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Apple Fritters
Apple fritters are a crispy and sweet treat made with fresh Granny Smith apples and a simple batter, perfect for breakfast or a snack. This easy recipe comes together quickly and offers a delightful homemade option that everyone will love.
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Table of Contents
- Apple Fritters Ingredients
- Apple Fritter Donut Substitutions And Additions
- How To Make Apple Fritters
- Recipe for Apple Fritters Troubleshooting Tips
- How To Serve Homemade Apple Fritter Donuts
- How to Store Apple Fritters
- Why This Easy Homemade Apple Fritters Recipe is the Best
- Apple Fritters Frequently Asked Questions
- More Apple Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
- JUMP TO RECIPE
Apple fritters are a classic comfort food, and this recipe takes them to the next level. What makes these apple fritters exceptional is the use of tart, crisp apples paired with a batter that fries up light and golden. The result is a fritter that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with apple flavor. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making these a must-try for any apple lover.
If you’ve ever bitten into an apple fritter at a local fair and thought, ‘I wish I could make this at home,’ this recipe is for you because it’s all about recreating that irresistible, fresh-off-the-griddle taste. Packed with fresh Granny Smith apples and a light, airy batter, these fritters have the perfect crispy exterior, juicy apple filling, and a sweet glaze that beats any store-bought version. Plus, they’re easy to make in your own kitchen, no special equipment required.
Apple Fritters Ingredients
This old-fashioned apple fritters recipe is a family favorite. They’re perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack with the perfect balance of crispy, golden brown outside and tender, sweet apples inside and a simple glaze drizzled on top.
You’ll need:
For the Fritters:
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced into ¼-½ inch pieces
- Canola oil for frying
OUR RECIPE DEVELOPER SAYS
You will need two to three large apples for this recipe. Make sure to cut your apples into uniform pieces of the same size so they cook evenly.
For the Glaze:
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon melted, and cooled unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5-6 tablespoons whole milk
Apple Fritter Donut Substitutions And Additions
Granulated Sugar: Use an equal amount of brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Granny Smith Apples: Use Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apples for a sweeter fritter. For a more tart option, use Bramley apples.
Canola Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or sunflower oil if needed. These oils also have a high smoke point and will work well for frying.
Ground Cinnamon: Swap with ground nutmeg or a pumpkin spice mix for a different spice profile.
How To Make Apple Fritters
This straightforward recipe ensures a delightful treat with each bite of your fried apple fritters. Follow along with our step-by-step instructions, helpful photos, and pro tips.
STEP ONE: Before you begin mixing your ingredients, set up your frying station.
Heat the canola oil in an electric fryer or a heavy-duty pot to 375°F. To keep things tidy, line a large-rimmed baking tray with paper towels or place a wire rack on top. This setup will be crucial for draining excess oil and cooling the fritters after frying.
PRO TIP:
If using a pot, attach a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature continuously, adjusting the stove’s heat to maintain a steady 375°F.
STEP TWO: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
STEP THREE: In a separate small bowl, whisk the whole milk, room-temperature egg, and unsweetened applesauce until smooth. This mixture will be the binding agent for your dry ingredients, creating the batter’s base.
STEP FOUR: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to stir everything together just until combined.
Avoid over-mixing to keep the batter light and prevent the fritters from becoming tough. The final batter should resemble thick pancake batter.
STEP FIVE: Gently fold the diced apple chunks into the batter, distributing them evenly.
STEP SIX: Once the oil has reached the right temperature, carefully spoon a third cup of batter per fritter into the oil. Flatten them slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
Fry each batch for about two to three minutes, turning once, until they are golden brown and crispy.
PRO TIP:
Do not overcrowd the fryer or pot; this can lower the oil’s temperature and lead to soggy fritters.
STEP SEVEN: Use a slotted spoon or metal spider to transfer the fried fritters onto the prepared baking tray. Let them cool slightly.
This step is crucial as it allows the oil to drain off, preventing the fritters from becoming greasy.
