Apple fritters are the ultimate treat—golden brown, crispy on the outside, and filled with tender, juicy apple pieces inside. Coated in a light dusting of powdered sugar, these little bites of heaven are the perfect balance of sweet and spiced flavors. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a special dessert, these homemade apple fritters are sure to impress.
The combination of cinnamon and apples gives these fritters a comforting, autumn-like feel, but they’re just as delicious any time of year. The batter comes together in minutes, using simple pantry ingredients, and frying them creates a beautifully crispy texture with a soft, pillowy center. Best of all, they don’t require yeast, so there’s no need for long rising times—just mix, fry, and enjoy!
One of the best things about making apple fritters at home is that they taste infinitely better than store-bought versions. Freshly fried and still warm, these fritters have an unbeatable flavor and texture. They’re easy to customize, too—try adding a glaze, swapping in different spices, or even tossing in some nuts for extra crunch.
Pair them with a cup of coffee, hot cider, or tea for a comforting treat that everyone will love. Serve them warm, fresh from the fryer, for the best experience!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6-8 fritters
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 large apple, peeled and diced
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add the Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s good to go.
- Fry the Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning them occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain & Dust: Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
- Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy these apple fritters warm, fresh from the fryer, for the best flavor and texture!
Variations
- Glazed Apple Fritters: Instead of powdered sugar, drizzle with a simple glaze made from 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract.
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for extra warmth.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Baked Option: If you prefer to bake them, scoop the batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar.
Tips
- Use a firm apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Keep the oil at a consistent temperature to ensure even frying and prevent greasy fritters.
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.
- For extra crispiness, let the fritters rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying.
These homemade apple fritters are quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a sweet glaze, they make the perfect indulgent treat. Try them today and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples in every bite!
