Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Imagine a bite full of warm cinnamon apples tucked inside a golden, fluffy fritter—without any deep frying mess! These Baked Apple Fritters are the ultimate cozy treat, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers craving classic comfort with a lighter twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

At the heart of these irresistible Baked Apple Fritters are just a handful of simple pantry staples. Each one plays a starring role—so let’s break down how they work together to create fritters that are tender, flavorful, and impossible to resist.

• Refrigerated Biscuits (1 tube, 8 count, flaky): The ultimate shortcut! Using store-bought dough guarantees pillowy, fluffy fritters with zero kneading required.
• Apple (1 cup, chopped): Crisp, tart apples add juicy bursts of flavor and keep the center moist. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp both work beautifully.
• Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): A sprinkle of sugar sweetens the apples and helps caramelize the exterior as the fritters bake.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): This classic spice infuses every bite with comforting warmth and delightful aroma.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): A drizzle on top assures golden, tender edges and that signature bakery-style taste.
• Confectioners’ Sugar (1¼ cups): The base for that dreamy, glossy vanilla glaze that blankets each fritter.
• Vanilla Extract (¼ teaspoon): Just a hint deepens the flavor, making the glaze anything but ordinary.
• Water (3–6 teaspoons): Adjusts the thickness of your glaze for the perfect drizzly finish.

Variations

The beauty of Baked Apple Fritters is how adaptable the recipe is! Mix up the fruit, switch in spice blends, or tweak the glaze—making it easy to satisfy every craving or dietary preference.

• Pear Perfection: Swap chopped apples for ripe pears for a subtle, floral twist—delicious in any season!
• Gluten-Free Fritters: Use a gluten-free refrigerated biscuit dough (if available) and double-check labels on all other ingredients.
• Maple Glaze: Replace water in the glaze with pure maple syrup for extra depth and a hint of caramel-like sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts into the dough for texture and a buttery bite.
• Spice It Up: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or even ginger to the apple filling for a spiced bakery flair.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather your apples, biscuit dough, and other essentials—having everything on hand makes the process feel like a breeze!

Step 2: Cut and Toss the Dough

Open your tube of refrigerated biscuits and cut each one into approximately 10 equal pieces. Place all the dough pieces in a large bowl, then add your chopped apples, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Gently toss everything together to distribute that sweet spice and fruit in every bite.

Step 3: Shape the Fritters

Using a ¼ cup measuring cup or scoop, portion the dough mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Press each mound down slightly to form a rustic round shape about 3 inches wide. This helps them bake evenly and gives you those signature bakery fritter edges.

Step 4: Drizzle and Bake

Drizzle the melted butter over each unbaked fritter—this step guarantees a golden brown, irresistibly tender crust. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 14–17 minutes, or until your fritters are puffed and the edges are kissed with a caramel hue.

Step 5: Glaze Time

While your kitchen smells amazing and the fritters finish baking, prepare your glaze. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and 3 teaspoons of water. Keep whisking, adding more water a teaspoon at a time, until you get a smooth, pourable consistency. Once your Baked Apple Fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle generously with the glaze and let it set for a few minutes before devouring.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters

Garnishes

For a bakery-style touch, dust your Baked Apple Fritters with an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a pinch more cinnamon just before serving. A small dollop of whipped cream or vanilla Greek yogurt on the side elevates the indulgence even further—perfect for impressing guests or making any day feel special.

Side Dishes

These fritters absolutely shine alongside a mug of hot coffee, a spiced chai latte, or apple cider for a cozy afternoon treat. If you’re serving them for brunch, pair with crispy bacon and creamy scrambled eggs for an over-the-top, diner-style spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dessert into a memorable moment by stacking a few fritters and threading them on decorative skewers for the ultimate brunch centerpiece. For fall parties, serve Baked Apple Fritters in paper cones or cupcake wrappers for effortless, hand-held snacking. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm fritters for a restaurant-worthy dessert that will have everyone swooning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Baked Apple Fritters fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed within the first day or so, while the glaze is at its glossiest and the centers are ultra-soft.

Freezing

Baked Apple Fritters freeze surprisingly well! Once completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash-freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet snack.

Reheating

Bring leftover fritters back to their just-baked glory by warming them for 10–15 seconds in the microwave or for a few minutes in a 300°F oven. If glazed, the icing may melt a bit, so feel free to add an extra drizzle for freshness!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the joyful, cinnamon-scented magic of these Baked Apple Fritters! Whether you share them with loved ones over coffee or treat yourself to one warm from the oven, this recipe is sure to become an instant favorite. Enjoy every sweet, nostalgia-filled bite—you deserve it!

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