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, holiday mornings, or simply a sweet treat after dinner, these fritters will surely impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious fritters in no time.
- Healthier Choice: Baked instead of fried, these fritters offer lower fat content while still being delightful.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh apples creates a warm, comforting flavor that everyone loves.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve these fritters at breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert; they fit right in!
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the kitchen! They will love helping to chop apples and mix the batter.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining your dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately before mixing.
- Whisk: A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly and eliminates lumps for the perfect batter.
- Silicone baking mat: This provides a non-stick surface for easy release of your baked apple fritters without added grease.
- Wire rack: Using a wire rack allows air circulation around the fritters while cooling, preventing sogginess.
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
Additions
- 1 Cup chopped apple
Glaze Ingredients
- 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 prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the following until well combined:
1. All-purpose flour
2. White whole wheat flour
3. Brown sugar
4. Baking powder
5. Cinnamon
6. Nutmeg
7. Allspice
8. Salt
Step 3: Cut in Butter
Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Milk
2. Egg
3. Vanilla extract
Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Apples
Gently stir in chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Portion onto Baking Sheet
Drop spoonfuls of batter (about 1/4 cup each) onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers feel set when lightly pressed.
Step 8: Cool & Broil
Remove fritters to a wire rack and turn your oven setting to broil.
Step 9: Prepare Glaze
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. Confectioner’s sugar
2. Milk
3. Vanilla extract
Step 10: Glaze Fritters
Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter before broiling for an additional 2-4 minutes or until tops are golden.
Step 11: Final Glazing
Once out of the oven, brush remaining glaze over warm fritters.
Step 12: Serve
Allow glaze to harden slightly before serving these delicious baked apple fritters! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these fritters can be served in various ways.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm fritters, adding a rich and cool contrast.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A generous drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds an indulgent touch to your fritters.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream is a perfect topping that complements the warmth of the fritters without overpowering them.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh slices of apples, berries, or bananas can brighten up your plate and add a refreshing element to the dish.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying fritters with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy experience, perfect for chilly mornings or afternoon breaks.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Include these fritters in a brunch spread along with other pastries and fruits for a delightful and diverse offering.
How to Perfect Baked Apple Fritters
To ensure your Baked Apple Fritters turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use cold butter: Chilled butter helps create flaky textures in the fritters. Cut it into the dry ingredients quickly to maintain its coldness.
- Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy. Overmixing can make them dense.
- Choose the right apples: Opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Jonagold for the best flavor and texture in your fritters.
- Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your fritters as baking times may vary based on your oven. They should be golden brown when done.
- Let them cool slightly before glazing: Allowing them to cool helps the glaze stick better and creates an appealing finish.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Apple Fritters
Baked Apple Fritters can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside sweet fritters. -
Greek Yogurt
Creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy element that balances sweetness while adding protein. -
Cinnamon Sugar Toast
Toast spread with butter and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar creates a delightful crunchy sidekick. -
Maple Syrup Oatmeal
A warm bowl of oatmeal flavored with maple syrup complements apple flavors beautifully. -
Sweet Potato Hash
Savory sweet potato hash offers a hearty contrast that pairs well with sweet treats like fritters. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar or brie, adds complexity to your meal when served alongside fritters. -
Spiced Chai Latte
This aromatic drink enhances the cozy vibe when enjoying baked apple fritters on cooler days. -
Nutty Granola Bars
Homemade granola bars offer healthy crunchiness that can balance out the sweetness of the fritters.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Apple Fritters, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Using warm butter: If you use warm butter instead of cold, your fritters may become greasy. Always ensure the butter is cold and cut into pieces before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough fritters. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze enhances flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to a delicious finish!
- Not preheating the oven: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your fritters. Always preheat your oven to 400°F for even cooking.
- Ignoring apple variety: Different apples have varying sweetness and texture. Choose firm apples like Jonagold for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Apple Fritters
- Place fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Apple Fritters
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one fritter at a time for 15-20 seconds, but this may make them soggy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Apple Fritters that might help you achieve perfection.
Can I use other fruits in Baked Apple Fritters?
Yes, you can substitute or add fruits like pears or blueberries for variety!
How do I know when my fritters are done?
Fritters are ready when they turn golden brown on the bottom and feel set in the center.
Can I make Baked Apple Fritters gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
What should I serve with Baked Apple Fritters?
These fritters pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
Baked Apple Fritters are not only simple to make but also versatile and delightful. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at breakfast or as a dessert. Feel free to customize with different fruits or spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy flavors of fall!
Baked Apple Fritters
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 fritters 1x
Description
Baked Apple Fritters are your new go-to fall treat, combining the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and fresh apples without the guilt of frying. These delightful pastries are easier to make than traditional fritters, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet breakfast option. With a soft texture and a light glaze, they’re sure to impress family and friends all season long. Whether served warm with ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce, these fritters promise to be an instant hit at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped apple
- 1 cup confectioner's sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flours, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla. Combine with dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in chopped apples gently.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 11-13 minutes until golden.
- Cool on a wire rack before glazing with a mixture of confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter (50g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
