These Baked Apple Fritters bring all the cozy flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a deliciously sweet glaze, without the hassle of frying! Perfect for fall mornings or an easy dessert, these fritters are simple to make and bursting with apple flavor.
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apples:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- Sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for a twist)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor if desired. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined; the batter will be thick. Gently fold in the cinnamon-coated apples, being careful not to overmix to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
Step 5: Spoon Batter onto Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop dollops of batter onto the baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Keep the shape slightly irregular for that rustic, bakery-style appearance.
Step 6: Bake the Fritters
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Start checking around 15 minutes to prevent over-baking.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the fritters bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla (or almond extract for a twist) in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to reach your desired glaze consistency.
Step 8: Glaze the Fritters
Allow the fritters to cool for a few minutes after baking. Drizzle the glaze over each fritter while they’re still warm for the glaze to set beautifully. For extra sweetness, add a second layer of glaze once the first layer has set.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy.
- Apple Size: Dice the apples smaller for a softer texture or leave them chunkier if you prefer a heartier bite.
- Glaze Timing: Apply the glaze while the fritters are warm for the perfect set and shine.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: These fritters are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed fritters in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat and glaze before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for similar results. - Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, but any baking apple will work, such as Fuji or Pink Lady. - Can I add nuts?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and pair wonderfully with apples. - What if I don’t have a piping bag for the glaze?
Simply drizzle the glaze with a spoon for a rustic look, or pour the glaze into a zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and use it as a makeshift piping bag. - Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe doubles well if you’re serving a crowd or want to freeze some for later.
These Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier, easier take on the classic fried version, and they don’t skimp on flavor. With a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and a sweet glaze, they’re the ultimate autumn treat.