Ingredients

For the Fritters

• 1½ cups All-purpose Flour – forms the structure of the fritters and keeps them light.
• ¼ cup Granulated Sugar – sweetens the batter without overpowering the apple flavor.
• 2 tsp Baking Powder – helps the fritters puff up for a soft interior.
• ½ tsp Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1½ tsp Ground Cinnamon – adds warmth and depth, perfect with apples.
• ⅓ cup Milk – binds ingredients and adds moisture to the batter.
• 2 large Eggs – provide structure and help bind everything together.
• 3 tbsp Applesauce – boosts apple flavor and keeps fritters moist.
• 2 large Apples, peeled and diced – use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and tart-sweet flavor.
• Canola Oil – for deep frying; has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

For the Glaze

• 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar – creates the sweet, smooth glaze.
• ¼ cup Milk – thins the glaze to pourable consistency.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract – adds classic sweetness and aroma.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare cooling racks: Place wire racks over baking sheets lined with wax or parchment paper. Set aside for draining and glazing the fritters.
2. Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk until evenly distributed.
3. Mix wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add milk, eggs, and applesauce. Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
4. Fold in apples: Gently stir in the diced apples until evenly incorporated into the batter.
5. Heat oil: Fill a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven with 1½ to 2 inches of canola oil. Heat to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
6. Fry the fritters: Using a ¼ cup measuring scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. Cook until golden: Fry each fritter for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed.
8. Drain fritters: Transfer fritters to paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Make the glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze if needed.
10. Glaze the fritters: Dip each fritter into the glaze while still slightly warm. Flip to coat both sides, then place on prepared wire racks.
11. Let glaze set: Allow fritters to sit for 5–10 minutes so the glaze can firm up before serving.

Why This Recipe is Loved

• Easy to make at home with pantry staples.
• Perfectly spiced with a soft, fluffy center and crispy edges.
• Infused with real apple chunks for authentic flavor and texture.
• Ideal for fall baking, holidays, or a sweet breakfast treat.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fritters

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best bite.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
• Test oil temperature with a thermometer to avoid soggy or undercooked fritters.
• Let the glaze set on a wire rack for a beautiful, mess-free finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Big Apple Fritters warm with a cup of fresh coffee or spiced chai. For extra indulgence, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Big Apple Fritter recipe brings together all the best parts of apple season in one unforgettable bite. With their crispy golden shell, tender spiced interior, and sweet vanilla glaze, these fritters are a true crowd-pleaser. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and unbeatable results—this is one fall dessert recipe you’ll turn to again and again.