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The Best Classic Deep-Fried Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze

A stack of four golden-brown, glazed apple fritter pastries piled on a white plate.

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Make these classic apple fritters that are golden and crispy on the outside with a tender, soft apple-filled center. This easy recipe uses pantry staples for a comforting fall treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. The batter will be thick.
  4. Gently fold in the diced apples.
  5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
  6. Carefully drop the batter by heaping tablespoons into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid crowding the pot.
  7. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. While the fritters cool slightly, prepare the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  10. Dip or drizzle the warm fritters generously with the vanilla glaze. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • For the crispiest exterior, maintain the oil temperature between 340°F and 350°F while frying.
  • Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture that holds up during frying.
  • If you prefer a lighter snack, consider an air fryer apple fritters recipe variation, though the texture will differ from this deep-fried version.

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