Baked apple fritters have been a fall tradition in my family for as long as I can remember. The smell of cinnamon and warm apples baking in the oven instantly transports me back to cozy afternoons at my grandma’s house. She’d always make a fresh batch, and the aroma would fill every corner of the kitchen. Now, I’ve perfected my own easy baked apple fritter recipe, and I can’t wait for you to try it. These aren’t your average fried treats; they’re lighter, wonderfully tender, and packed with that comforting spiced apple flavor you love. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Apple Fritters
Forget the greasy mess of frying! These baked apple fritters are a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore them:
- They’re Healthier: Enjoy that classic apple fritter taste with significantly less fat by baking instead of frying.
- Incredibly Easy: This easy baked apple fritter recipe comes together in a flash, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Cozy Fall Flavors: Packed with warm cinnamon and sweet apples, they capture the essence of autumn.
- Tender & Moist Texture: Unlike tough fried versions, these fritters are wonderfully soft and cake-like.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of what you need in your pantry right now.
- Satisfies Cravings: Get that comforting dessert fix without all the guilt.
- Versatile Glaze: The sweet vanilla glaze perfectly complements the spiced apples.
Ingredients for Baked Apple Fritters
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making delicious baked apple fritters from scratch. I love that most of them are pantry staples! The combination of warm spices and fresh apples is what makes these so special.
For the Fritters
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our tender fritters
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – this helps them rise beautifully
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – essential for that cozy fall flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – adds a warm, subtle spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – for a touch of sweetness in the dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – provides richness and moisture
- 2 large eggs – helps bind everything together
- 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk) – adds moisture for a tender crumb
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples) – I prefer Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a good balance of sweet and tart
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – keeps the apples from browning and adds a hint of brightness
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – the base for our sweet glaze
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (or enough for desired consistency) – to thin the glaze to perfection
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – for a lovely aroma and flavor
How to Make Baked Apple Fritters
Making these delightful baked apple fritters is easier than you might think! Forget the splatter of hot oil; we’re going for a perfectly golden, tender result right from your oven. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying the comforting aroma of spiced apples in no time.
Prepare the Apples
First things first, let’s get our apples ready. Peel, core, and dice about 2 medium apples into bite-sized pieces. I love using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, for the best flavor. Toss the diced apples in a bowl with 1 tablespoon lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a little brightness. Then, sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and an optional tablespoon of sugar. This little step ensures every bite is bursting with apple goodness.
Make the Fritter Batter
Now for the batter! In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Make sure everything is well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until *just* combined. Don’t overmix – a few lumps are perfectly fine! Gently fold in those prepared apples until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze! Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Give them about 2 inches of space because they’ll puff up a bit. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fritters are beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will start smelling absolutely divine!
Prepare the Glaze
While those gorgeous fritters are baking, let’s whip up the glaze. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk, a little at a time, whisking until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. You want it thick enough to coat but thin enough to spread easily.
Glaze and Serve
Once the baked apple fritters are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes. This is important so they don’t fall apart. Then, using a spoon or a piping bag, drizzle that sweet vanilla glaze all over the warm fritters. The glaze will set slightly as they cool. Serve them warm for the ultimate cozy treat, or enjoy them at room temperature!
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Apple Fritters
Want to elevate your baked apple fritters from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will help ensure your fritters are consistently delicious, tender, and perfectly spiced every single time you bake them.
- Using a mix of apple varieties, like tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp, adds complexity to the flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and lead to a more tender fritter.
- Letting the fritters cool slightly before glazing helps the glaze set nicely without melting off.
What’s the secret to perfect baked apple fritters?
The real magic lies in not overmixing the batter and ensuring your apples are coated well with spices before folding them in. This keeps the fritters tender and the apple flavor prominent.
Can I make baked apple fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and chop the apples a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Mix them just before baking for the freshest results. The glaze can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with baked apple fritters?
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this develops gluten and makes fritters tough. Also, ensure your oven is properly preheated to the correct temperature to guarantee even baking and a golden-brown exterior.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Apple Fritters
These delightful baked apple fritters are incredibly versatile and delicious served in so many ways! They’re fantastic on their own, warm from the oven, but I also love pairing them with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. That contrast of warm, spiced fritter with cold, sweet ice cream is pure bliss. Another favorite pairing is a simple cup of hot coffee or tea, perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. For a slightly lighter touch, a dollop of whipped cream or even Greek yogurt works wonderfully to complement the sweet apple flavor.
Variations of Baked Apple Fritters You Can Try
While this easy baked apple fritter recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. These variations let you customize your fritters to suit any preference, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of this comforting treat. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just want to switch things up, there’s a delicious alternative waiting for you.
Gluten-Free Baked Apple Fritters
To make gluten-free baked apple fritters, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, adding a tablespoon more milk if the batter seems too thick. The texture will be wonderfully similar!
Vegan Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Creating a vegan baked apple fritters recipe is easy! Replace the 2 large eggs with a flax egg (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce. For the milk, use your favorite plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Everything else stays the same!
Baked Cinnamon Apple Fritters
For an extra burst of warm spice, I love making these baked cinnamon apple fritters even more cinnamony! Simply increase the cinnamon in the batter to 1.5 teaspoons and add an extra 1/4 teaspoon to the diced apples. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts for Baked Apple Fritters
These lighter versions of classic fritters offer a delightful treat. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (which makes about 12 fritters total):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Your Baked Apple Fritters
Once your delicious baked apple fritters have cooled, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh and tasty. I usually let them sit on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes after glazing. For short-term storage, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay lovely for about 3-4 days this way. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!
To freeze your baked apple fritters, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, reheat them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overheat them!
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Apple Fritters
Are baked apple fritters healthier than fried ones?
Absolutely! By baking your apple fritters instead of frying them, you significantly cut down on the amount of fat and calories. This healthier apple fritter alternative still gives you that delicious, comforting flavor and texture without the greasiness, making them a much lighter choice.
What apples are best for baked apple fritters?
For the most delicious baked cinnamon apple fritters, I recommend using a mix of apples. A good combination is a tart apple like Granny Smith for structure and a sweeter apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji for flavor. This blend creates a wonderful balance of sweet and tart in every bite.
Can I use whole wheat flour for baked apple fritters?
Yes, you certainly can! For a lower calorie baked apple fritters option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds a bit more fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor. Just remember that whole wheat flour can absorb more liquid, so you might need to add an extra tablespoon of milk if the batter seems too thick.
Print
Baked Apple Fritters: Easy, Cozy Fall Treat
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a lighter, healthier version of classic fried fritters with these Baked Apple Fritters. They are filled with warm, spiced apples and finished with a sweet glaze, offering comforting fall flavors.
Ingredients
- For the Fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (or enough for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of sugar (optional). Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.
- Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the fritters are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
- Once the fritters are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use different apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for varied sweetness and texture.
- Consider adding raisins, walnuts, or pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
- Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for additional warmth.
- Pair with coffee, tea, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt.
- Avoid overmixing the batter.
- Ensure apples are peeled and diced evenly.
- Do not skip the glaze.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat before serving.
- For a healthier version, substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour and reduce sugar slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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