Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—Apple Fritters are the ultimate treat for fall or anytime you’re craving a sweet, fruity indulgence. Made with fresh apples, a cinnamon sugar twist, and a quick homemade batter, these golden fritters are fried to perfection and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for brunch, afternoon snacks, or cozy family gatherings.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy edges, soft center – the perfect texture combo!
- Uses basic pantry staples—no fancy ingredients.
- Naturally sweet thanks to fresh apples and a hint of cinnamon.
- A fun and fast treat that both kids and adults will adore.
What Are Apple Fritters?
Apple fritters are deep-fried pastries featuring slices or chunks of apples dipped in batter and fried until golden brown. Though popular at fairs and bakeries, fritters have a long-standing presence in home kitchens, especially across the U.S. Often served warm and topped with powdered sugar or a glaze, they’re a beloved form of comfort food with European roots—many believe the recipe was inspired by ancient Roman and medieval apple-based desserts.
Pro Tips for the Best Apple Fritters
- Choose the right apple: Firm and tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.
- Dry your apples before dipping to help the batter stick better.
- Don't overcrowd the pan while frying—give each fritter space to crisp up.
- Check oil temperature: Keep it around 350°F (175°C) for even browning.
- Optional twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract for a flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Apples Are Best for Fritters?
Tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the batter.
Can I Make Apple Fritters Without a Deep Fryer?
Absolutely! A heavy-bottomed pot or skillet with enough oil works just as well—just monitor the oil temperature with a thermometer.
Why Is My Batter Not Sticking to the Apples?
Make sure the apple slices are patted dry before dipping and dredged lightly in flour to help the batter adhere better.
Can I Bake Apple Fritters Instead of Frying?
You can, but they won’t have the same crisp texture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How Do I Keep Fritters from Getting Soggy?
Drain them on a wire rack (not paper towels) after frying to maintain their crispness. Serve immediately for best texture.
How to Store Apple Fritters
Let fritters cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to bring back some of the crispiness.
How to Freeze Apple Fritters
Freeze cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and slightly crisp—about 10 minutes.
Ingredients
How to Make Apple Fritters
Start by preparing the apples. Peel them thoroughly, remove the cores, and slice them into even rings—not too thin, so they hold their shape during frying. Place the apple slices in a bowl and drizzle them with fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a subtle tang that complements the sweetness.
Start by preparing the apples. Peel them thoroughly, remove the cores, and slice them into even rings—not too thin, so they hold their shape during frying. Place the apple slices in a bowl and drizzle them with fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a subtle tang that complements the sweetness.
Next, create a simple cinnamon coating. Sprinkle ground cinnamon over a flat plate and lay out the apple rings on top. Dust a little more cinnamon over the apples so both sides are lightly spiced. Then, gently press each slice into all-purpose flour to coat them evenly—this helps the batter stick beautifully later.
Now it's time to make the batter. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until they’re fully combined and slightly frothy. Pour in the milk and vegetable oil, giving the mixture a quick stir. Then gradually sift in the flour and baking powder, mixing until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. It should be thick enough to cling to the apples but still pourable.
Next, create a simple cinnamon coating. Sprinkle ground cinnamon over a flat plate and lay out the apple rings on top. Dust a little more cinnamon over the apples so both sides are lightly spiced. Then, gently press each slice into all-purpose flour to coat them evenly—this helps the batter stick beautifully later.
Dip each floured apple slice into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated on both sides. Let any excess drip off, then carefully transfer the slices into a pan of hot oil heated to around 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches, turning each fritter once, until both sides are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about two to three minutes per side.
Once fried, remove the fritters from the oil and let them rest on a wire rack to drain. Avoid paper towels—they can make the bottoms soggy. While the fritters are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Serve them immediately for the ultimate crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside experience.
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