How to Make Caramel Apple Fritters: Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistible

If you’re a fan of the classic apple fritter, why not take it up a notch by adding a rich caramel glaze? These caramel apple fritters are a dream come true—crispy on the outside, soft and fruity on the inside, and perfectly coated with a luxurious caramel drizzle. Ready to make your kitchen smell like a bakery? Let’s get started!

Best caramel apple fritters
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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fritters:

  • 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (enough to fill your frying pan about 2 inches deep)

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare Your Apples

Start by peeling and dicing the apples into small pieces. Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor. Sprinkle the diced apples with a pinch of cinnamon and set them aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices will give your fritters a warm and comforting flavor.

3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if the batter looks a little lumpy. Gently fold in the diced apples.

4. Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature for even cooking.

5. Fry the Fritters

Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, carefully drop small mounds of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, cooking each fritter for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. Make the Caramel Glaze

While the fritters cool slightly, prepare the caramel glaze. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the brown sugar and stir continuously until it fully dissolves. Mix in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, letting the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes. Take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes to thicken.

7. Glaze the Fritters

Drizzle the warm caramel glaze generously over the fritters or dip the tops of the fritters directly into the caramel. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Fritters

  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the fritters dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until combined.
  • Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature: Too hot, and your fritters will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil. Maintaining 350°F is key.
  • Use Fresh Apples: The fresher the apples, the juicier and tastier your fritters will be.
  • Make Extra Glaze: You can never have too much caramel!

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Fritters

These fritters are the ultimate fall-inspired treat, but they’re perfect any time of year. The combination of crispy fried dough, warm spiced apples, and sweet caramel is absolutely irresistible. Pair them with coffee or hot cider for a cozy snack or dessert.

FAQs

1. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, but they’re best enjoyed fresh. If needed, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

2. What type of apples works best for fritters?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are great options because they hold their shape and have a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Keep in mind the texture won’t be quite as crispy as frying.

4. How long does the caramel glaze last?
You can store the glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat it gently before using.

5. Can I freeze leftover fritters?
Yes, let them cool completely before freezing. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes.

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