Baked apple fritters are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried fritters. These soft, cinnamon-spiced pastries are packed with fresh apples and drizzled with a sweet glaze for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. They’re easy to make, require no frying, and are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. If you love apple desserts but want a lighter option, these baked apple fritters are a must-try.
How to Make this Recipe
The process of making baked apple fritters is simple. First, a dough or batter is prepared with diced apples, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. The dough is shaped into small mounds and baked until golden brown. A light vanilla glaze is then drizzled on top for a touch of sweetness. The result is a soft, moist fritter bursting with apple and cinnamon flavor—without the excess oil from frying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups diced apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and dice the apples into small chunks. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples gently.
- Bake the Fritters: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop spoonfuls of the batter onto the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Sprinkle it with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter option.
- Enjoy with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Add chopped nuts on top for a crunchy texture.
Tips and Variations
- Use Different Apples: Try a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.
- Make It Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Serving Size: Makes about 10 fritters
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
Ingredient Substitutes
- Flour: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar: Swap with coconut sugar or honey for a natural sweetener.
- Butter: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
- Milk: Replace with almond, oat, or soy milk if needed.
- Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these apple fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze baked apple fritters?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
Why are my fritters dense?
Over Mixing the batter can make them dense. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
Can I add raisins or nuts?
Absolutely! Add ¼ cup of raisins or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make these without glaze?
Yes, they taste great plain or dusted with powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Baked apple fritters are a delicious, healthier take on a classic apple pastry. With warm cinnamon flavors, juicy apples, and a light glaze, these fritters make a perfect breakfast or dessert. They are easy to make, require no frying, and can be customized to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a guilt-free apple treat.
Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Apples
Peel and dice the apples into small chunks. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Bake the Fritters
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop spoonfuls of the batter onto the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
