Apple Fritters are a delightful treat, combining soft, cinnamon-spiced dough with chunks of sweet apples and a crispy fried exterior. A simple glaze adds a sweet finish to these homemade goodies. Follow these easy steps to make delicious apple fritters right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅔ cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium-sized apples)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, carefully drop about ¼ cup of the batter into the hot oil for each fritter. Fry the fritters in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the fritters are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the fritters are cooling slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed; the glaze should be thick but pourable.
Step 5: Glaze the Fritters
Once the fritters have cooled slightly but are still warm, dip them into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Apple Fritters are now ready to enjoy! Serve them warm for the best flavor, or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They can also be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their freshness.
Cooking Notes:
- Apples: Granny Smith apples work well for a tart contrast to the sweet dough, but you can use any variety of apples you like.
- Oil Temperature: Be sure to monitor the oil temperature while frying to avoid burning the fritters or undercooking the centers.
- Glaze: If you prefer a lighter glaze, simply thin it out with a bit more milk. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fritters: Instead of glazing, toss the warm fritters in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a crunchy, sweet coating.
- Maple Glazed Fritters: Substitute maple syrup for milk in the glaze for a rich, maple flavor.
- Nutty Apple Fritters: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make the fritter batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and fry the fritters when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze apple fritters?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked fritters before glazing. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven, then glaze.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftover fritters?
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
These Homemade Apple Fritters are the perfect combination of sweet, crispy, and soft, with bursts of juicy apples in every bite. The easy-to-make batter and simple glaze make these fritters a crowd-pleasing treat that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Try this recipe today for a taste of homemade comfort!