Baked Apple Fritters

Baked apple fritters always remind me of a crisp autumn afternoon when I first decided to bake instead of fry my favorite treat because I wanted something lighter yet still comforting. The aroma of apples and cinnamon filled my kitchen while the glaze set perfectly on each fritter, making it impossible to resist grabbing one right from the tray.

Over time I discovered that baking apple fritters not only makes them a bit healthier but also brings out a deeper apple flavor that pairs so beautifully with warm spices. This recipe became a household favorite since it is simple to make and brings so much joy with every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Apples – Add natural sweetness and juicy texture to the fritters
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and keeps the fritters tender
• Baking powder – Helps the fritters puff up nicely while baking
• Cinnamon – Brings warmth and a cozy flavor to every bite
• Sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps with caramelization
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness
• Milk – Adds moisture and keeps the batter smooth
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor
• Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden exterior
• Powdered sugar – Used for the glaze that coats the fritters beautifully
• Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately
• Whisk – To mix the batter smoothly without lumps
• Baking sheet – The base where the fritters bake evenly
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
• Cooling rack – Ensures fritters cool down evenly while keeping their texture
• Small saucepan – For preparing the glaze to drizzle over the fritters

Instructions

Step 1

I start by preheating my oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Then I peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks because smaller pieces bake more evenly.

Step 3

In a large bowl I whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar to create a uniform dry mix.

Step 4

In another bowl I combine eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract then stir until everything blends perfectly.

Step 5

I gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and add the apple pieces while being careful not to overmix.

Step 6

Using a spoon I drop small mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet leaving space between each fritter.

Step 7

I bake them for about 15 to 18 minutes until they turn golden brown and puff up nicely.

Step 8

While they bake I prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk until smooth.

Step 9

Once out of the oven I let the fritters cool slightly on a wire rack then drizzle the glaze generously over the top.

Tips

I love to add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an extra depth of flavor. If you want a crunchier topping you can sprinkle a little coarse sugar before baking. You can also swap in whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier twist or use pears instead of apples for a fun variation.

Ways to Serve

These fritters are perfect when served warm with a cup of coffee or tea. I sometimes pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or drizzle caramel sauce over them for an indulgent treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked apple fritters ahead of time?

Yes you can bake them a day in advance and store in an airtight container then reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Can I freeze baked apple fritters?

Absolutely just freeze them without glaze and reheat before adding the topping.

Can I use different apples?

Yes you can use any variety though tart apples like Granny Smith give the best balance of flavor.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these baked apple fritters a try because they are one of my favorite cozy treats that always make everyone smile. Share your results with me and let me know how they turn out.

Happy Cooking!

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