
These Apple Fritter Bites Are Better Than Donuts
I discovered these apple fritter bites when I was craving something sweet but wanted to skip the deep fryer. These little bites of heaven are perfectly fluffy inside packed with fresh apples and topped with the most amazing caramelized glaze. They've become my favorite fall treat to share with friends and family or just enjoy with my morning coffee.
Why These Apple Fritter Bites Always Disappear Fast
I love that these apple fritter bites are baked instead of fried but still taste absolutely incredible. The apple flavor just pops and that glaze takes them over the top. Best part? They're ready in under an hour perfect for when those sweet cravings hit.
What You'll Need
- Apples: Honeycrisp are my favorite but any firm baking apple works great.
- Applesauce: Grab the unsweetened kind for pure apple flavor.
- Flour: Regular all purpose flour works perfectly here.
- Baking powder: This makes them nice and fluffy.
- Cinnamon: Adds that warm cozy spice we all love.
- Butter: I use unsalted so I can control the salt.
- Sugar: Both regular and powdered for the perfect sweetness.
- Apple cider: Makes the most amazing glaze.

Let's Make Some Magic
- Mix It Up
- Combine your dry ingredients in one bowl wet in another then bring them together with your diced apples don't overmix.
- Time to Bake
- Drop spoonfuls onto your baking sheet and let them get golden in the oven.
- That Amazing Glaze
- Whisk your sugar and cider together until smooth then brush it all over those warm fritters.
- The Final Touch
- Pop them under the broiler for that gorgeous caramelized top then add one more coat of glaze.
My Baking Secrets
Chop your apples nice and small they'll distribute better in each bite. Don't work the batter too much or they won't be as fluffy. Keep a close eye when they're under the broiler they can go from perfect to burnt in seconds. Fresh baking powder makes all the difference in how well they rise.
Save Some For Later
These apple fritter bites stay good for a couple days on the counter or pop them in the fridge for about a week. Want them warm? Just heat them up in the oven for a few minutes or give them a quick zap in the microwave. They taste amazing either way.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why bake instead of fry these fritters?
Baking makes them healthier and easier to prepare while still achieving a delicious caramelized finish.
- → Can I use different types of apples?
While Honeycrisp is recommended, any firm baking apple will work well in this recipe.
- → How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Watch carefully during broiling and rotate the pan every minute. Remove as soon as the glaze starts to caramelize.
- → Can I make these ahead?
Yes, they keep for 2 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge. Reheat briefly before serving.
- → Why use unsweetened applesauce?
It adds moisture and apple flavor without making the fritters too sweet, since they'll be topped with glaze.