These Cinnamon Apple Fritters are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and packed with tender apple chunks and warm cinnamon flavor. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they are the perfect fall treat—though delicious enough to enjoy year-round!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
✔ Crispy & Fluffy – Golden-brown crunch with a soft, pillowy interior.
✔ Packed with Apples – Fresh, juicy apple chunks in every bite.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack!
Ingredients
For the Apple Fritters:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 ½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, beat the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
- In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the correct temperature for even frying.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
- Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over warm fritters or dip them for extra sweetness.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Apple Choice: Granny Smith apples add a nice tart contrast, while Honeycrisp or Fuji bring extra sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Too hot, and the fritters burn outside while staying raw inside. Too cool, and they absorb excess oil.
- No Deep Fryer? You can pan-fry with less oil, flipping to cook evenly.
Variations
✅ Baked Apple Fritters – Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, then brush with glaze.
✅ Apple Cider Fritters – Swap milk for apple cider for extra fall flavor.
✅ Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
✅ Maple Glaze – Substitute maple syrup for milk in the glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These in Advance?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Can I Freeze Apple Fritters?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
Can I Use Other Fruits?
Yes! Try bananas, peaches, or pears for a twist on the classic recipe.
These Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze are the perfect combination of warm, spiced apples and crispy, golden-brown batter. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, they’ll disappear fast! Try them today and enjoy every bite. 🍏✨
