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+ servings
close-up of a maple-glazed apple fritter

Apple Fritters

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these homemade apple fritters are packed with juicy Granny Smith apples and warm spices. Drizzled with a sweet maple glaze, they're an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 large fritters
Course: pastries
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the fritters:
  • 3 cups oil for frying
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom

  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 1/2 cups cups peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples about 3 apples
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
  • 1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons water as needed

Method
 

To make the fritters:
  1. Heat the oil in a large pan on the stovetop until it reaches 375°F (190°C) on a candy thermometer. 
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside. 
  3. In a separate bowl, toss the apples in the lemon juice. 
  4. Using a hand mixer with a whisk attachment, combine the eggs and sugar until frothy. Then add the milk and vanilla.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined. Fold in the apples.
  6. Spray a 1/3 cup measuring cup with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and then use it to carefully scoop and drop a heaping cupful of the batter into the hot oil.
  7. Working in batches of 2 or 3 fritters at a time, cook for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Transfer the fritters to a cooling rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to cool slightly while you make the glaze.
To make the glaze:
  1. Whisk together all of the glaze ingredients until smooth.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the fritters and allow to cool slightly before serving. 

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days.
  • For tips, step-by-step photos, and extra details, be sure to read the full post above before starting. It’s packed with helpful info to answer common questions!

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