Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier twist on the traditional deep-fried version, offering all the same delicious flavors but with less oil and a lighter texture. These fritters are filled with fresh, juicy apples, warm spices, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, these fritters are easy to make and will satisfy any sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this simple and tasty recipe!

Introduction

Apple fritters are a classic treat that typically involves deep-frying dough packed with apple chunks and cinnamon. While delicious, they can be heavy and oily. This baked version lightens things up while still delivering the same tender, flavorful bites. By baking instead of frying, you’ll reduce calories and avoid the mess, making these fritters a go-to for any occasion. They are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, with bits of apple in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
2. In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and set them aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). This forms the base of your fritter dough.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

1. Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape the Fritters

1. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Shape them slightly to form small mounds (they don’t have to be perfect!).

Step 7: Bake the Fritters

1. Bake the fritters in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Optional Glaze

1. While the fritters are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
2. Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or piping bag for a more finished look.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

1. Dust the baked apple fritters with powdered sugar before serving.
2. Serve warm for the best flavor, though they’re also delicious at room temperature.

Cooking Note:

• For a crispier exterior, you can lightly brush the tops of the fritters with melted butter before baking.
• If you prefer a chunkier fritter, use larger pieces of diced apple.

Serving Suggestions:

Baked Apple Fritters are perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Serve them as a breakfast pastry, a brunch treat, or even as a dessert. For extra indulgence, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips:

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavor, but any firm apple variety will work.
• If you’re a fan of nuts, you can add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a little extra crunch.
• These fritters store well in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy warm.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 12-15 minutes

Total Time:

• 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 190mg

Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
2. In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and set them aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). This forms the base of your fritter dough.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

1. Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape the Fritters

1. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Shape them slightly to form small mounds (they don’t have to be perfect!).

Step 7: Bake the Fritters

1. Bake the fritters in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Optional Glaze

1. While the fritters are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
2. Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or piping bag for a more finished look.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

1. Dust the baked apple fritters with powdered sugar before serving.
2. Serve warm for the best flavor, though they’re also delicious at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 180
• Sodium: 190mg
• Protein: 4g