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 cozy family gatherings or as a delightful treat on chilly afternoons, these fritters pack all the warm flavors of fall into every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: You can whip these up in just 25 minutes, making them a quick and easy dessert.
- Healthier Option: These fritters are baked instead of fried, giving you a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh apples or even canned ones for a delicious twist, making this recipe adaptable to what you have on hand.
- Deliciously Flavorful: With spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, the aroma alone will captivate your senses as they bake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple weekend brunch, these fritters fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Baked Apple Fritters effortless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are vital for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: A whisk helps achieve the perfect consistency when blending batter and glaze.
- Baking sheet: This allows for even baking of your fritters while providing ample space.
- Silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
Dry 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
Wet Ingredients
- 6 Tablespoons butter (cold and cut into pieces)
- 1/2 Cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruity Additions
- 1 Cup chopped apple
Glaze Ingredients
- 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 to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine 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 until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will give your fritters that perfect texture.
Step 4: Mix 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 apples, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 6: Shape Fritters
Drop by 1/4 cup-full onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them out evenly for optimal cooking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set.
Step 8: Prepare to Glaze
Remove fritters from the oven and place them on a wire rack. Turn your oven to broil.
Step 9: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
confectioner’s sugar
milk
vanilla extract
This will create a smooth glaze to add flavor.
Step 10: Glaze Fritters
Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter. Broil for 2–4 minutes until tops are golden brown.
Step 11: Final Glazing
Brush any remaining glaze over warm fritters before serving.
Step 12: Serve
Allow glaze to harden slightly before enjoying these delightful Baked Apple Fritters!
Now you’re set to indulge in this scrumptious fall treat!
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, there’s a perfect way to present these delicious fritters.
Breakfast Delight
- Serve warm with a side of yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Dessert Indulgence
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
- Top with whipped cream and cinnamon for an elegant finish.
Afternoon Snack
- Enjoy them plain or with a cup of hot tea for a cozy afternoon break.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a simple yet charming presentation.
Holiday Treat
- Arrange on a festive platter during gatherings to impress your guests.
- Garnish with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for seasonal flair.
How to Perfect Baked Apple Fritters
To ensure your Baked Apple Fritters turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use cold butter: Chilled butter helps create flaky textures within the fritters.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the fritters light and airy.
- Choose ripe apples: Use sweet, firm apples like Granny Smith or Jonagold for the best flavor.
- Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on them as ovens vary; they should be golden brown when done.
- Let cool before glazing: Allow fritters to cool slightly to prevent the glaze from sliding off.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add extra spices like cardamom or ginger for unique flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters are versatile and pair beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some great suggestions to enhance your meal:
- Cinnamon Oatmeal: A warm bowl of cinnamon oatmeal complements the flavors of the fritters nicely.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light balance, using seasonal fruits alongside apples.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds richness; try pairing with sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers texture and can be sprinkled over yogurt served alongside fritters.
- Caramel Sauce: A side of warm caramel sauce is perfect for dipping and adds decadent sweetness.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can cleanse the palate after enjoying these sweet treats.
- Hot Chocolate: For colder days, serve with hot chocolate to create a comforting dessert experience.
- Maple Bacon Slices: The savory flavor of bacon pairs wonderfully with sweet fritters, making it an unexpected treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Apple Fritters, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help ensure your fritters turn out perfectly.
- Using warm butter: Ensure your butter is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients. Warm butter can create a greasy texture instead of the desired flaky consistency.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough fritters rather than light and fluffy ones.
- Skipping the glaze: Don’t overlook the glaze! It adds sweetness and moisture. Make sure to brush it on while the fritters are still warm for better adhesion.
- Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color and ensures even cooking.
- Ignoring ingredient measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons for consistency, as slight variations can change texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Baked Apple Fritters in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Apple Fritters
- Place cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Apple Fritters
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place fritters on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual fritters for about 20-30 seconds, but be cautious as this may make them slightly softer.
- Stovetop: Place fritters in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Baked Apple Fritters last?
Baked Apple Fritters can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Baked Apple Fritters?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
What type of apples work best for Baked Apple Fritters?
Any firm apple variety works well, but Jonagold, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith apples are particularly tasty due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
How do I customize my Baked Apple Fritters?
Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or alternative spices like ginger or cardamom for unique flavors. You can also experiment with different glazes!
Are Baked Apple Fritters healthier than fried ones?
Yes, since these fritters are baked rather than fried, they contain less fat and are generally considered a healthier option while still being delicious!
Final Thoughts
Baked Apple Fritters are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Whether you enjoy them as a cozy dessert or snack, their delightful flavors make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or fruits—your taste buds will thank you!
Baked Apple Fritters
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 fritters 1x
Description
Baked Apple Fritters are the quintessential fall treat, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with tender, juicy apples. These delightful fritters are easy to prepare and healthier than traditional fried versions, making them perfect for cozy family gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will have your home smelling like autumn. Drizzle them with a smooth glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and serve warm for an irresistible experience. Get ready to savor every bite of these scrumptious baked delights!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
- 1 cup chopped apple
- 1 egg
- Milk
- vanilla extract
- cinnamon
- nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup confectioner's sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, combine milk, egg, and vanilla extract; add to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in chopped apples.
- Drop batter by 1/4 cup onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 11–13 minutes until golden brown; cool slightly before glazing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter (56g)
- Calories: 167
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 137mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 22mg
