Name: Big Apple Fritters Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp mixed), peeled and diced; 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola); 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside — this Big Apple Fritters recipe is the ultimate sweet treat. Bursting with chunks of juicy apples, a golden fried batter, and a kiss of cinnamon sugar, each bite is like a cozy fall memory you can eat. These fritters are oversized, indulgent, and unapologetically delicious — just like the ones you’d find at a classic county fair.

Whether you’re craving a warm dessert on a chilly night or need a fun weekend baking project, these fritters check every box. They’re quick to make, super satisfying, and taste just as amazing as they look — especially with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Big Apple Fritters Recipe

This recipe takes everything you love about apple pie and transforms it into a crispy, handheld masterpiece. The batter is rich and flavored with warm spices, while the apples stay tender and slightly tart. Frying brings everything together into a crunchy, caramelized shell that’s impossible to resist.

You’ll love that they come together in under 30 minutes and require no fancy equipment. These fritters are perfect for parties, breakfast treats, or a dessert that steals the show.

What Kind of Apples Work Best for Fritters?

For the best texture and flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith offers that tangy bite that holds up well during frying, while Honeycrisp or Fuji brings sweetness and moisture. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious—they tend to break down too much.

Cut the apples into small chunks (not slices), so every bite of the fritter gets a perfect apple-to-batter ratio.

Ingredients for the Big Apple Fritters Recipe

These ingredients come together to create fritters that are crispy, sweet, and full of real apple flavor:

Apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp) – The heart of the fritters; sweet, tart, and juicy chunks in every bite.
All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the batter.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and balances the tart apples.
Eggs – Bind everything together and add richness.
Milk – Helps thin the batter to the perfect consistency.
Baking powder – Gives the fritters a light, airy texture.
Cinnamon + Nutmeg – Infuse warm spice into the batter.
Vanilla extract – Adds a smooth, aromatic flavor.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and overall flavor.
Powdered sugar or glaze – The finishing touch that adds a sweet top layer.
Oil for frying – You’ll need enough to deep-fry to golden perfection.

How To Make the Big Apple Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel and dice the apples into small chunks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, and vanilla. Add the wet mixture to the dry and stir until just combined. Fold in the apples.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Step 4: Fry the Fritters

Drop spoonfuls of batter (about 1/4 cup) into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze while still warm. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Big Apple Fritters

These fritters are best served fresh and warm, right after frying — crispy on the outside, soft and melty inside. You’ll get about 8 large fritters from this recipe, making it ideal for a family brunch or dessert for a small crowd.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels. They’ll keep at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes to revive that crispiness. Avoid microwaving — it makes them soggy.

What to Serve With Big Apple Fritters?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The warmth of the fritters meets cool, creamy ice cream in the best way.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle this over the top for a rich, buttery contrast.

Maple Syrup

Classic and sweet — pairs perfectly with apple and cinnamon.

Whipped Cream

Light and fluffy, it adds a lovely contrast to the crispy texture.

Hot Apple Cider

Enhance those fall flavors with a warm drink that complements the spices.

Coffee or Espresso

A bold cup of coffee balances the sweetness and makes it a perfect breakfast indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?
While you can bake fritters at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, they won’t have that signature crisp exterior. Frying gives the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best oil for frying fritters?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to fry the fritters right after mixing the batter. If you must prep ahead, store the diced apples separately and mix just before frying.

Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is highly recommended for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The skin can get chewy when fried.

How do I make the glaze?
Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons milk and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for powdered sugar or a thick glaze? Maybe added a touch of cardamom?

I love seeing your versions! Questions are always welcome, and your tips help others get it just right.

Explore more cozy, crave-worthy comfort bakes over on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest — where sweet meets simple!

Conclusion

Big Apple Fritters are the kind of treat that stops you in your tracks — crispy, sweet, and packed with real apple flavor. They’re quick to make, super satisfying, and perfect for any time you want something indulgent and homemade. Keep this recipe in your favorites because one batch is never enough!

Big Apple Fritters Recipe

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 large fritters
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Golden brown and bursting with juicy apples, these Big Apple Fritters are the ultimate indulgent treat. Each fritter is crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and loaded with warm cinnamon spice. Whether dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled in glaze, they taste like your favorite fairground snack made right in your own kitchen. Perfect for a quick dessert, cozy breakfast idea, or fall baking project — this easy recipe will have your whole house smelling amazing and everyone asking for more.