Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both comforting and bursting with warm autumn flavors, this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is an absolute must-try. These fritters combine tender dough with juicy, cinnamon-kissed apples baked to golden perfection, then coated in a luscious homemade glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Unlike traditional deep-fried versions, these baked fritters are lighter yet still incredibly satisfying—making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe calls for surprisingly simple ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the yeast that gives the dough its delightful rise to the tart apples and warm spices that create that signature taste, every component is essential.

• Active dry or instant yeast (1 ½ Tablespoons / 14 g): Ensures your dough rises beautifully and becomes light and fluffy.
• Warm water (½ cup / 120 ml): Activates the yeast perfectly to kickstart fermentation.
• White granulated sugar (2 teaspoons + ¼ cup + ¼ cup + 1 Tablespoon): Sweetens the dough, apples, and glaze in balanced layers.
• Bread flour (2 cups / 250 g + 1 Tablespoon): Provides the dough with the right structure and chewiness; you can substitute all-purpose flour.
• Baking powder (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle lift and lightness to the batter.
• Mace (¼ teaspoon): Offers a warm, nutty spice; nutmeg works wonderfully as a substitute.
• Salt (1 teaspoon + ¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Shortening or lard (2 Tablespoons / 30 g): Creates tender, moist dough; vegetable oil can be used too.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and enriches the dough.
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (¼ teaspoon + ¼ teaspoon): Adds fragrant, sweet notes throughout the fritters and glaze.
• Medium tart apples (2): Peeled, cored, and chopped into ½-inch pieces—these bring juicy bursts of bright flavor.
• Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Keeps the apples fresh and adds a gentle tang.
• Cinnamon (4 teaspoons): Infuses the apples with that classic, warm spice everyone loves.
• Confectioners/icing sugar (2 cups / 280 g): The base for the smooth and sweet glaze.
• Light corn syrup or golden syrup (1 ½ teaspoons): Gives gloss and the perfect drizzle consistency to the glaze.
• Water (⅓ cup / 80 ml): Balances the glaze texture, making it easy to coat each fritter delicately.

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving the yeast with 2 teaspoons of sugar in warm water—aim for a temperature that’s cozy but not hot. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s foamy and alive, signaling that your yeast is ready to work its magic in creating a light, airy dough.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour, ¼ cup sugar, baking powder, mace, and salt. This blend forms the flavorful foundation for your dough, mixing essential leavening with aromatic spices to create delight in every bite.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Yeast

To the dry mixture, add the shortening, egg, vanilla extract, and the foamy yeast mixture. Stir gently until everything comes together into a sticky dough—it will feel a bit tacky but should hold form well.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 6 to 8 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic, adding extra flour if it feels too sticky. This step helps develop the gluten for that tender yet chewy texture that makes these fritters so irresistible.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and tuck it away in a warm spot. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size—this usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours and is key to getting soft, puffy fritters.

Step 6: Prepare the Apples

While the dough rises, toss your chopped tart apples with the sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This mix draws out some juices and sweetens the fruit, ensuring the apples are tender and flavorful inside every fritter.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to roughly ½-inch thickness. This even layer will be the perfect canvas for the luscious apple filling.

Step 8: Add Apple Filling

Spread the macerated apples evenly over the dough, then sprinkle cinnamon and a tablespoon of flour atop. The flour helps absorb moisture, preventing sogginess while cinnamon adds that mouthwatering warmth.

Step 9: Fold and Cut

Fold the dough over the apples, gently pressing the edges to seal in the filling. Then cut the dough into 12 equal pieces—each will become a full-bodied apple fritter bursting with sweet-tart flavor.

Step 10: Second Rise

Place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes; this extra puff makes the final product light and fluffy.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the fritters for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The smell filling your kitchen now will be absolutely heavenly.

Step 12: Prepare the Glaze

While the fritters bake, whisk together confectioners sugar, corn syrup, salt, vanilla, white sugar, and water until smooth. Adjust the glaze’s consistency by adding water or sugar as needed to get that perfect pour-over texture.

Step 13: Glaze and Serve

Once the fritters come out of the oven and are still warm, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. The sticky sweetness complements the spiced apples and tender dough beautifully, making each bite a true delight.

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon on top adds a lovely visual and extra flavor pop. For something extra special, try a tiny dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it transforms your fritters into an indulgent treat that feels decadent but never heavy.

Side Dishes

Pair your baked apple fritters with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy pairing perfect for fall mornings or sweet afternoon breaks. They also work wonderfully alongside creamy yogurt or a mild cheese plate if you want some contrast in textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these fritters in a rustic basket lined with a brightly colored kitchen towel for a charming breakfast presentation. Alternatively, layer them on a cake stand or platter for brunch with friends. You can also stack a couple with a drizzle of caramel sauce and chopped pecans for an elegant dessert version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their freshness and softness. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out—but they usually don’t last that long because they’re just that good!

Freezing

You can freeze baked apple fritters for up to three months. Wrap each fritter tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

For best results, warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the outside. Microwaving is quicker but may result in softer fritters without that delightful edge crispness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this Baked Apple Fritters Recipe?

Yes, while bread flour is recommended for its higher protein content that gives great structure, all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute. The texture will be slightly softer but still delicious.

What type of apples work best in this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn are ideal because they hold their shape well and provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the fritters. Using sweeter apples might make the filling too sugary.

Is it possible to make these fritters vegan?

You can make them vegan by substituting the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce, and replacing shortening or lard with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.

Why do the fritters need two rises?

The first rise develops the dough’s flavor and volume, while the second rise after shaping adds lightness and tenderness to the final baked fritters, ensuring they stay fluffy and soft.

Can I skip the glaze or use a different topping?

Absolutely! The glaze adds sweetness and a beautiful finish, but you can also dust with powdered sugar or serve with a drizzle of caramel or honey. Fresh whipped cream is another fantastic option.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe is a heartwarming way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple and spice without the heaviness of frying. Whether for a special weekend breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat, you’ll find these fritters bring a wonderful touch of homemade magic to your kitchen. Go ahead and try making them—you’re going to love every bite, and trust me, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite recipes to share with friends and family.

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