If you love apple fritters but are looking for a healthier version that doesn’t involve deep frying, these Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect solution. Made with fresh apples, warm spices, and a light glaze, these fritters are baked to golden perfection. They have all the delicious flavors of a traditional apple fritter but are lighter and much easier to prepare at home. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, these fritters will quickly become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Baked Apple Fritters
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vanilla extract, and eggs until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Step 5: Add the Apples
- Gently fold in the diced apples and brown sugar until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Form the Fritters
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the dough at a time and drop it onto the prepared baking sheet, forming irregular mounds. Leave about 1-2 inches of space between each fritter.
Step 7: Bake
- 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.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
- While the fritters are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
Step 9: Glaze the Fritters
- Once the fritters are done baking, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and let it set before serving.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Apple Choice: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe because of their tartness, which balances the sweetness. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work well.
- Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is cold when incorporating it into the dry ingredients, as this helps create a tender texture.
- Storage: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Variations
- Caramel Apple Fritters: Add 1/4 cup of caramel bits to the dough for an extra indulgent twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option.
- Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of maple syrup to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a slightly heartier texture. If using gluten-free flour, make sure it is a 1:1 substitute for best results.
2. Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the fritter dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake the fritters ahead and glaze them just before serving.
3. How Do I Prevent the Fritters from Spreading Too Much?
Make sure your butter is cold and do not overmix the dough. This helps keep the fritters from spreading too much during baking.
4. Can I Air Fry These Fritters?
Absolutely! Place the fritters in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
These Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious and healthier way to enjoy a classic treat. With their warm apple flavor, hint of cinnamon, and sweet glaze, they make a wonderful addition to any breakfast or dessert table. Easy to prepare and baked instead of fried, these fritters are a great way to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Try them today and watch them disappear in no time!
Happy baking!
