These apple fritters are fluffy, sweet pieces of heaven! Packed with juicy apple chunks and coated in a light sugar glaze, they make a perfect treat for any time of day.
They’re so easy to whip up, you might start wondering if you can keep them a secret. Spoiler alert: You probably won’t want to share! 🍏✨
I love enjoying these warm with a cup of coffee. It’s like a little cozy hug in every bite. You’ll find it hard to stop at just one! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the main base for your fritters. If gluten-free is your goal, you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Granulated Sugar: The sugar adds sweetness to the batter. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia in the same quantity.
Apples: Fresh apples are essential for flavor and moisture. I like using Granny Smith for tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji add extra sweetness. You can substitute with pears if you’re out of apples!
Cinnamon: This spice gives a warm, cozy flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could skip it or try nutmeg instead for a different twist.
How Do I Get My Fritters to Fry Perfectly?
Frying can be tricky, but with these steps, your fritters will come out just right! The key is maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F. You can use a thermometer to check or test a small drop of batter; it should sizzle right away!
- Using a deep skillet allows for even frying. Pour in enough oil so it’s about 2 inches deep.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding might drop the temperature of the oil, resulting in soggy fritters.
- Turn them gently while frying to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. They should be golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels to avoid excess oil. Don’t wait too long to glaze – warm fritters hold the glaze better!

How to Make Apple Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious apple fritters recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll whip up the batter, fry the fritters, and make the glaze—perfect for a quick treat any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until everything is well combined. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy! Gently fold in the chopped apples so they’re evenly mixed in.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key for getting those fritters perfectly crispy!
3. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop portions of the batter into the hot oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—this will help them cook evenly. Fry each fritter for about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
4. Drain and Glaze:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters and let them drain on paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create your glaze. Adjust the milk to get the consistency you like best!
5. Serve & Enjoy:
While the fritters are still warm, drizzle or dip them into the glaze. Let the glaze set for just a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy the crispy, sweet goodness of your homemade apple fritters!
These apple fritters are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with sweet apple pieces, finished with a shiny, sweet glaze. They’re perfect for a cozy treat any time of the year! 🍏✨
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, you can use any variety you like, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a mix. Just make sure they’re firm and fresh for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
To store leftover apple fritters, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze Apple Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze apple fritters! Just ensure they are completely cooled beforehand. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, reheat from frozen in the oven!
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you need to make this recipe egg-free, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or mashed banana. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the fritters moist and delicious!
