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Classic Deep-Fried Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze

A close-up stack of golden brown, freshly fried apple fritter pieces drizzled with white vanilla glaze.

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Make crispy outside, tender inside apple fritters at home. This recipe uses cinnamon and apples for a warm, comforting fall flavor, finished with a simple vanilla glaze.

Ingredients

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  • 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Combine the diced apples, flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Mix them gently.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, 3/4 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined; do not overmix the batter. A few lumps are fine.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 365 degrees Fahrenheit (185 degrees Celsius). Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
  5. Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter (about 2 tablespoons each) into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
  6. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. While the fritters cool slightly, prepare the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  9. Dip or drizzle the warm fritters with the vanilla glaze. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • For a less greasy result, ensure your oil temperature is correct before frying. If the oil is too cool, the fritters absorb too much oil.
  • You can substitute the deep-frying method with an air fryer set to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, though the texture will be less traditional.
  • If you prefer a caramel glaze, substitute the milk in the glaze with 1 tablespoon of melted caramel sauce.

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