The Best Gluten Free Apple Fritters Recipe (Crispy, Easy & Delicious!)

Gluten free apple fritters aren’t just a dessert—they’re a celebration of comfort, joy, and mindful eating. At Advised Recipes, I believe cooking should be about sharing love through food. That’s why I craft recipes that work for everyone, especially those with dietary needs. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or simply seeking a more gut-friendly alternative, this gluten free apple fritters recipe delivers everything you love about the classic—golden edges, warm cinnamon, soft apple bites—without the gluten.

Inspired by my journey as a passionate home chef, these fritters are about more than just taste. They’re about community, inclusivity, and making sure no one misses out on a good bite. In this article, I’ll show you how to make fritters that are crispy, fluffy, naturally sweet, and perfect for breakfast or dessert. We’ll cover everything from gluten free ingredient choices and frying tips to storage, health tips, and the answers to your top fritter questions.

Discover great ideas like our Paleo Breakfast Meatballs if you’re looking for high-protein gluten free options.

Gluten Free Apple Fritters

What Are Gluten Free Apple Fritters?

Gluten free apple fritters are a twist on a timeless favorite. They take everything you love—tender apple chunks, warm spices, and that golden-fried crunch—and recreate it using gluten free flours like almond, rice, or certified gluten free all-purpose flour. The goal? A fritter that satisfies like the original, but supports your dietary needs.

Perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, they’re also a great choice for anyone trying to reduce gluten without sacrificing flavor. My version brings you crispy, lightly sweet fritters that are as perfect with coffee as they are fresh out of the pan.

At Advised Recipes, I craft each recipe with flavor, texture, and accessibility in mind. That means these gluten free fritters are family-friendly, allergy-aware, and yes—absolutely irresistible.

Why Go Gluten Free? Health, Taste & Texture Benefits

There’s more to going gluten free than avoiding wheat. It can mean better digestion, fewer energy crashes, and an overall lighter, cleaner feel after meals. And with the right recipe (like this one), you’ll find you’re not missing a thing.

Here’s why gluten free apple fritters should be in your weekend rotation:

Reason	Why It Matters
Digestive Support	Gluten free flours reduce bloating and support gut health
Allergy-Friendly	Safer for families managing food intolerances
Better Crispiness	Flours like rice and tapioca create a crunchier outer layer
Nutritional Customization	Add fiber, protein, or healthy fats with alternative ingredients

Print

Don’t miss our Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe—it’s moist, spiced, and naturally gluten free!

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Perfect Texture

Best Gluten Free Flours for Apple Fritters

When it comes to making gluten free apple fritters, flour matters—a lot. The wrong choice can lead to gummy centers or crumbly dough that won’t hold together. The key is combining flours and starches that mimic the elasticity and structure of wheat without the gluten. Here are some of the top flour options:

Flour Type	Why It Works for Fritters
Gluten-Free All-Purpose	Balanced, pre-blended mix; ideal for beginners
Almond Flour	Adds nutty flavor and richness
Rice Flour	Light and crisp; helps with golden browning
Tapioca or Potato Starch	Boosts elasticity; essential for binding the batter
Coconut Flour (in small amounts)	Absorbs moisture and adds subtle sweetness

Most recipes for gluten free apple fritters use a blend of these flours. For example, a great base is 1 cup gluten-free AP flour, 2 tablespoons tapioca starch, and a touch of almond flour for flavor.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Homemade Maple Breakfast Sausage Patties for another satisfying morning bite.

Apple Varieties That Enhance Flavor and Texture

Apples are the soul of your fritters. They bring moisture, sweetness, and that signature soft bite inside a crispy shell. But not all apples perform the same. The best gluten free apple fritters use apples that hold their shape but soften just enough during frying.

Here’s a quick guide:

Apple Variety	Flavor Profile	Texture When Cooked
Granny Smith	Tart, crisp	Holds shape well
Honeycrisp	Sweet-tart, juicy	Softens slightly, adds juiciness
Fuji	Sweet, firm	Great balance of bite and moisture
Pink Lady	Balanced and aromatic	Retains structure but softens nicely

For maximum flavor, try mixing two varieties: one tart (like Granny Smith) and one sweet (like Fuji). This brings balance and complexity to your fritters.

Check out our Maple Breakfast Sausages if you love sweet-savory combos in your breakfast!

Step-by-Step Recipe for Gluten Free Apple Fritters

Preparation: Mixing the Batter & Handling Gluten-Free Dough

Making gluten free apple fritters from scratch might seem intimidating, but it’s simpler than you think. The trick is getting the batter consistency just right—thick enough to hold the apples but still pourable. Gluten free flours don’t behave like regular wheat flour, so the moisture ratio matters more than ever.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum if your mix doesn’t include it)
• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons sugar (coconut sugar or brown sugar work well)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup dairy-free milk or whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp mix recommended)
• A pinch of salt

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients.
2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and vanilla.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
4. Gently fold in the diced apples. Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes so the flours can hydrate fully.

Don’t miss our Sweet Potato Lasagna if you’re into creative gluten free comfort food ideas.

Frying Techniques: Avoiding Sogginess and Achieving Crispiness

One of the most common challenges in making gluten free apple fritters is getting them crispy on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Here’s how to get that golden, delicious crust without ending up with soggy fritters.

Key frying tips:

• Use the right oil: Neutral oils like canola or avocado oil work best.
• Heat matters: Oil should be at 350°F (175°C). Too cool and they absorb oil; too hot and the outsides burn before the inside cooks.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry 2–3 at a time, giving them space to float and brown evenly.
• Drain well: Place on a wire rack or paper towels immediately after frying.

Here’s a quick reference table:

Problem	Solution
Fritters soggy	Oil was too cool or batter too wet
Center undercooked	Fritter was too large or oil temperature dropped
Fritter breaks apart	Batter too thin or didn’t rest long enough

Once your fritters are cooked, drizzle with glaze or dust with powdered sugar. They’re best eaten warm, but you’ll learn later how to store and reheat them without losing that signature crunch.

Discover great ideas like our Dreamy Vegan Lemon Custard for more gluten and dairy free dessert options.

With these prep and frying tips, your gluten free apple fritters will come out just right—crispy, soft, and bursting with apple flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Apple Fritters

Why Apple Fritters Turn Out Soggy and How to Fix It

Let’s be honest—no one wants soggy fritters. Especially not when you’ve worked hard to craft perfect gluten free apple fritters. Unfortunately, sogginess is one of the most common problems, and it usually comes down to batter consistency or frying technique.

Here’s what might be going wrong and how to fix it:

Mistake	What Happens	How to Fix It
Batter too wet	Fritters soak up oil	Use less liquid or add more flour blend
Oil too cool (below 340°F)	Fritters don’t crisp, absorb oil	Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F
Fritters too thick	Undercooked centers	Flatten batter slightly before frying
Overcrowding the pan	Oil temperature drops	Fry in small batches for even cooking

Pro Tip: Always rest your batter for at least 10 minutes. This allows the gluten free flour to fully absorb the liquid and thicken properly—leading to a more stable, crispy result.

Don’t miss our guide on Homemade Pizza Dough to master more gluten free textures at home.

Do Gluten Free Apple Fritters Require Yeast?

The short answer? No, yeast isn’t necessary for making light and fluffy gluten free apple fritters. In fact, yeast can complicate things when you’re working with gluten free flour, which lacks the proteins to trap air the same way traditional doughs do.

Instead of yeast, these fritters rely on:

• Baking powder: Adds lift and lightness
• Eggs: Help bind and trap air
• Tapioca starch or potato starch: Improves elasticity and holds things together

Using baking powder keeps the process quick, simple, and beginner-friendly. There’s no waiting for dough to rise—just mix, fry, and enjoy!

If you still want to experiment with yeasted gluten free batters, go slow and use a gluten free flour blend specifically designed for rising doughs. Otherwise, skip the yeast and enjoy the ease of this no-fuss version.

Looking for more quick recipes? Don’t miss our Chicken Caesar Salad Perfection for a hearty gluten free lunch idea.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your gluten free apple fritters come out golden, crispy, and never soggy. Plus, by skipping the yeast, you’ll save time without sacrificing taste or texture.

Health Benefits & Nutritional Overview

Are Apple Fritters Healthy or Unhealthy?

At first glance, you might assume gluten free apple fritters are just another indulgent treat—and they can be. But when made with the right ingredients and methods, they can actually be a better-for-you option than traditional fritters.

Let’s break it down.

Healthier aspects of gluten free apple fritters:

• Gluten Free Flour: Less inflammatory for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
• Real Apples: Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
• Control Over Ingredients: Homemade versions cut back on preservatives, additives, and excessive sugars.
• Fried at Home: You can choose healthier oils (like avocado or sunflower) and control the temperature for cleaner frying.

Pro Tip: Want an even lighter fritter? Use an air fryer instead of deep frying. You’ll reduce the fat while keeping that golden crust.

Check out our Vegan Chocolate Covered Easter Eggs for another clean and indulgent dessert idea.

Gluten Free Apple Fritter Calorie Breakdown

Here’s a typical nutritional breakdown for one medium gluten free apple fritter, depending on your specific ingredients and portion size:

Nutrient	Amount (approximate)
Calories	180–240 kcal
Total Fat	8–12g (depends on oil used)
Carbohydrates	25–35g
Sugars	10–15g (from apples + glaze)
Fiber	2–3g (thanks to apples and flours)
Protein	3–5g
Gluten	0g (100% gluten free)

The key takeaway? When compared to store-bought or bakery fritters, homemade gluten free apple fritters can be more nutritious, fresher, and better suited to your dietary goals.

Looking for other healthy comfort foods? Don’t miss our Sweet Potato Lasagna—it’s gluten free, hearty, and loaded with nutrients.

By using high-quality, whole-food ingredients and mindful cooking methods, gluten free apple fritters can absolutely be part of a balanced, feel-good lifestyle.

Storage and Reheating Techniques

How to Store Gluten Free Apple Fritters for Freshness

You’ve just made a batch of crispy, sweet gluten free apple fritters—but what if you’ve got leftovers? Don’t worry, they can still taste amazing the next day… if you store them properly.

Here’s how to keep your fritters from getting soggy or stale:

For short-term storage (up to 2 days):

• Let fritters cool completely on a wire rack.
• Store in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
• Keep at room temperature if you’ll eat them within 24 hours.
• Refrigerate only if you’re keeping them for 48 hours, but note they’ll soften a bit.

For long-term storage:

• Place cooled fritters in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Freeze for 1 hour until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
• Label with the date and store up to 2 months.

Discover more tips like this in our Ultimate AIP Banana Bread Guide—a gluten and grain free favorite!

Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness

Nobody likes a mushy fritter. Luckily, reheating gluten free apple fritters the right way brings back that just-fried texture.

Here’s how to reheat them the smart way:

Method	Instructions	Result
Oven (Best)	350°F for 8–10 minutes on a wire rack	Crispy outside
Air Fryer	350°F for 5–6 minutes	Golden & crunchy
Skillet (No oil)	Heat over medium-low, flip occasionally until warm	Slightly crispy
Microwave (Last resort)	15–20 seconds, uncovered	Soft, not crispy

Avoid reheating in a closed container or wrapping in foil—moisture builds up and makes them soggy. Using a toaster oven or air fryer delivers the best “fresh-out-of-the-pan” results.

Don’t miss our 5-Star Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs if you’re in the mood for quick, flavorful gluten free meals.

By storing and reheating your gluten free apple fritters properly, you extend the enjoyment without losing their signature crispness and flavor. That means more sweet moments—and less waste.

Toppings, Glazes, and Serving Suggestions

Classic Glazes and Creative Topping Ideas

Now that your gluten free apple fritters are golden and crispy, it’s time to take them from great to unforgettable. A well-chosen glaze or topping can elevate flavor, add texture, and make your fritters even more craveable.

Here are some tried-and-true glaze options that pair perfectly with gluten free fritters:

Traditional Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (or plant-based milk)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  Whisk together until smooth, then drizzle over warm fritters.

Maple Cinnamon Drizzle:

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  A cozy, fall-flavored glaze that’s especially good with Honeycrisp apples.

Dairy-Free Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Zest of half a lemon
  Bright and tangy—perfect for balancing the sweetness of the fritters.

Want something with a crunch? Try topping your gluten free apple fritters with crushed pecans, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar right after frying.

Don’t miss our Dreamy Vegan Lemon Custard with Strawberry Compote for another topping idea that can be spooned over warm fritters!

What to Serve with Gluten Free Apple Fritters

These fritters are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a drink or a complementary side can turn a simple treat into a complete experience.

Here are some serving ideas:

Pairing Idea	Why It Works
Hot coffee or chai tea	Balances sweetness with bold, warming spices
Greek yogurt or coconut whip	Adds creaminess and cool contrast
Fruit compote or applesauce	Doubles down on fruit flavor without extra sugar
Bacon or sausage patties	A sweet-savory combo perfect for brunch

Hosting brunch? Stack a few fritters, drizzle with glaze, and top with whipped cream and a sprig of mint. Your guests will never guess they’re gluten free.

Check out our Maple Breakfast Sausages for a savory side that pairs perfectly with sweet fritters.

With these toppings and pairings, your gluten free apple fritters can become the centerpiece of a stunning dessert plate or an unforgettable breakfast spread.

Comparing Gluten Free vs Regular Apple Fritters

When it comes to fritters, does gluten free really measure up? Absolutely. While traditional fritters use wheat flour, gluten free apple fritters bring their own unique benefits—and flavor.

Texture and Flavor Differences

Gluten free fritters often have a crispier outer layer thanks to rice or tapioca flour. Inside, they’re soft and apple-packed, just like the classic version.

Type	Texture	Flavor
Regular Fritters	Chewy, dense	Slight wheat aftertaste
Gluten Free Fritters	Crispy outside, soft center	Clean, apple-forward taste

For anyone avoiding gluten, there’s no sacrifice in taste. In fact, many find the gluten free version lighter and easier to digest.

Discover great ideas like our Gluten Free Carrot Cake if you’re exploring more gluten free baking swaps.

FAQ

Why did my apple fritters get soggy?

Too much moisture in the batter or frying at low heat can cause sogginess. Always fry gluten free apple fritters at 350°F and let the batter rest.

Do apple fritters contain yeast?

Not these! Our gluten free apple fritters use baking powder for rise—no yeast, no wait time.

What is the best way to store apple fritters?

Let them cool, then store in an airtight container lined with paper towels. For longer storage, freeze and reheat in an oven or air fryer.

How healthy are apple fritters?

Homemade gluten free apple fritters can be healthier with real apples, quality flours, and less sugar than store-bought versions.

Are fritters unhealthy?

They can be—if deep-fried and sugar-heavy. But made at home, gluten free apple fritters can fit into a balanced diet.

Is apple fritter strong?

If you mean bold in flavor—yes! The combo of apples, cinnamon, and glaze gives these gluten free apple fritters a rich, spiced profile.

Making gluten free apple fritters at home doesn’t have to be complicated or compromise on taste. With the right flour blends, frying techniques, and fresh apples, you can enjoy crispy, golden fritters that are naturally sweet, perfectly spiced, and entirely gluten free. Whether you’re new to gluten free baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings comfort food back to your kitchen—no wheat required.

Don’t miss our Paleo Breakfast Meatballs and Vegan Lemon Custard for more easy, allergy-friendly recipes.

Follow more tasty recipes on Facebook and Instagram!