Baked Apple Fritters
these Baked Apple Fritters are about to become your new fall obsession! They’re easier than pie, healthier than their fried cousins, and so darn good you’ll want to make them every weekend from now ’til Christmas! Perfect for cozy gatherings, weekend brunches, or simply when you crave a sweet treat, these fritters are sure to impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: These baked apple fritters offer all the flavor without the extra oil from frying.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy delicious fritters in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite spices or mix in nuts for a unique twist on this classic treat.
- Perfect for Sharing: With eight servings, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family during fall festivities.
- Deliciously Comforting: The combination of warm apples and spices makes these fritters a comforting dessert any time of year.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience effortless, gather the essential tools. These will help ensure your Baked Apple Fritters come out perfectly every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife (for chopping apples)
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even baking of your fritters.
- Silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking without the need for excess oils or sprays.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 Cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 Cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 6 Tablespoons butter (cold and cut into pieces)
- 1/2 Cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apples and Glaze
- 1 Cup chopped apple
- 1 Cup confectioner’s sugar
- 2 Tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat to ensure the fritters do not stick.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
White whole wheat flour
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Allspice
Salt
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Milk
Egg
Vanilla extract
Add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 5: Add Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apple until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheet
Drop spoonfuls (about 1/4 cup each) of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set.
Step 8: Cool Slightly
Remove the fritters from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Turn on your oven’s broiler setting.
Step 9: Prepare Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together:
Confectioner’s sugar
Milk
Vanilla extract
This will create a smooth glaze for topping your fritters.
Step 10: Glaze Fritters
Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter before broiling them for an additional 2–4 minutes until tops are golden brown.
Step 11: Final Glazing
After broiling, brush any remaining glaze over the warm fritters for added sweetness.
Step 12: Serve
Allow the glaze to harden slightly before serving these delicious Baked Apple Fritters warm. Enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple snack or a festive dessert, these fritters can fit the bill. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your fritter experience.
With Warm Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the fritters for an indulgent touch that complements the apple flavor perfectly.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the fritters.
Served with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Pairing these fritters with vanilla ice cream creates a deliciously warm and cold dessert experience that everyone will love.
Sprinkled with Cinnamon Sugar
- A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds extra sweetness and enhances the fall flavors of these fritters.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like pears or berries for a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the fritters.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A drizzle of pure maple syrup brings a rich, sweet element to your serving, making it even more delightful.
How to Perfect Baked Apple Fritters
To ensure your Baked Apple Fritters turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh apples: Choose crisp apples like Jonagold or Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep your fritters light and fluffy.
- Chill the butter: Cold butter helps create those flaky layers, so keep it chilled until you’re ready to mix.
- Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve consistent results in texture and sweetness.
- Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your fritters as they bake; remove them when they are golden brown for the best flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg according to your taste preferences for added depth.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters can be complemented beautifully by several side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with your delicious fritters:
- Crispy Bacon: The saltiness and crunch of bacon create a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the fritters.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds freshness and vibrant color to your plate, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
- Oven-Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crispy potatoes offer a hearty side that pairs nicely with the softness of baked apple fritters.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add sophistication; try sharp cheddar or creamy brie for varied textures.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits will refresh your palate and add natural sweetness alongside the fritters.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a healthy option that complements dessert-like apple fritters well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Baked Apple Fritters can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring the butter temperature: Using warm butter can lead to a dense fritter. Always use cold butter and cut it into small pieces before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in tough fritters. Mix until just combined to maintain a light texture.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and shine. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the flavor of your fritters.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off your recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at too low a temperature can result in soggy fritters. Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked apple fritters in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Baked Apple Fritters
- Freeze fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Apple Fritters
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds for quick warming.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Apple Fritters:
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use any apples you like, but firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Jonagold work best for texture.
Are Baked Apple Fritters healthier than fried versions?
Absolutely! These fritters are baked rather than fried, making them lower in fat while still deliciously sweet.
How can I customize my Baked Apple Fritters?
Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or spices like ginger or cloves for extra flavor!
Can I make these fritters vegan?
Yes! Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and replace the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Apple Fritters are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile! Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weekends, they offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Experiment with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, and enjoy this heartwarming treat with family and friends!
Baked Apple Fritters
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Baked Apple Fritters are the ultimate fall treat, combining the cozy flavors of warm apples and spices in a healthier, baked version of the classic dessert. These delightful fritters are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for sharing with loved ones during autumn gatherings or enjoying as a sweet snack on chilly days. With a light, fluffy texture and a sweet glaze that adds an irresistible finish, these fritters will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether served warm with a drizzle of caramel or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, they offer comfort and joy in every bite. Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 Cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 Cup brown sugar
- 1 Cup chopped apple
- 6 Tablespoons cold butter
- 1/2 Cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla; add to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chopped apple gently.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 11–13 minutes until golden brown; cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Prepare glaze by mixing confectioner's sugar, milk, and vanilla; brush over fritters before broiling for an additional 2–4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter (45g)
- Calories: 156
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 98mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
