Baked Apple Fritters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baked apple fritters are bursting with warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple. The batter is light and fluffy, and each bite is filled with tender chunks of apple that caramelize slightly as they bake. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert, these fritters offer the satisfying taste of apple pie with less effort and fewer calories. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds an irresistible crunch that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups chopped apples (peeled)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add the Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Scoop the Batter: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape them into fritter-like mounds.
7. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the fritters cool slightly before serving. If desired, dust with a little powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze for extra sweetness.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 8-10 fritters.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15-18 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Glazed Fritters: For a sweeter treat, drizzle a simple glaze over the fritters made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for more fall-inspired flavor.
• Apple Pie Filling: Swap the fresh apples with canned apple pie filling for a shortcut version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispy exterior.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any apple variety you prefer, but tart apples like Granny Smith work especially well as they hold their shape when baked.

Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fritters ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze baked apple fritters?

Yes, you can freeze the fritters. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes when ready to eat.

Can I add a glaze?

Yes, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can be drizzled over the fritters for extra sweetness and a bit of shine.

What can I serve these fritters with?

These fritters are delicious on their own but would also be great with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.

How do I know when the fritters are done?

The fritters should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You can insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness; if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

Can I make these fritters without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.

How can I make these fritters more crispy?

For a crispier texture, you can bake them for an extra 2-3 minutes, or place them under the broiler for the last minute of baking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Can I make these fritters with gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to maintain the texture.

How do I prevent the fritters from being too soft?

Be sure to not overmix the batter, as that can make the fritters dense. Additionally, don’t overload the batter with too many apples. The right balance will give you soft but not soggy fritters.

Conclusion

These Baked Apple Fritters are a deliciously warm, comforting treat, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. With their soft, cinnamon-spiced interior and tender apple chunks, they’re a perfect choice for apple lovers. Plus, since they’re baked rather than fried, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of traditional apple fritters with less guilt. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or with your favorite toppings for a delightful treat any time of day!

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