There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a warm, golden-brown apple fritter.
Crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, with pockets of sweet cinnamon-spiced apples—it’s like a hug in pastry form.
Apple fritters are a classic treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or even as an indulgent snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a detailed, step-by-step recipe so you can recreate this bakery favorite right in your own kitchen.
Apple Fritter Recipe
Apple fritters are fried pastries made from a slightly sweet dough, folded with chunks of apples and a hint of cinnamon.
Once fried to perfection, they are glazed with a simple sugar glaze, which adds a glossy finish and an extra layer of sweetness.
The fritters are soft on the inside yet slightly crisp on the outside, creating a perfect contrast in textures.
Whether served fresh or slightly cooled, these fritters are irresistible.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For frying and glazing:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the apples:
Begin by peeling, coring, and dicing the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, toss the apple pieces with brown sugar and cinnamon, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the dough.
2. Make the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
3. Incorporate the apples:
Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apple pieces into the dough. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed without smashing them, as you want small pockets of sweet apple in each fritter.
4. Heat the oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or skillet until it is about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
5. Fry the fritters:
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop portions of dough carefully into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. Fry each fritter for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove fritters using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Prepare the glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk if it’s too thick, or more sugar if it’s too thin.
7. Glaze the fritters:
While the fritters are still slightly warm, drizzle or dip them into the glaze. Place them on a wire rack to allow excess glaze to drip off and set slightly. For extra indulgence, you can drizzle a second layer once the first has hardened.
Tips for Perfect Apple Fritters
- Apple choice: Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they hold their shape during frying.
- Oil temperature: Maintaining the correct frying temperature ensures a crisp exterior without an undercooked center. Use a thermometer if possible.
- Make ahead: Fritters are best eaten fresh, but you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Reheat gently in a warm oven to regain crispness.
Variations to Try
- Caramel Apple Fritters: Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top for a decadent dessert twist.
- Nutty Fritters: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for added crunch.
- Spiced Fritters: Add nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a more aromatic flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve apple fritters warm for the best taste and texture. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a spiced chai latte.
For breakfast, enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
They also make an impressive treat for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings.
Conclusion
Apple fritters are a delightful mix of soft dough, sweet spiced apples, and a sugary glaze, offering a treat that’s both comforting and indulgent.
With this detailed recipe, you can easily make them at home, impressing family and friends with your homemade bakery-style fritters.
Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, these apple fritters are sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite.