OMG Homemade Apple Fritters!

OMG Homemade Apple Fritters! The easiest apple fritter recipe that can be oven-baked or lightly “fried” on a pan. Made with gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free ingredients.

There are certain recipes that just scream fall baking season, and apple fritters are at the very top of that list. You know the ones—those golden, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside fritters studded with warm apples and drizzled in a sweet glaze. Growing up, I always thought apple fritters were one of those bakery treats that felt impossible to make at home. They seemed so fancy, like something you’d only get at your favorite coffee shop with a hot latte in hand.

But let me tell you something—apple fritters are shockingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen, and when you make them yourself, you can use ingredients that you actually feel good about. They’re cozy, nostalgic, and one of the best ways to use up that bag of apples you grabbed on your last grocery run (or maybe from apple picking if you’re like us and make it a fall tradition).

This version is simple, customizable, and just the right mix of indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend brunch recipe, a sweet after-dinner treat, or a fun dessert to bake with the kids, these apple fritters are about to be your new go-to.

What Are Apple Fritters?

If you’re new to fritters, think of them as little fried (or pan-fried) cakes made with batter, fruit, and spices. Apple fritters specifically are filled with diced apples, lightly spiced with cinnamon, and usually glazed with a simple powdered sugar topping.

Traditionally, apple fritters are deep-fried and ultra-sweet, but I wanted to create a recipe that gives you all the same flavors and textures without being overly heavy. This version is pan-fried in avocado oil, which makes them golden and crispy without the grease factor. Plus, we’re using coconut sugar in place of refined white sugar, so they’re just sweet enough without being cloying.

What ingredients you need to make homemade apple fritters:

• Diced apples – The star of the show, obviously! The beauty of apple fritters is that you can use just about any variety of apple. I used Macintosh, which soften up beautifully while still holding their shape, but Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith all work depending on your flavor preference. If you want a sweeter fritter, go with Fuji or Gala. For something a little tart to balance the glaze, Granny Smith is amazing.
• All-purpose flour or gf all-purpose flour – This gives the fritters their structure. I’ve tested with both traditional all-purpose flour and a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend, and both work perfectly. If you’re gluten-free, just make sure you use a high-quality flour blend that includes xanthan gum for binding.
• Coconut sugar – Instead of refined white sugar, I love using coconut sugar here. It has a deeper, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples and cinnamon. Plus, it’s a little less processed. If you don’t have coconut sugar, cane sugar or brown sugar will also do the trick.
• Cinnamon – That classic warm spice that makes apple fritters taste like fall in every bite. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice if you want an extra cozy twist.
• Non-dairy milk or sub your milk of choice – I usually go with almond milk or oat milk, but truly any milk you have in the fridge works here – regular dairy milk included. It just helps bring the batter together.
• Egg – The egg binds everything and gives the fritters a little lift. I haven’t tested this recipe with a flax egg, but it should work if you need to keep things plant-based. The texture may be a little softer, but still delicious.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor. A little goes a long way!
• Avocado oil if pan frying – I love using avocado oil for pan-frying because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. You can also use coconut oil if you prefer that subtle coconutty taste.
• Powdered sugar – For the glaze! Apple fritters aren’t complete without that sweet drizzle on top. Just powdered sugar whisked with a little non-dairy milk until smooth. If you like a thicker glaze, use less milk. For a thinner drizzle, add a splash more.

How to Make Apple Fritters

These apple fritters come together in just a few steps:

1. Dice the apples. Chop them into small bite-sized chunks. You can peel them if you prefer a smoother texture, but I usually leave the skin on for added fiber and color.

2. Mix the batter. In one bowl, whisk together flour, coconut sugar, and cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the diced apples. The batter should be thick but scoopable.

3. Fry the fritters. Heat a thin layer of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 1/4 cup batter for each fritter and gently flatten it with the back of a spoon. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

4. Glaze them. Whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle over warm fritters or dip them right in.

5. Serve + enjoy. Best enjoyed warm and fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Rachel’s Tips for the Best Apple Fritters

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each fritter room to cook evenly.

• Size matters. Smaller fritters cook more evenly and get crispier edges.

• Make them extra crispy. After pan-frying, pop them in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes to get that bakery-style crunch.

• Play with spices. A pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or even cardamom makes these fritters extra special.

FAQs About Apple Fritters

Can I bake apple fritters instead of frying them?
Yes! They won’t be quite as crispy, but you can bake them at 375°F for 15–18 minutes. Brush lightly with oil or spray with cooking spray before baking.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Definitely. Use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend, and they’ll turn out beautifully.

Do apple fritters store well?
They’re best fresh, but you can store them for a day or two in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to crisp them back up.

What’s the best apple to use?
Any variety works, but Granny Smith gives a nice tart bite while Macintosh gets soft and sweet. Honeycrisp is a great all-around option.

Can I skip the glaze?
You can, but why would you?! The glaze takes them from really good to bakery-worthy.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritters

• Super easy to make in under 30 minutes.

• Made with simple, better-for-you ingredients.

• Customizable with your favorite apples or spices.

• Naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free.

• Taste just like the ones from your favorite bakery, but lighter and fresher.

How to Serve Apple Fritters

I love these straight from the pan with the glaze dripping down the sides. But if you want to level things up, here are a few fun ways to serve them:

• With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

• As part of a fall brunch spread with pumpkin bread and coffee.

• Packed into lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.

• Dusted with extra cinnamon sugar if you don’t want the glaze.

Apple fritters are one of those recipes that just feels like a hug in food form. They’re nostalgic, cozy, and the perfect way to welcome fall baking into your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for your family, sharing them with friends, or keeping the whole batch to yourself (no judgment here), they’re guaranteed to bring joy.

So next time you have a few apples lying around and a craving for something warm and sweet, give these apple fritters a try. They’re quick, easy, and taste like the best part of fall.

And of course, if you make them, tag me on Instagram so I can see your beautiful fritters in action. I can’t wait to see your creations.

A few other delicious apple recipes to whip up:

The Best Healthy Apple Bread Ever (vegan + gluten-free)

Vegan Apple Pie Crumb Bars (paleo + gluten-free)

Gluten-free Apple Pie Stuffed Snickerdoodle Cookies

Paleo Apple Pear Crisp (gluten-free)