I can almost smell the cinnamon and apples, can’t you? I have such warm memories of my mom making apple fritters on Sunday mornings, filling our kitchen with the most amazing aroma. Now, I’m so excited to share my own version of this classic treat with you. This apple fritters recipe is simple, quick, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. And the best part? It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s get started!
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritters
This recipe for apple fritters is truly special. I know you’ll absolutely love how easy and delicious they are.
- Quick & Easy to Make: These fritters come together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or a last-minute dessert.
- Classic Taste: They deliver that warm, comforting apple-cinnamon flavor that everyone adores.
- Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert: Enjoy them with your morning coffee or as a sweet ending to any meal.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will devour these crispy, sweet treats.
What ARE Apple Fritters Anyway? (Doughnut or Pastry?)
That’s a great question! Are apple fritters a doughnut or a pastry? Well, they’re kind of both. Apple fritters share similarities with doughnuts because they’re fried and often glazed. However, they lean more towards pastry due to their irregular shape and the chunks of fruit mixed within the batter. The key ingredients include flour, sugar, cinnamon, and, of course, apples, which give them a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from your average doughnut.
Which Apples are Best for Apple Fritters?
For this recipe, I recommend using either Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. I love these varieties because their tartness balances perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze. Plus, they hold their shape well during frying, ensuring you get those delicious chunks of apple in every bite. You can certainly experiment with other types of apples, but these are my go-to choices for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients for the Best Apple Fritters
Here’s what you’ll need to make my apple fritters. Be sure to double-check your measurements!
- 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons applesauce
- 2 large Granny Smith apples or Honey Crisp apples peeled (cored and diced)
- canola oil or vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Apple Fritters: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfect apple fritters in no time. I included pictures to show you what it looks like at each step.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in medium bowl. Make a well in the center and add 1/3 cup milk, eggs and applesauce. Stir just to combine. Fold in apples.
- Heat 1 1/2 inches of oil in heavy skillet, dutch oven or deep fryer to 375 degrees. Drop about 1/4 cup of batter per fritter into hot oil; spreading it out as you drop. Cook each side until golden brown; approximately 2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove to paper towels to drain.
- Whisk together 1/4 cup milk, powdered sugar and vanilla. Dunk each fritters in the glaze turning over to make sure both sides coated. Place on wire racks to air dry and drip.
Clara’s Recipe Notes & Helpful Tips for Perfect Apple Fritters
I always say, a good recipe is just the beginning! Here are a few of my tried-and-true tips to make sure your apple fritters turn out perfectly every time. First, make sure your oil temperature is consistent. If the oil is too hot, the fritters will brown too quickly on the outside and remain raw inside. If it’s not hot enough, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying too many fritters at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy fritters. Be patient and fry them in batches. I prefer using a Dutch oven because it maintains a consistent temperature, but a heavy skillet or deep fryer works just as well. I also suggest that you avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can make the fritters tough. Mix until just combined, then gently fold in the apples. If you follow these tips, I know your apple fritters will be amazing!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Sometimes, you might want to switch things up a bit or need to work with what you have on hand. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
| Ingredient | Substitution/Variation |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Gluten-Free Flour Blend |
| Sugar | Maple Syrup, Honey (adjust liquid accordingly) |
| Cinnamon | Nutmeg, Cardamom |
| Eggs | Vegan Egg Replacer |
| Milk | Plant-Based Milk (almond, soy, oat) |
How to Store Apple Fritters
To keep your leftover apple fritters as fresh as possible, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within 1-2 days. I will say, in my home, they are usually gone by the end of the day!
Can You Freeze Apple Fritters?
Yes, you can! To freeze apple fritters, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in a warm oven or air fryer until heated through.
Amazing Quick & Easy Apple Fritters Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in medium bowl. Make a well in the center and add 1/3 cup milk, eggs and applesauce. Stir just to combine. Fold in apples.
- Heat 1 1/2 inches of oil in heavy skillet, dutch oven or deep fryer to 375 degrees. Drop about 1/4 cup of batter per fritter into hot oil; spreading it out as you drop. Cook each side until golden brown; approximately 2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove to paper towels to drain.
- Whisk together 1/4 cup milk, powdered sugar and vanilla. Dunk each fritters in the glaze turning over to make sure both sides coated. Place on wire racks to air dry and drip.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make apple fritters in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C), lightly brush the fritters with oil, and air fry for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
How do I prevent the fritters from being greasy?
Maintain the correct oil temperature (375°F/190°C) and don’t overcrowd the pan. Also, make sure to drain the fritters on paper towels after frying.
What is the best oil for frying apple fritters?
Canola oil or vegetable oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points and neutral flavor.
Can the batter be made ahead of time?
It’s best to make the batter fresh for the best results. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients and the diced apples in advance and combine them just before frying.
How long do apple fritters last?
They’re best enjoyed fresh, but they can last for 1-2 days when stored properly at room temperature.
Are apple fritters bad for you?
Like any fried treat, apple fritters are high in sugar and fat, so they’re best enjoyed in moderation.
What is an apple fritter made of?
Apple fritters are made from a batter of flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, milk, eggs, and applesauce, with diced apples folded in. They are then fried and glazed for a sweet finish.
Are apple fritters better than donuts?
I think they are! But it really depends on your personal preference. Apple fritters offer a unique combination of fried dough and chunks of fruit.
More Apple Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving more apple goodness, here are a few other apple-based dishes I know you’ll enjoy:
- Classic Apple Pie: A timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Apple Crisp: An easy and comforting dessert with a crunchy topping.
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins: A delicious and portable breakfast treat.
- Caramel Apples: A fun and festive snack that’s great for parties.
- Apple Galette: A rustic and elegant dessert that’s easy to make.
Conclusion
I hope you have as much fun making these apple fritters as I do! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different apple varieties or add your own twist to the glaze. And most importantly, remember that cooking should be a joy, not a chore. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your results in the comments below. Feel free to ask any questions, share your photos, or let me know what other recipes you’d like to see. Happy cooking!
