Healthy Baked Apple Fritters with Cinnamon Glaze – Step-by-Step

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Introduction

If you’re in the mood for a cozy apple dessert without all the oil, these Baked Apple Fritters with Cinnamon are the perfect choice. They’re tender, lightly sweet, and packed with warm spice. Since they’re baked instead of fried, you can enjoy every bite without the guilt.

Apple fritters are a classic comfort food. But most recipes are loaded with oil and sugar. This version is different. It’s light, fresh, and made with wholesome ingredients like real apples, whole wheat flour, and natural sweeteners.

You can enjoy these oven-baked apple fritters for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a simple dessert. They’re easy to make and ready in less than 30 minutes. Plus, the cinnamon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re baking for fall, feeding your family, or just want a better way to enjoy apples, this recipe delivers. It’s quick, healthy, and full of cozy flavor.

Let’s get started on these baked apple fritters with cinnamon glaze—your kitchen is going to smell amazing!

Here are many other apple-based recipes for you to try:

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Baked Apple Fritters

No Deep Frying – Lighter and Lower in Fat

These baked apple fritters are made in the oven, not in hot oil. They’re lighter, cleaner, and better for your health. You get the same delicious taste without all the grease.

Perfect for Fall Mornings or Cozy Snacks

The warm mix of apples and cinnamon makes them perfect for chilly mornings. You can also enjoy one with tea or coffee as a comforting afternoon treat.

Made with Fresh Apples and Whole Ingredients

This recipe uses real apples, whole wheat flour, and simple pantry items. It’s a clean and wholesome way to enjoy a classic dessert.

Naturally Sweetened and Kid-Friendly

There’s no need for refined sugar here. These fritters use honey or maple syrup for a sweet flavor that both kids and adults will love.

Easy to Bake in Under 30 Minutes

You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. These healthy baked apple fritters go from bowl to oven to table in just half an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Apple Fritters

Raw baked apple fritters with cinnamon glaze on parchment paper
A batch of raw apple fritters topped with cinnamon glaze, arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Fresh Apples (Like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

Use crisp apples for the best texture and flavor. Granny Smith adds a tart bite, while Honeycrisp brings natural sweetness. Chop them into small, even pieces.

Whole Wheat or All-Purpose Flour

You can choose whole wheat for more fiber or all-purpose for a softer bite. Both work well in these baked apple fritters.

Baking Powder, Cinnamon, Nutmeg

These give your fritters the rise, spice, and warmth they need. Cinnamon adds a cozy flavor, and nutmeg brings depth to every bite.

Natural Sweeteners (Maple Syrup, Honey, Coconut Sugar)

Skip the white sugar. Use maple syrup or honey to keep things sweet and healthy. Coconut sugar is also a great low-glycemic option.

Eggs, Applesauce, Greek Yogurt (For Moisture and Binding)

These ingredients hold the fritters together. They also keep the texture soft and moist. Applesauce adds extra apple flavor, and yogurt gives a light tang.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Baked Apple Fritters

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will keep your baked apple fritters from sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients in One Bowl

In a large bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend gives the fritters their warm, spiced flavor.

Whisk Wet Ingredients in Another

In a second bowl, whisk the eggs, applesauce, Greek yogurt, and your sweetener of choice. Keep mixing until smooth and creamy.

Fold in Chopped Apples Gently

Add the fresh apple pieces to your wet mix. Then slowly fold in the dry ingredients. Stir just enough to combine—don’t overmix.

Spoon Batter onto Tray and Bake Until Golden

Use a spoon or scoop to drop even portions onto your baking tray. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the fritters turn golden and firm.

How to Make the Perfect Cinnamon Glaze

Ingredients: Powdered Sugar, Milk (or Dairy-Free), Cinnamon

Start with 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Use any milk you like, including plant-based options.

Optional: Add Maple Extract or Vanilla

For extra flavor, add a drop of vanilla or maple extract. It brings a rich and warm touch to your cinnamon glaze.

Mix Until Smooth and Pourable

Stir everything in a small bowl. Keep mixing until the glaze looks smooth and flows easily from a spoon.

Drizzle Over Warm Fritters

Right after baking, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over your warm apple fritters. The heat helps the glaze soak in just a bit.

Let Glaze Set for a Glossy Finish

Wait a few minutes before serving. The glaze will firm up and give the fritters a shiny, sweet finish.

Tips, Variations, and Storage Ideas

Freshly baked apple fritters with cinnamon glaze served on a plate
A plate of warm, golden baked apple fritters topped with cinnamon glaze, ready to serve on a cozy kitchen table.

Swap Flour Types or Make Gluten-Free

You can use whole wheat flour for extra fiber. Or try a gluten-free blend if you need a wheat-free option. Both work well in these healthy baked apple fritters.

Add Nuts or Raisins for Texture

Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. You can also mix in raisins for extra sweetness and a chewy bite.

Make Ahead and Store for Up to 3 Days

Bake a batch and keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for one day or in the fridge for up to three.

Reheat in Oven or Air Fryer for Best Texture

Warm them in a low oven or air fryer for a few minutes. This brings back the crisp outside and soft inside.

Turn Them into Muffin-Shaped Fritters or Minis

Use a muffin tin for a fun twist. You can also make mini versions for snacks or lunchbox treats.

Healthy Baked Apple Fritters with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Close-up of a healthy baked apple fritter with cinnamon glaze on a plate

Healthy Baked Apple Fritters with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

These Healthy Baked Apple Fritters with Cinnamon Glaze are soft, sweet, and packed with real apple flavor. They’re made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and natural sweeteners—no deep frying needed. Ready in under 30 minutes, they make a perfect fall treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Fritters:
  • 1 cup chopped apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
For the Cinnamon Glaze:
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 –2 tbsp milk or plant-based milk
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt) in one bowl.
  3. Whisk wet ingredients (egg, applesauce, yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla) in another bowl.
  4. Fold in chopped apples and mix until just combined.
  5. Scoop batter into mounds on the baking sheet (use a spoon or scoop).
  6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden and firm. Let cool slightly.
  7. Make glaze by mixing powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth.
  8. Drizzle glaze over warm fritters and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best apples for baked apple fritters?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best. They hold their shape and give a sweet-tart flavor.

2. How do I make my fritters crispier in the oven?

Use parchment paper and bake at a slightly higher temp (around 400°F) for the last 5 minutes.

3. Can I freeze baked apple fritters?

Yes. Let them cool fully, then freeze in a sealed container. Reheat in the oven to keep the texture.

4. What makes these apple fritters healthy?

They’re baked, not fried, and use natural sweeteners, whole ingredients, and fresh apples.

5. Is the cinnamon glaze necessary?

It’s optional, but it adds great flavor. You can also try a light dusting of powdered sugar instead.

Conclusion

Now you know how to make healthy baked apple fritters with cinnamon glaze at home. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. You don’t need oil, fancy tools, or a lot of time.

These apple fritters are light, warm, and full of flavor. They work for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. They also make your kitchen smell amazing.

So give this recipe a try. Bake a batch, drizzle the glaze, and enjoy every bite.

If you love it, leave a comment below. I’d love to hear how your baked apple fritters turned out!

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