If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort treat that combines tender chunks of apple, a warm hint of cinnamon, and a glossy vanilla-scented glaze, you’ll absolutely adore Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze. This cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up—each bite bursts with caramelized apples and a dreamy, fragrant coating. Whether you’re a fritter fanatic or trying them for the first time, get ready for a homemade classic that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how these simple, familiar ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Every item on this list plays an important role in making Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze totally irresistible—from soft centers to that shiny, sweet finish.
- All-purpose flour: The base for a sturdy yet tender fritter; don’t substitute, as the right flour keeps things just the right kind of fluffy.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and slight caramelization during frying.
- Baking powder: This helps every fritter puff up beautifully as it fries for a soft, airy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch will enhance all the flavors, making the apples taste even brighter.
- Ground cinnamon: The signature color and aroma that transforms these fritters into the ultimate autumn treat.
- Ground nutmeg: A subtle dash adds warmth and depth without overpowering the apple.
- Large eggs: Eggs bind everything together for the perfect bite of fritter goodness.
- Whole milk: Delivers a touch of richness and keeps the batter super moist.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds warmth to both batter and glaze.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Brings extra tenderness and flavor to every bite.
- Peeled and finely diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Use crisp apples for a perfect sweet-tart pop; a must for genuine Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Go for a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or sunflower for golden, evenly cooked fritters.
- Powdered sugar (for glaze): The foundation of that glossy vanilla topping.
- Milk (for glaze): Just enough to make the glaze silky and easy to drizzle or dip.
- Vanilla extract (for glaze): Boosts the sweet, comforting aroma in every glazed bite.
How to Make Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze
Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl. Blending these dry ingredients first ensures the cinnamon and nutmeg will be distributed evenly, so every fritter is packed with the best fall flavor from the inside out.
Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture builds moisture and richness, ensuring that every Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritter with Vanilla Glaze has a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Step 3: Combine & Fold in Apples
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix, taking care not to overwork the batter. The moment things just come together, fold in the finely diced apples. To keep the fritters soft and light, be gentle—this step is all about building tender texture packed with apples!
Step 4: Heat Oil For Frying
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer is your best friend here for that perfect golden crunch without greasy fritters. If you don’t have one, a cube of bread should sizzle and brown in about 60 seconds.
Step 5: Fry the Fritters
With a cookie scoop or tablespoon, carefully drop rounded portions of batter into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan, so each fritter cooks evenly. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re deeply golden and puffed up—your kitchen will smell amazing! Transfer finished fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Vanilla Glaze
While your Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl. Aim for a smooth, pourable glaze—not too thick, not too runny. This glossy vanilla coat is the crowning glory of these fritters!
Step 7: Dip or Drizzle & Enjoy
Either dip each fritter into the glaze or use a spoon to drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Place them on a wire rack set over wax paper and let the glaze set for a few minutes. Enjoy them immediately while the outside is crisp and the inside is still warm and pillowy.
How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze
Garnishes
For a bakery-worthy finish, dust your Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with a light sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar while the glaze is still tacky, or serve with a delicate shower of powdered sugar on top. A few thin apple slices or a scatter of finely chopped toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts are great) add an elegant crunch and hint at what’s inside!
Side Dishes
Pair your fritters with a mug of hot coffee or spiced chai for an indulgent breakfast treat. For dessert, serve them next to a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or alongside a bowl of fresh fruit salad for a fresh counterpoint to their sweet, rich flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze on a rustic cake stand for a stunning centerpiece at brunch. Or, skewer them onto sticks for a playful party snack. You can even sandwich a bit of whipped cream or apple butter between two fritters for an extra-special twist—guests will absolutely love these bite-sized showstoppers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, though they’re truly at their best fresh. The glaze helps seal in their moisture, but for longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just remember they’ll lose some crispness.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the fritters (without glaze) to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Freeze the glaze separately or prep a fresh batch when you reheat the fritters.
Reheating
For best results, rewarm the fritters in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet for 5-8 minutes, which helps restore a bit of their outer crisp. If you’re re-glazing, wait until after reheating to add the sweet vanilla drizzle once more. Avoid the microwave, as it makes the fritters gummy instead of crisp.
FAQs
What kind of apples work best for Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal; they hold their shape and offer a delightful balance to the sweet glaze. Softer varieties tend to get mushy or blend into the batter too much.
Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter option, spoon the batter into a greased mini muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes. You’ll get a fluffier, muffin-like texture, but the spirit of Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze will still shine through.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
While it’s not strictly necessary, peeling prevents tough bits of skin in the final fritters and ensures the interior is soft and consistent. For the best texture, take a couple extra minutes to peel them.
Do I have to use whole milk?
Whole milk gives the best richness, but you can substitute 2% milk if needed. Plant-based milks work in a pinch, just expect a slightly different flavor and texture.
Why is my glaze too runny or too thick?
Glaze consistency depends on the amount of milk and powdered sugar. If it’s too runny, add more sugar a spoonful at a time; if too thick, whisk in milk a few drops at a time until it’s perfectly pourable for coating your Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze.
Final Thoughts
Few things beat the smell and taste of fresh homemade fritters, especially when bursting with fresh apples and kissed with vanilla glaze! Gather your favorite people and treat them to Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze—you’ll quickly see why they’re a beloved classic worth making again and again. Enjoy every warm, gooey bite!
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Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. The warm, spiced apple flavor combined with a sweet glaze makes them irresistible.
Ingredients
For the fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- vegetable oil (for frying)
For the vanilla glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix just until combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
- In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fritters for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. While fritters are still warm, dip them in the glaze or drizzle it over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Best enjoyed warm the day they’re made.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even cooking.
- You can bake these in a mini muffin tin at 350°F for 12–15 minutes as a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
