Baked Apple Fritters
these Baked Apple Fritters are about to become your new fall obsession! They’re easier than pie, healthier than their fried cousins, and so darn good you’ll want to make them every weekend from now ’til Christmas! Perfect for gatherings, cozy family nights, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these fritters bring the warm flavors of autumn right to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These fritters come together quickly, requiring only 10 minutes of prep time!
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, they offer a guilt-free indulgence.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh apples provides an irresistible taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use different types of apples or add nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to whip up these delicious fritters.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A sturdy surface ensures even baking for your fritters.
- Silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowls: Helps keep ingredients organized while preparing the batter.
Ingredients
For the Fritters
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 Cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 Cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 Tablespoons butter (cold and cut into pieces)
- 1/2 Cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 Cup chopped apple
For the Glaze
- 1 Cup confectioner’s sugar
- 2 Tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat for easy removal of the fritters later.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
All-purpose flour
White whole wheat flour
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Allspice
Salt
Step 3: Cut in Butter
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Milk
2. Egg
3. Vanilla extract
Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Step 5: Add Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apple until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Portion Out Fritters
Drop spoonfuls (about 1/4 cup each) of batter onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 11–13 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set.
Step 8: Glaze Preparation
Remove fritters from oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Set your oven to broil while you prepare the glaze by whisking together:
Confectioner’s sugar
Milk
Vanilla extract
Step 9: Apply Glaze
Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter before broiling for 2–4 minutes until tops are golden.
Step 10: Final Touches
Brush remaining glaze over warm fritters once they are out of the broiler. Allow glaze to harden slightly before serving.
Enjoy these delightful Baked Apple Fritters warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying them as a dessert or a fun snack, there are plenty of ways to serve these delightful treats.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm fritters, enhancing their sweetness and providing a delicious contrast in temperature.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A generous drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and richness, making each bite even more indulgent.
Topped with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the spices in the fritters and adds a delightful lightness to the dish.
Served with Maple Syrup
- For a breakfast twist, serve your fritters with warm maple syrup for dipping. This adds a sweet, comforting touch that everyone will love.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Slices of fresh fruit, like pears or berries, can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm fritters and balance out the sweetness.
With a Cup of Hot Cider
- Pairing these fritters with a warm cup of apple cider enhances their fall flavors, creating a cozy snack perfect for chilly days.
How to Perfect Baked Apple Fritters
To ensure your Baked Apple Fritters turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh apples: Freshly chopped apples give the best flavor and texture. Opt for varieties like Jonagold or Granny Smith for added tartness.
- Chill ingredients: Keep your butter cold before mixing. This helps create flaky and tender fritters.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your fritters light and airy. Overmixing can result in dense fritters.
- Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking; ovens can vary, and you want them golden but not overcooked.
- Glaze while warm: Brush glaze on when the fritters are still warm to help it adhere better and soak in some moisture.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices or add new ones like ginger or cloves for an extra flavor kick!
Best Side Dishes for Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters can be enhanced by serving them alongside delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Toast
A simple yet flavorful option that echoes the spices in the fritters while adding crunch. -
Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness that balances the sweetness of the fritters. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a contrast in texture that complements the softness of the fritters. -
Cheese Platter
An assortment of cheeses provides savory notes that pair well with sweet desserts, enhancing your snack experience. -
Hot Chocolate
Rich hot chocolate is perfect for dipping and creates a cozy atmosphere, especially during fall evenings. -
Savory Muffins
Offer some savory muffins on the side to balance out the sweetness of your fritters while providing variety. -
Nut Mix
A bowl of spiced nuts can add crunch and protein, making your treat feel more satisfying. -
Spiced Tea
Serve hot spiced tea to elevate this snack into an indulgent afternoon delight!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Baked Apple Fritters even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Incorrect flour measurements: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always measure flour accurately, ideally by weight.
- Not chilling the butter: If the butter isn’t cold, the fritters may not rise properly. Make sure to cut the butter into pieces and chill it before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough fritters. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and a nice finish. Don’t skip it; it elevates the flavor!
- Inaccurate baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your fritters and adjust baking time as needed for perfect golden-brown results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Baked Apple Fritters in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Apple Fritters
- Place cooled fritters in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Apple Fritters
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
- Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds. They may lose some crispness.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. This method helps retain their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Apple Fritters:
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes! You can use any apple variety you like, but tart apples like Granny Smith work well for balance.
How do I make these fritters gluten-free?
Substitute both flours with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or raisins can be added to enhance flavor and texture.
How do I know when my fritters are done baking?
Fritters are ready when they are golden brown on the bottom and firm in the center.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Apple Fritters are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. They embody the cozy flavors of fall and make a delightful treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or toppings!
Baked Apple Fritters
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Apple Fritters are the quintessential fall treat you won’t want to miss! This easy, healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters combines the warmth of fresh apples with a delightful blend of spices. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up these fluffy bites, perfect for cozy family gatherings or an indulgent snack at home. Glazed to perfection, they are not only delicious but also versatile—ideal for breakfast, dessert, or even as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. With every bite, you’ll experience the comforting flavors of autumn that make these fritters irresistible.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped apple
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat.
- Whisk together dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and vanilla; add to dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in chopped apples and drop spoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 11–13 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
- Prepare glaze while fritters bake by mixing confectioner's sugar, milk, and vanilla; apply glaze once fritters are out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 162mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