STEP EIGHT: While the fritters are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and five tablespoons of whole milk.
Adjust the consistency with more milk if necessary. The glaze should be smooth and fluid, similar to warm maple syrup.
STEP NINE: Dip each fritter into the glaze, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Set the fritters back on the wire rack to let the glaze set.
This step not only adds a sweet finish but also locks in moisture, enhancing the fritters’ flavor.
STEP TEN: Once the glaze has set, the apple fritters are ready to be served. Arrange them on a platter and enjoy them while they’re fresh and crisp!
Recipe for Apple Fritters Troubleshooting Tips
If you follow the steps of this recipe carefully, you should end up with golden brown, homemade apple fritters ready to bite into!
But if you’ve had any trouble along the way, here are some additional tips and recipe notes from our recipe testing team:
My apple fritters are soggy.
Fritters can become soggy if the oil temperature is too low or the batter is too wet, absorbing excess oil during frying.
Solution:
- Make sure your oil is heated to the correct temperature of 375°F. Use a candy thermometer to monitor this.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature.
- Pat the apples dry before mixing them into the batter to reduce excess moisture.
My fritters are falling apart.
The fritters might disintegrate in the oil, leading to a mess instead of a cohesive fritter.
Solution:
- Make sure your batter is thick enough to hold the apple pieces together. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour.
- Mix the batter gently so that it clings to the apples and doesn’t separate when frying.
- Don’t flip the fritters too early. Let them form a solid crust before turning them over.
The centers of my apple fritters are raw.
The outside of the fritters is golden and crispy, but the inside is still raw.
Solution:
- After frying, if they’re still undercooked, you can finish cooking them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
- Fry the fritters at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains underdone.
- Make smaller fritters to ensure even cooking.
My fritters are sticking to each other.
Solution:
- Don’t drop the fritters too close to each other in the pan. Give them space so they don’t touch as they expand.
- If they do stick, gently separate them with a spatula before they set.
How To Serve Homemade Apple Fritter Donuts
Whether you’re enjoying this easy apple fritters recipe fresh out of the fryer or incorporating them into a larger meal, these treats offer a range of serving options that can cater to any occasion.
Classic Presentation: Serve the apple fritters on a platter lined with parchment paper. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Breakfast Delight: Pair your fritters with a side of eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast. The savory elements complement the sweet fritters perfectly.
Dessert Option: Warm up the fritters and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk. The combination of hot and cold, along with the contrasting textures, makes for a delightful treat.
Brunch Spread: Include apple fritters in a brunch spread with fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola. They add a sweet element to the mix and go well with a variety of brunch foods.
Family Gatherings: For family gatherings, serve the fritters with a pot of coffee or a selection of teas. They make a great centerpiece for any breakfast or dessert table.
Holiday Treat: Incorporate the fritters into your holiday menu. Serve them alongside other festive treats like cinnamon rolls, fruitcake, and holiday cookies. They’re perfect for Christmas Eve or Thanksgiving morning.
MORE APPLE RECIPES
How to Store Apple Fritters
Proper storage of your apple fritters will help maintain their freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy them even after the day they are made. Follow these tips to store your fritters effectively.
MAKE AHEAD: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows you to fry the fritters fresh when you are ready to serve them, ensuring they are crisp and delicious.
IN THE FRIDGE: Once the apple fritters are cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days.
When you are ready to eat them, follow the reheating instructions below to restore their warmth and crispiness.
IN THE FREEZER: For longer storage, you can freeze the fritters. Place the cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before following the reheating instructions.
REHEATING: To reheat the fritters, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the fritters on a baking sheet. Heat for five to seven minutes until they are warmed through and crispy.
You can also reheat them in the microwave by heating on high for 20-30 seconds, but note that they may not retain their crispiness. For the best texture, the oven method is recommended.
Why This Easy Homemade Apple Fritters Recipe is the Best
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
Classic Comfort: Combining sweet apples and cinnamon brings a nostalgic comfort.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert – they fit any occasion.
