Why Make This Recipe
Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious and easy treat perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. They are soft, flavorful, and packed with tender pieces of apple, making them a delightful choice for any occasion. Unlike fried fritters, this baked version offers the same great taste but with fewer calories, letting you enjoy them without the guilt. Plus, they fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma when they’re baking!
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- Optional glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dice the apples into 1/4- to 1/2-inch cubes and set them aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until foamy. Add the milk, vanilla, and melted butter, and whisk until combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the diced apples.
- Scoop the batter using a 1/4-cup measure onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scoop.
- Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let them cool slightly before glazing. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth, and drizzle it over the warm fritters.
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters are best served warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea. If you like, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a fun dessert.
How to Store Baked Apple Fritters
To store Baked Apple Fritters, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven for a couple of minutes.
Tips to Make Baked Apple Fritters
- Use freshly diced apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix your batter; this keeps your fritters light and fluffy.
- Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
- Experiment with different spices, such as ginger or allspice, for a unique flavor twist.
Variation
You can customize Baked Apple Fritters by adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using apple pie spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I bake these fritters in advance?
Yes! You can bake them a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
3. What should I do if my fritters turn out dry?
If they turn out dry, try not to bake them for too long next time. Keep an eye on them in the oven, and take them out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean.