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Craving the warm, cozy flavors of apple fritters but want to skip the frying? These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect solution! Packed with tender chunks of apple, warm spices, and a sweet vanilla glaze, these fritters are a healthier, easier version of the classic treat. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No frying required: Baked to golden perfection for a lighter treat.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for fall: Warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors make these ideal for autumn.
- Kid-friendly: A fun recipe to make with little helpers in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups)
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This ensures the fritters don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the fritters light and tender.
4. Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter until they’re evenly distributed. The chunks of apple add a delicious texture and burst of flavor to every bite.
5. Shape the Fritters
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet. You can make them as big or small as you like—just ensure they’re spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for even baking.
6. Bake to Perfection
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. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
7. Prepare the Glaze
While the fritters are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (for a thinner glaze) or more powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
8. Glaze the Fritters
Once the fritters are done baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip the tops directly into the glaze. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use the Right Apples: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense fritters. Mix until just combined.
- Evenly Sized Fritters: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all the fritters are the same size for even baking.
- Double the Glaze: If you’re a glaze lover, feel free to make extra!
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Add Nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for a spicier flavor profile.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Add a Caramel Drizzle: Swap the glaze for a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Apple Fritters are perfect for:
- Breakfast: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
- Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Snack: Pack them in lunchboxes or enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze these fritters?
Absolutely! Freeze unglazed fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat and glaze before serving.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect combination of sweet, spiced, and tender—all without the mess of frying. They’re easy to make, healthier than traditional fritters, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to bring smiles to the table.