Maple Glazed Applesauce Fritters
These quick and easy applesauce fritters are golden and crisp on the outside with a soft, tender center thanks to applesauce and diced fresh apples. Flavored with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, then glazed with maple syrup and powdered sugar, they taste like the best parts of apple pie and donuts rolled into one. Ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a cozy fall breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a sweet snack anytime you’re craving something homemade.
Equipment
- Measuring cups & prep bowls
- Thermometer
- Frying pan
- Stovetop or Grill
- tongs
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Baking sheet (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon sugar
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup milk adjust slightly if needed to loosen batter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely chopped firm apple use more if needed
- Canola oil for frying
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar.
- Stir in the egg, applesauce, milk, and vanilla until combined — batter should be thick and spoonable.
- Gently fold in chopped apple pieces. If batter feels too loose from apple moisture, add 1–2 tablespoon extra flour.
- In a heavy skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 inches of oil to ~350°F.
- Drop heaping tablespoons of batter into hot oil. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, toss fritters in maple syrup then coat with powdered sugar. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Apple Choice Matters: Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. They hold their shape and add a juicy, tart contrast to the sweet batter.
- Applesauce Adds Moisture: Unsweetened applesauce keeps the batter soft and cake-like, reducing the need for extra sugar or fat. Homemade applesauce works beautifully—just make sure it’s not too watery.
- Frying Tips: Keep oil around 350°F for the crispiest results. If it’s too cool, the fritters will absorb oil and turn greasy; too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.