafting through the air.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

While the fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a teaspoon of water. Adjust the water amount to reach your preferred consistency — thin for a light drizzle or thicker for a luscious coating. The lemon adds brightness that perfectly balances the sweet fritter base.

Step 5: Glaze and Enjoy

Transfer the warm fritters onto a wire rack placed over parchment paper. Drizzle or brush the glaze generously over the top while still slightly warm, letting it set for a few minutes before serving. Each fritter will have a glossy, delicious finish that makes them irresistible for breakfast or dessert.

Variations & Substitutions

Try pears instead of apples for a softer, floral version.
Use almond extract for a nutty twist.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier bite.
Drizzle with maple glaze instead of lemon for fall vibes.

💡 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Don’t overmix: Too much stirring makes the fritters dense instead of fluffy.
Use firm apples: They hold up better during baking and give texture.
Bake on the middle rack: For even browning and consistent heat.
Cool slightly before glazing: Too hot and the glaze will melt off completely.
Store airtight: Keeps the fritters moist for up to 2 days at room temperature.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container for 2–3 days at room temperature. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes to restore that warm, soft texture. You can also freeze them unglazed for up to 2 months — simply thaw and glaze before serving. These make-ahead fritters are perfect for holiday brunches or lazy weekend mornings.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Pair your Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy morning treat. For dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with caramel sauce. You can even serve them alongside Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for a delightful fall dessert platter. For more baking inspiration, explore tips and techniques from King Arthur Baking.

FAQ

Can I use other apples besides Granny Smith?

Yes! Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples work wonderfully. Each brings its own level of sweetness and texture.

Why are my fritters dense?

Overmixing the batter can develop gluten, making them dense. Mix until just combined for light, fluffy fritters.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store the glaze in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Whisk before using to smooth it out again.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute with milk or orange juice for a milder flavor, but lemon provides the best balance against the sweetness.

Can I air fry these instead of baking?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispier texture and quicker cook time.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze deliver everything you love about the classic treat — crispy edges, tender apple bites, and a sweet drizzle — but with less oil and more ease. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated the next day, they bring comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Try them once, and they’ll become your go-to fall bake for years to come!