If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, the Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, pillowy fritters bursting with warm cinnamon-spiced apples, each bite perfectly complemented by a luscious vanilla glaze that melts into every nook and cranny. This irresistible dessert is as comforting as it is delicious, making it a wonderful choice for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert that’ll have friends and family asking for your secret recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each one playing a vital role in creating the fritters’ signature softness and rich flavor. From the flour that gives structure, to the cinnamon that brings warmth, every component is simple yet essential for making these fritters truly shine.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: A reliable base that keeps the fritters soft and fluffy.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon and apple flavors.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Provides the lift needed for those airy, melt-in-your-mouth fritters.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Delivers that classic cinnamon warmth that pairs perfectly with apples.
- ½ cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together for a rich, satisfying texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds a fragrant sweetness to the batter and glaze.
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced: The star ingredient that adds fresh bursts of sweet and tart flavor.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: Creates a crispy golden exterior while keeping the inside soft.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the irresistible vanilla glaze.
- 2–3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with creamy, aromatic flavor.
How to Make Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon in a large bowl. This mixes your dry ingredients evenly so every bite of fritter gets that perfect cinnamon flavor combined with just the right amount of sweetness and lift.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk and vanilla extract. Mixing these separately ensures they incorporate smoothly into the dry ingredients without overworking the batter.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined. Don’t overmix—just enough to bring everything together is key to keeping the fritters soft and tender.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the peeled, cored, and diced apples so that each piece is evenly distributed throughout the batter. These juicy apple bits will soften as they cook, adding wonderful bursts of flavor and moisture.
Step 5: Heat the Oil and Fry the Fritters
Heat a few inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up. Drain the fritters on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable but still thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This glaze is what transforms your fritters from delightful to downright irresistible.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
While the fritters are still warm, drizzle them generously with the vanilla glaze so it soaks into every crevice. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon adds a pretty finishing touch and a flavor boost to your already delicious fritters. For an extra indulgent treat, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream right on top.
Side Dishes
Pair your fritters with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of hot apple cider for a cozy, autumn-inspired brunch. They also make a charming complement to a savory breakfast spread with bacon or sausage.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these fritters into a shareable dessert by stacking them on a pretty platter and drizzling the vanilla glaze down the sides. You can even skewer smaller fritters on sticks for a fun party treat or dust them with colored sugar to match any festive occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their softness, avoid refrigerating as this can dry them out.
Freezing
If you want to save fritters for longer, freeze them after they have cooled completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or room temperature fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and warm the apple filling. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp and mildly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully to balance the sweetness, but feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties.
Is it possible to bake these fritters instead of frying?
You can bake the fritters, but frying gives them that classic crispy exterior and soft inside texture. To bake, place spoonfuls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden.
Can I make the vanilla glaze dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk you prefer for a delicious dairy-free glaze.
How do I know when the oil is the right temperature for frying?
Use a thermometer to keep the oil at about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small bit of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly but not burn immediately.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins make excellent add-ins for extra texture and flavor. Just fold them in with the apples before frying.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing these Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe. From start to finish, this dish combines simple ingredients in a beautifully comforting way that feels festive yet familiar. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how the warm cinnamon, juicy apples, and sweet vanilla glaze come together in every soft, delightful bite.
Print
Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 fritters
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Soft Cinnamon Apple Fritters with a luscious Vanilla Glaze, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Featuring warm cinnamon-spiced apples in a fluffy batter, these fritters are an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Fritters
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and blended.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
- Add apples: Fold the peeled, cored, and diced apples into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of about 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C) or until a small drop of batter sizzles when placed in the oil.
- Fry the fritters: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop heaping spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the vanilla glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (start with 2 tablespoons and add more to reach desired consistency), and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze the fritters: Drizzle or dip the warm fritters in the vanilla glaze. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance against the sweet glaze.
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent to prevent greasy fritters.
- For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add more.
- These fritters are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Optional: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth in flavor.
