Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Apple fritters are a beloved classic, combining soft dough with the sweet and tart flavor of apples and warm spices. Traditionally deep-fried, they’re a staple in donut shops and a perfect treat for fall. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor, baked apple fritters are the way to go. These fritters are golden, fluffy, and loaded with cinnamon-spiced apples, offering the same indulgence but with far less oil. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, baked apple fritters are a crowd-pleaser.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make delicious baked apple fritters that deliver all the flavors of the original while cutting back on the fat and calories. Let’s dive into the ingredients, instructions, and tips to create the perfect fritters for your fall cravings!

this Recipe

What Are Baked Apple Fritters?

Baked apple fritters are a healthier version of traditional deep-fried apple fritters. They feature a dough filled with chunks of cinnamon-spiced apples and are baked in the oven until golden. After baking, they can be topped with a simple glaze for that classic fritter finish. Baking instead of frying reduces the amount of oil used, making them lighter while still maintaining the delicious flavor and texture that everyone loves.

Ingredients List for Baked Apple Fritters

Here’s what you’ll need to make these baked apple fritters:

For the Fritters:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the dough.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the fritters rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder to give the fritters a light texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the fritters.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – For extra depth of flavor.
• ⅓ cup buttermilk – Adds tanginess and moisture to the batter.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – For richness and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients and gives structure.
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced – Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for the best flavor.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the fritters.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar – For a crunchy and sweet coating.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warm, fall-inspired spice.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze and gives it a smooth texture.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk – Thins out the powdered sugar for a glaze-like consistency.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the glaze.

Substitutions and Variations

Baked apple fritters are versatile and easy to adapt based on dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are some substitution and variation ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum to ensure the proper texture.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice (to replicate the tang of buttermilk). Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter.
• Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg and opt for dairy-free substitutes for the buttermilk and butter.
• Add-Ins: Want to switch things up? You can add ½ cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), raisins, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a different twist.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to increase the cinnamon or add additional spices like allspice or ground cloves for a more spiced fritter.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to make delicious baked apple fritters with a tender interior and a slightly crisp exterior:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Lightly grease the parchment paper or mat to ensure the fritters don’t stick.

2. Prepare the Apples:

• Peel and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces (about ¼-inch cubes). Set the apples aside while you prepare the batter.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.

6. Add the Apples:

• Fold in the diced apples using a spatula. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Drop the Fritters Onto the Baking Sheet:

• Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop about 2-3 tablespoons of batter for each fritter onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon to form a rough, round shape. Leave space between each fritter as they will expand slightly while baking.

8. Bake the Fritters:

• Bake the fritters in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be slightly firm and lightly browned.

9. Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional):

• While the fritters are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter and sprinkle them generously with a cinnamon-sugar mixture (combine ¼ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon). This gives them a bit of extra sweetness and crunch, reminiscent of the fried version.

10. Prepare the Glaze:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle but thick enough to coat the fritters.

11. Glaze the Fritters:

• Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top of each fritter using a spoon or a piping bag with a small tip. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense, tough fritters. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined.
• Not Flattening the Fritters: If you don't flatten the fritters slightly before baking, they may puff up too much and lose the desired shape. Gently press them down before baking for a more uniform look.
• Skipping the Apple Prep: Make sure to dice the apples small enough (about ¼-inch cubes). Larger pieces can make the fritters harder to bake evenly and can affect the texture.
• Not Letting the Fritters Cool Before Glazing: Let the fritters cool slightly before glazing to ensure the glaze sticks and doesn’t melt right off.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Baked Apple Fritters

Baked apple fritters are best served warm, either straight from the oven or after being lightly reheated. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of apple cider for a complete fall-inspired treat.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Apple Fritters

• On a Cake Stand: Stack the fritters on a cake stand or tiered serving tray for a beautiful display.
• In Individual Paper Liners: For a clean presentation, place each fritter in a decorative cupcake liner. This also makes them easier to serve at parties or events.
• Sprinkled with Extra Cinnamon Sugar: For a finishing touch, dust the fritters with a bit more cinnamon sugar before serving.
• With a Side of Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For a more indulgent dessert, serve the fritters with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe Tips

• Best Apples to Use: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balance of flavor. Tart apples add brightness, while sweet apples provide natural sweetness.
• Reheating Tip: To enjoy the fritters warm again, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave them for 15-20 seconds.
• Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze baked apple fritters?

Yes! To freeze, let the fritters cool completely, then wrap each fritter individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw the fritters at room temperature and warm them in the oven before glazing.

What type of apples should I use for apple fritters?

A combination of tart and sweet apples works best for apple fritters. Granny Smith apples provide a tart bite, while Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples add sweetness. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand.

Can I make these fritters without the glaze?

Absolutely! The fritters are delicious on their own or with just the cinnamon sugar coating. The glaze adds extra sweetness, but if you prefer a less sugary option, you can skip it.

How do I keep baked apple fritters from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure the fritters are fully baked and golden before removing them from the oven. Store them in a container with the lid slightly open to allow air circulation, which will help keep them from getting too soft.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. These tender, flavorful fritters are filled with spiced apples and topped with a sweet glaze, making them the perfect fall treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, they are sure to satisfy your autumn cravings. So, get your apples ready and enjoy this tasty and comforting baked treat!

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