Baked Apple Fritters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Baked Apple Fritters combine the cozy flavors of fresh apples and warm spices, creating an irresistible treat. The best part? They’re baked instead of fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. With a quick prep time and minimal ingredients, these fritters are simple to make but taste like something you’d find at a bakery. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, they’ll quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 medium apple, peeled and chopped

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the apple mixture)

• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for drizzling)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. In another bowl, mix together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.

5. In a separate small bowl, toss the chopped apple pieces with brown sugar and cinnamon.

6. Gently fold the apple mixture into the batter until evenly distributed.

7. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small fritters.

8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

9. Let the fritters cool for a few minutes before drizzling with powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 fritters.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 18-20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Instead of drizzling with powdered sugar, you can coat the fritters in cinnamon sugar as soon as they come out of the oven for an extra burst of flavor.

• Glazed Fritters: Create a glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract, and drizzle it over the fritters for a sweet finish.

• Add-ins: For extra texture, you can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free, ensuring it’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

• Apple Variations: Use other apple varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warm. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds if you prefer a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze these Baked Apple Fritters?

Yes, you can freeze the fritters! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

2. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour. Just make sure you use the correct ratio, as some alternative flours may affect the texture.

3. How do I know when the fritters are done baking?

The fritters should be golden brown and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of one fritter, and if it comes out clean, they are ready to be removed from the oven.

4. Can I add more sugar to the fritters?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar, but keep in mind that the apple mixture already provides some sweetness, so a little goes a long way. You can also add a sweet glaze for extra sweetness.

5. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the batter onto the baking sheet and bake as usual.

6. Are these fritters healthy?

These fritters are a healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters since they are baked instead of deep-fried. Using real apples and reducing the amount of sugar makes them a more wholesome treat.

7. Can I use a different fruit in place of apples?

Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just make sure the fruit is diced into small pieces so it mixes well into the batter.

8. How can I make these fritters more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like ginger, cloves, or cardamom to the batter. You could also use apple pie spice in place of the cinnamon and nutmeg for a more complex flavor.

9. How do I make sure the fritters are soft on the inside?

To ensure a soft and moist center, be careful not to overmix the batter and bake just until golden brown. Overbaking can lead to dry fritters.

10. Can I bake these in a muffin tin?

Yes, you can bake the fritters in a muffin tin for a slightly different shape and texture. Just grease the muffin tin or use liners, and bake for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect fall treat, combining the warmth of cinnamon and apples with the convenience of baking instead of frying. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these fritters are sure to delight. With endless variations and easy prep, you can enjoy a healthier version of this classic comfort food whenever you want.