Apple Fritter Bites with Apple Cider Glaze

These Apple Fritter Bites are a delightful, bite-sized take on the classic apple fritter, with warm cinnamon flavor, chunks of fresh apple, and a sweet apple cider glaze. They’re perfect for fall gatherings, quick snacks, or even breakfast treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Bursting with Apple Flavor: Made with fresh apples, applesauce, and an apple cider glaze.
• Perfectly Portable: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy fall treat at home.
• Kid-Friendly: These mini bites are fun and easy for little hands to enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Apple Fritter Bites:

• Nonstick cooking spray (for greasing the muffin tin)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 1/2 cups finely diced Honeycrisp or Gala apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the Apple Cider Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp apple cider or juice

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine and Add Apples:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
5. Fill and Bake:
   • Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a bite comes out clean.
6. Make the Glaze:
   • While the bites cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar and apple cider in a bowl until smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Dip and Set:
   • Dip each warm apple fritter bite into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Place the glazed bites on a cooling rack to let the glaze set.
8. Enjoy:
   • Serve these warm or at room temperature for a delicious burst of apple and cinnamon flavor in every bite!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mini muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Cooling rack

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These bites are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To extend freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: For that fresh-from-the-oven taste, warm up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Recipe Variations

• Caramel Glaze: Swap the apple cider glaze for a simple caramel drizzle for a rich, caramel apple flavor.
• Add Nuts: Fold 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a crunchy twist.
• Spiced Cider Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for extra warmth.

Helpful Notes

• Choose Your Apples: Honeycrisp or Gala apples are great for baking, as they hold their shape and provide a sweet, juicy flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep the bites light and fluffy.
• Glazing Tips: Dip the bites while they’re still slightly warm so the glaze adheres well and sets beautifully.

Tips from Bakers

• Chef Martha Stewart: “Grate a bit of fresh nutmeg into the batter for an extra layer of warmth that pairs perfectly with apples and cinnamon.”
• Chef Sally McKenney: “For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar to the apple cider glaze until you reach your desired consistency.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these without a mini muffin tin?
Yes, you can use a regular muffin tin, but increase the baking time by 5-7 minutes and fill each cup about halfway.

Q2: Can I use regular applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, just reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

Q3: What if I don’t have apple cider?
Apple juice can be used as a substitute for the glaze.

Q4: Can I freeze these?
Yes, freeze them without glaze in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving for best results.

Q5: Can I make the glaze thicker?
To make a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Enjoy These Apple Fritter Bites!

With their tender, cinnamon-spiced texture and apple-packed flavor, these Apple Fritter Bites are a wonderful autumn treat that’s easy to make and share. Try them with a cup of coffee or cider for the perfect cozy snack. Enjoy the taste of fresh apple fritters in convenient, bite-sized form!

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