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 dessert or as a sweet treat at brunch, these fritters are sure to impress your family and friends with their delightful flavor and appealing presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these fritters can be whipped up in no time.
• Healthier Alternative: Unlike traditional fried apple fritters, this baked version cuts down on oil while keeping all the flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm straight from the oven or glazed for an added touch of sweetness. They also pair well with coffee or tea!
• Perfect for Fall: The warm spices and fresh apples make these fritters an ideal treat as the weather cools down.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden tops and glossy glaze make these fritters look gourmet, perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even baking of the fritters.
• Silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Baked Apple Fritters:

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

Add-Ins

• 1 Cup chopped apple

For Glaze

• 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: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt until combined.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Add the cold butter pieces into the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Step 5: Add Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apple until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Form Fritters

Drop spoonfuls of batter (about 1/4 cup each) onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them out evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 11-13 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown and centers are set.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack. Turn your oven to broil setting.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

In a separate bowl, whisk together confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze Fritters

Brush a thin layer of glaze over each fritter. Broil for 2-4 minutes until tops are golden.

Step 11: Final Glazing

Once removed from broiler, brush any remaining glaze over warm fritters for an extra sweet touch.

Step 12: Serve

Allow glaze to harden slightly before serving these delightful Baked Apple Fritters warm!

Enjoy your homemade Baked Apple Fritters as a sweet addition to gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home!

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters

Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them for breakfast or as a sweet snack, these fritters are versatile and sure to impress.

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Sprinkle a light coating of powdered sugar on top for a simple yet elegant finish.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a warm caramel drizzle over the fritters for an indulgent treat that enhances their flavors.

Served with Ice Cream

• Pair these fritters with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve with slices of fresh apple or berries to add a refreshing touch to your dessert table.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these fritters alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include Baked Apple Fritters in your brunch lineup, paired with other pastries and seasonal fruits for variety.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Baked Apple Fritters

To ensure your Baked Apple Fritters turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Butter: Incorporating cold butter helps create a flaky texture, making the fritters light and airy.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the fritters tough instead of tender.
• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet-tart varieties like Jonagold or Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; remove them when they are golden brown and set in the center.
• Glaze While Warm: Brush the glaze on while the fritters are still warm for better adherence and enhanced flavor.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Apple Fritters

Baked Apple Fritters can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar for a complementary side that echoes the flavors in the fritters.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast that balances sweetness.
3. Maple Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of bacon pairs wonderfully with sweet fritters, making it an enticing combination.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: These rich bars provide another layer of sweetness that goes well with apple flavors.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or sharp cheddar, offers a savory counterpoint to the sweet fritters.
6. Spiced Chai Latte: A warm chai latte infused with spices creates a cozy drink pairing perfect for fall gatherings.
7. Pumpkin Muffins: These muffins bring in more autumnal flavors, creating an inviting spread that’s ideal for brunch.
8. Roasted Nuts: Seasoned nuts add crunch and depth, making them an excellent snack alongside your fritters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Apple Fritters, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect flour measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture of your fritters. Always measure flour using the spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Not chopping apples properly: Large apple chunks can lead to uneven baking. Make sure to chop your apples into small, even pieces for consistent flavor and texture.
• Skipping the butter cutting step: If you don’t cut in the butter well, your fritters may not be flaky. Ensure the butter is cold and cut it into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in dense fritters. Stir until just combined when adding wet ingredients to maintain fluffiness.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your fritters as they bake and adjust the time if needed to avoid undercooking or burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Apple Fritters

• Place fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Apple Fritters

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat fritters on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Apple Fritters:

Can I use other types of apples for Baked Apple Fritters?

You can use any sweet apple variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Each type will slightly change the flavor profile, but all are delicious!

How do I make these Baked Apple Fritters gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works well. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my Baked Apple Fritters?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or raisins can enhance flavor and texture. Just be mindful of not adding too much so it doesn’t overwhelm the batter.

What is the best way to serve Baked Apple Fritters?

These fritters are delightful when served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzled with glaze. Pair them with ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Final Thoughts

Baked Apple Fritters are an irresistible fall treat that combines sweetness with warmth. Their healthier baked version makes them perfect for any occasion, from cozy weekends to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize these fritters by adding spices, nuts, or even switching up the glaze. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to fall in love!