Cinnamon Apple Fritters are fluffy, sweet little treats packed with warm apple chunks and flavored with cinnamon. They’re the perfect mix of soft and crunchy!
These fritters are great for breakfast or a snack. When I eat them fresh out of the fryer, I can’t help but smile—just the right amount of sweetness! 😋
I love to sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar on top. It makes them even tastier and perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to myself! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the fritters. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend, which works well in this recipe.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to the fritters. For a healthier alternative, try coconut sugar or honey. Just remember to adjust the liquid amounts if you use honey.
Buttermilk: It gives a nice tang and tenderness. If you don’t have any, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes to sour.
Apples: I suggest using tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness. If you want a sweeter taste, Fuji apples work great too. If they aren’t available, pears can also be a fun swap!
Ground Cinnamon: This is crucial for that warming flavor. If you really love it, feel free to add a bit more! You can also try using pumpkin pie spice mix as an alternative for an extra twist.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Fritters Without a Mess?
Frying can be a bit tricky, but here are some steps to keep it clean and simple:
- Use a deep, heavy pot or a deep-fryer to control the oil temperature better. A thermometer can be your best friend—aim for 350°F (175°C).
- When adding batter to the hot oil, do it gently to avoid splashes. Use a spoon or small scoop.
- Fry in small batches; don’t overcrowd the oil. This helps maintain the oil temperature and prevents soggy fritters.
Once done, place the fritters on a wire rack for draining. This keeps them crispy instead of letting them sit in the oil, which can lead to a soggier bottom.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Fuji)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk (more if needed)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for frying, plus a little time to let the fritters cool before glazing. So, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes total before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until it’s well-mixed. This helps the fritters rise nicely!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then, add the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir them together until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
4. Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in the diced apples into the batter. This adds sweetness and texture to your fritters!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a heavy skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the fritters fully. This will help them fry evenly and become nice and crispy!
6. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry only 3-4 fritters at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked inside.
7. Drain the Fritters:
Once they are golden and delicious, use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil. Let them drain on paper towels placed over a wire rack. This keeps them crisp!
8. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon for the glaze until it’s smooth and slightly runny. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
9. Glaze and Serve:
Drizzle or brush the glaze over the warm fritters and sprinkle with additional powdered sugar if you like. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
These fritters are soft, sweet, and full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! 🍏✨
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?
Yes! While apples are traditional, you can substitute with pears, mashed bananas, or even berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits will alter the flavor and moisture level, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
It’s best to use the batter immediately for the best texture. However, if you need to prepare in advance, you can mix the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container, then mix in the wet ingredients just before frying.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Is It Necessary to Use Buttermilk?
While buttermilk adds a nice tang and keeps the fritters tender, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity. Just let it sit for a few minutes before using!