Crispy and Delicious: The fritters’ crispy exterior and soft interior, drizzled with a sweet glaze, make them irresistible.
Apple Fritters Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes. This delicious apple fritter recipe is versatile enough to handle just about any apple you’d like. If you’ve recently been apple picking at your local orchard, you can use what you picked! Pink Lady or Honeycrisp apples are great options if you prefer a sweeter taste.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
Use a candy thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 375°F for perfect frying.
My fritters are sticking to the frying basket. What should I do?
Lower the basket into the oil before adding the batter to prevent sticking.
How thick should the batter be?
The batter should resemble thick pancake batter.
How do I keep the fritters from being too greasy?
Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature and avoid overcrowding the pot. Make sure you drain them on a cooling rack for the best texture.
What is the best way to glaze the fritters?
Dip each fritter into the glaze while they are still slightly warm for the best coverage.
Can I use a different oil for frying?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or sunflower oil as alternatives.
Why are my fritters turning out tough?
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
How do I know when the fritters are done frying?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, usually taking two to three minutes per side.
This recipe for apple fritters is a perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender apple-filled interior, making it a delightful treat for any time of day. Skip the doughnut shop and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade fritters that are easy to make at home!
More Apple Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Apple Fritters
Apple fritters are a crispy and sweet treat made with fresh Granny Smith apples and a simple batter, perfect for breakfast or a snack. This easy recipe comes together quickly and offers a delightful homemade option that everyone will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 12
Ingredients
For the Apple Fritters
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg room temperature
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 cups granny smith apples peeled, cored and diced into ¼-½ inch pieces (from 2 large apples)
- Canola oil for frying
For the Glaze
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tablespoon butter melted and cooled unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5-6 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions
- Heat the canola oil in an electric fryer or heavy-duty pot to 375*F. Line a large-rimmed baking tray with paper towels and a wire rack. Set aside.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon and salt in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl whisk together the whole milk, large egg, and unsweetened applesauce.
- Add the wet ingredients to the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir together with a rubber spatula just until combined and no lumps remain. The batter should resemble thick pancake batter.
- Fold the diced apples into the batter just until evenly distributed.
- Once the oil is hot, gently add ⅓ cup batter and spread it out to a slightly flatter shape. This will help the apple fritters fry up evenly and not in the shape of a round dough ball. Repeat with 2-3 more additions of batter. Do not overcrowd the oil. The apple fritters need to have space to move and fry evenly. Cook for 1-1 ½ minutes. Gently flip the apple fritters over to the second side and cook for another 1 – 1 ½ minutes or until the apple fritters are dark golden brown.
- Using a large slotted spoon, or metal spider, remove the apple fritters from the hot oil and place them onto the prepared baking tray. Allow the apple fritters to cool slightly before dipping them into the glaze. Repeat until all the apple fritters have been fried.
- To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted and cooled butter, vanilla extract and 5 tablespoons whole milk until the glaze is smooth. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon whole milk if needed to get the glaze to a consistency of warm maple syrup.
- Dip each fried apple fritter into the glaze, covering both sides, then place each fritter back onto the wire rack to allow the glaze to set and harden.
- Once the glaze has set the apple fritters can be plated, in a single layer, and served.
Notes
- Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 375°F. If the temperature drops too low, the fritters will absorb more oil and become greasy. If it’s too high, they might burn on the outside while remaining uncooked inside.
- Uniform Apple Pieces: Dice the fresh apples into uniform ¼-½ inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly within the fritter batter.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs to help the batter mix more smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
- Do Not Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which can make the fritters tough.
- Carefully Use Your Fryer Basket: If you’re using an electric fryer or a pot with a basket, be sure to remove or fully lower the basket before you add the apple fritter batter.
- Serve Right Away: These fritters are best served warm and fresh.
Nutrition
Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.05g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 164mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 103IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 1mg
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Comments
Gloria says
These are so delicious and decadent!
Billy M Vo says
yum yummmmm