Homemade Glazed Apple Fritters with Cinnamon and Spice

Olivia Patel
Olivia Patel
Published: May 21, 2026
Tags: Dessert, Breakfast, Comfort Food, Apples, Fall Recipes

Apple Fritters

Golden, crispy fritters packed with tart apples and a sweet vanilla glaze. A classic bakery treat made easy.

Prep Time:15 minCook Time:15 minTotal Time:30 minServings:8Difficulty:Medium

There is something truly magical about the aroma of fresh apple fritters wafting through the kitchen on a crisp morning. These aren't just your standard donuts; they are craggy, golden morsels of joy, bursting with chunks of tart apple and warm cinnamon. The contrast between the crunchy, fried exterior and the soft, cake-like center is what makes them an absolute staple in any baker's repertoire, bringing that cozy bakery feeling right into your own home.

The secret to a perfect fritter lies in the balance of texture and sweetness. I love using Granny Smith apples because their sharp acidity cuts right through the rich dough, while a simple vanilla glaze seeps into every nook and cranny of the uneven surface. Whether you are serving these for a weekend brunch or as a special dessert, they are best enjoyed while still slightly warm, ideally with a steaming cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories:310 kcal
Protein:4 g
Carbs:48 g
Fat:12 g

Directions

  1. 1
    Dry fritter ingredients whisked with cinnamon and nutmeg in a mixing bowl.

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

  2. 2
    Milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter whisked into a smooth wet mixture.

    In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.

  3. 3
    Chopped apples folded into thick cinnamon fritter batter with a spatula.

    Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.

  4. 4
    Frying oil heating in a heavy pan with a thermometer near 350°F.

    Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F.

  5. 5
    Apple fritter batter portions dropped into hot oil and gently flattened.

    Carefully drop 1/4 cup portions of the batter into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon to ensure even cooking.

  6. 6
    Apple fritters frying until deep golden brown with crisp craggy edges.

    Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are a deep golden brown. Work in batches to avoid crowding the pan.

  7. 7
    Freshly fried apple fritters draining on a paper towel-lined plate.

    Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

  8. 8
    Powdered sugar glaze whisked smooth with milk and vanilla in a shallow bowl.

    To make the glaze, whisk the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a splash of vanilla in a shallow bowl until smooth.

  9. 9
    Warm apple fritter dipped in glaze before setting on a wire rack.

    While the fritters are still warm, dunk each side into the glaze and place on a wire rack to set.

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour:1 1/2 cups
  • Granulated sugar:1/4 cup
  • Baking powder:2 tsp
  • Ground cinnamon:1 1/2 tsp
  • Ground nutmeg:1/4 tsp
  • Salt:1/2 tsp
  • Whole milk:1/3 cup
  • Egg:1 large
  • Unsalted butter, melted:2 tbsp
  • Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped:2 cups
  • Powdered sugar:1 1/2 cups
  • Vanilla extract:1 tsp
  • Vegetable oil for frying:2 cups

Tips & Notes

  • Use a kitchen thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F; if it's too hot, the outside burns before the inside is cooked.
  • Don't chop the apples too small—you want distinct chunks of fruit for the best texture.
  • If the glaze is too thick, add milk half a teaspoon at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency.