These Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier twist on a classic treat, filled with fresh apples, cinnamon, and drizzled with a sweet glaze—perfect for breakfast or dessert!

Introduction:

Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect way to enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of fall without the hassle of frying. Traditionally deep-fried, apple fritters are a beloved pastry found in bakeries everywhere. This lighter, baked version gives you all the flavor and texture of the original with less guilt. Filled with chunks of fresh apples and spiced with cinnamon, these fritters are soft and slightly crisp around the edges, thanks to baking them in the oven. Drizzled with a sweet glaze, they are the ideal pairing for your morning coffee or as a comforting dessert. Not only are these baked fritters easy to make, but they’re also a crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of autumn to any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Fritters:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough fritters.
5. Add Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Shape the Fritters: Drop large spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into rough rounds. Leave some space between each fritter, as they will spread slightly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer the fritters to a wire rack to cool.
8. Make the Glaze: While the fritters are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
9. Glaze the Fritters: Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip the tops directly into the glaze for a thicker coating. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

How to Prepare:

• Apples: Use a tart variety like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the glaze. Dice the apples small enough to ensure even distribution in the batter.
• Batter: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the fritters light and fluffy. The batter should be thick but spoonable.
• Glazing: For a more decadent treat, you can double-dip the fritters in the glaze once the first layer has set.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings:

• Yields: 10-12 fritters

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of fruit?

• Yes! You can substitute pears or peaches for apples, or mix in a combination of your favorite fruits for a unique twist.

2. Can I make the fritters ahead of time?

• These fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.

3. Can I make these fritters without the glaze?

• Absolutely! If you want to skip the glaze, the fritters will still be delicious. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.

4. Can I freeze these fritters?

• Yes! Let the fritters cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven.

5. What kind of apples work best for fritters?

• Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well because they hold their shape during baking and offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Conclusion:

These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence, without the extra calories from frying. The warm spices and chunks of fresh apples make them a delightful treat for fall, but they’re so easy to make that you’ll want to bake them year-round. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or saved for a next-day snack, these fritters are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the natural flavors of the apples, making this a go-to recipe for any occasion. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy a delicious homemade fritter today!