Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sourdough Apple Fritters are the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tanginess of sourdough enhances the sweetness of the apples and cinnamon, creating a uniquely delicious fritter. The crispy, golden outside and soft, apple-filled inside make each bite incredibly satisfying. These fritters are also wonderfully easy to make and can be enjoyed warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze. Whether you’re using up leftover sourdough starter or just craving a comforting fried treat, these fritters will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

1 cup sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Oil for frying (vegetable oil or canola oil works well)

For the Glaze (Optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2-3 teaspoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Batter:

Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and sugar.
Add the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick, but not too stiff. Gently fold in the diced apple and optional nuts.
Let the batter rest: Let the batter sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld and thicken slightly.

Fry the Fritters:

Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small spoonful of batter into it—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Fry the fritters: Using two spoons, scoop small portions of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry a few fritters at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Repeat the process: Continue frying the remaining fritters, ensuring the oil stays at the right temperature.

Make the Glaze (Optional):

Prepare the glaze: While the fritters are cooling, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if you prefer a thinner glaze.

Serve:

Glaze and serve: Drizzle the glaze over the fritters while they’re still warm, or serve them plain with a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy immediately for the best texture!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12 fritters
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Instead of glazing, roll the fritters in cinnamon sugar for a classic, crunchy coating.
Spiced Fritters: Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the batter for an extra depth of spice.
Vegan Version: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and plant-based milk to make these fritters vegan-friendly.
Fruit Variations: Substitute the apple for pears, peaches, or berries for a different fruity flavor.
Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup in place of milk to make a maple glaze for a richer, sweeter topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: To freeze, allow the fritters to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispness.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fritters in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re warm and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any variety of apple you like. Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the fritters, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work just as well.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough?

You can use a thermometer to check that the oil is at 350°F (175°C). Alternatively, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is ready.

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

These fritters are best when fried, as the crispy exterior and soft interior are what make them so special. However, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, if you prefer a less oily version.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The apples may release some juice, so be sure to stir the batter before using it.

Can I make these without sourdough starter?

Yes, if you don’t have sourdough starter, you can replace it with an equal amount of buttermilk or yogurt. This will give the fritters a similar tangy flavor, though it won’t have the same depth as sourdough.

Can I add other toppings to these fritters?

Yes, you can serve the fritters with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Sourdough Apple Fritters are a delicious and unique way to enjoy the combination of fresh apples, cinnamon, and the tang of sourdough. These crispy, golden fritters are perfect for breakfast, a sweet snack, or a dessert. With a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re a treat that will impress anyone who tastes them. Whether you’re using up your sourdough starter or simply craving something comforting, these fritters are a must-try!

Sourdough Apple Fritters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients