Baked Apple Fritters

Craving apple fritters but want a healthier, less greasy option? These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect solution! They have all the flavors and textures of the traditional fried version, but they’re baked to golden perfection instead. Loaded with tender apple chunks and warm spices, each bite is bursting with fall flavor. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, these fritters are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delicious snack. Enjoy all the coziness of homemade apple fritters with a lighter twist that’s easy to whip up in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and delivers all the comforting flavors of classic apple fritters without the mess of frying. The tender, baked dough is filled with juicy apple chunks and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making each bite taste like a cozy fall treat. The vanilla glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness, making these fritters perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you can enjoy them guilt-free!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Fritters:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
  3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Fold in the apples and brown sugar: Gently fold in the chopped apples and packed light brown sugar until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Shape the fritters: Use a spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping each mound into a round fritter shape. Leave a bit of space between each fritter, as they will spread slightly while baking.
  7. Bake the fritters: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
  8. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add an additional tablespoon of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  9. Glaze the fritters: Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip each fritter into the glaze to coat the tops. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Serve and enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy these delicious baked apple fritters with a cup of coffee or tea!

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: Serve these fritters slightly warm for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
  • Storage: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat in the microwave before serving.

Helpful Notes

  • If you prefer a crisper top, brush the fritters lightly with melted butter before baking.
  • For a more intense apple flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith or add a pinch of ground ginger to the batter.
  • Make sure to chop the apples into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly within the fritters.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes! You can substitute the apples with pears or even add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a twist.

2. Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious.

3. Can I add nuts?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a delicious crunch to these fritters.

4. How do I keep the fritters moist?
Make sure not to overbake the fritters, as this can cause them to dry out. Baking them just until a toothpick comes out clean will ensure a soft, moist texture.

5. Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, you can freeze the unglazed fritters for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Glaze just before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful twist on the classic fried treat. With their tender, spiced dough and juicy apple chunks, each bite is bursting with fall flavors. The sweet vanilla glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. Enjoy these homemade fritters with family and friends, and savor the taste of a warm, comforting treat!

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