I absolutely adore the warm, sweet comfort of apple fritters. There’s something special about apples combined with a sweet pastry that just makes any day better. Today, I’m excited to share two amazing apple fritter ideas that you can make at home.
Whether you prefer a baked version or a fun, waffle-shaped treat, I think you’ll find these apple recipes simple and so delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
Sweet Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic apple fritter in a fun, waffle-iron shape. They are perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Apple Waffle Donuts
- Granny Smith Apples: I find these work best because their tartness balances the sweetness of the batter and glaze. They also hold their shape well when cooked.
- Waffle Iron Prep: Make sure your waffle iron is well-greased and hot before adding the batter to prevent sticking and ensure a crispy outside.
- Cinnamon Sugar Glaze: A simple powdered sugar glaze with a hint of cinnamon makes these taste extra special. Dip them while warm for the best coating.
What You Need for Apple Fritter Waffles
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely diced Granny Smith apples
- For the Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6-8 waffle donuts
How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. This ensures all the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the diced apples. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine.
Step 3: Cook and Glaze
Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour about ½ cup of batter per waffle section, depending on your waffle iron size. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, usually 3-5 minutes. While the waffles are cooking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon for the glaze. Dip the warm waffle donuts into the glaze, letting any extra drip off, then serve immediately.
📝 Final Note for Apple Waffles
These waffle donuts are best eaten fresh. If you have any leftovers, you can gently reheat them in a toaster or air fryer to bring back some crispness.
Simple Baked Apple Fritters With Glaze
If you prefer to bake instead of fry, these Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze are for you! They have all the wonderful flavors of traditional apple fritters but are made in the oven, making them a little lighter.
Key Ingredients & Baking Tips for Apple Fritters
- Apple Variety: I like using a mix of sweet (like Fuji) and tart (like Honeycrisp) apples for a more balanced taste in these baked fritters.
- Baking Sheet Lining: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents the fritters from sticking.
- Cooling Before Glaze: Let the fritters cool for a few minutes before adding the glaze. If they are too hot, the glaze will melt right off.
What You Need for Baked Apple Fritters
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- For the Glaze: 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
⏱️ Time: 40 minutes🍽️ Yields: 10-12 fritters
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Prepare Batter
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a big bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples gently.
Step 2: Bake the Fritters
Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each fritter. You can make them as rustic or uniform as you like. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Glaze and Serve
While the fritters cool slightly, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the fritters are warm (not hot), dip or drizzle them with the glaze. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving these delicious baked treats.
📝 Final Note for Baked Fritters
For a crispier edge, you can lightly brush the fritters with a little melted butter before baking. Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
