If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and irresistibly sweet, these Salted Warm Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect treat. Golden on the outside, soft and spiced on the inside, they deliver all the cozy flavors of fall — without the deep frying.
Made with fresh apples, a touch of cinnamon, and a hint of sea salt, these baked fritters bring a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Serve them straight from the oven, drizzled with salted caramel or dusted with powdered sugar, for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients
Makes 10–12 fritters
For the Fritters
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk (whole or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes (for sprinkling)
- Optional: ¼ cup salted caramel sauce or powdered sugar for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 15–18 minutes
- Total time: 30–35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and both sugars.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Add Apples
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples — the batter will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
- Scoop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Brush the warm fritters with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Serve immediately with salted caramel drizzle or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Serve alongside hot coffee or apple cider for a cozy autumn treat.
- For breakfast, enjoy with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
- Add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 fritter) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Total Fat | 7 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 26 grams |
| Sugars | 14 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 170 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
- Baking instead of frying cuts calories and saturated fat significantly.
- A light touch of sea salt enhances flavor while balancing the sweetness.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg add antioxidants and warm spice notes.
Tips for Perfect Baked Fritters
- Use firm apples that hold their shape after baking (avoid mealy varieties).
- Don’t overmix the batter — this ensures soft, fluffy fritters.
- For extra caramel flavor, mix 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce into the batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat briefly in the oven before serving.
Variations to Try
- Salted Caramel Fritters: Drizzle with homemade caramel and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Apple-Pecan Fritters: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Maple Glazed Fritters: Brush with a warm maple glaze instead of butter.
- Mini Fritters: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized versions, perfect for parties.
These Salted Warm Baked Apple Fritters are the ultimate comfort dessert — crisp on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly balanced with a hint of salt and spice. With their simple ingredients and no-fry preparation, they’re a healthier twist on a classic favorite.
Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to become a cozy staple in your kitchen all year round.