Here’s a Baked Apple Fritters recipe inspired by the link you shared—a healthier, oven-baked version of the classic fried treat! These fritters are tender, spiced with cinnamon, and packed with juicy apples, all finished with a sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Introduction
These Baked Apple Fritters are a lighter take on the traditional fried version, combining sweet apples, warm spices, and a fluffy baked dough. Topped with a simple glaze, they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for satisfying your apple-cinnamon cravings without the guilt!
Ingredients (Makes 8–10 fritters)
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or apple cider
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional:
- Cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon) for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in diced apples.
- Shape and Bake:
- Drop ¼-cup portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Glaze or Coat:
- Glaze Option: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled fritters.
- Cinnamon Sugar Option: While warm, brush fritters with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.
Tips for Success
- Apple Prep: Pat diced apples dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined for tender fritters.
- Add-Ins: Toss in chopped nuts, raisins, or a pinch of cardamom for extra flavor.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
- Healthier: No oil immersion = fewer calories and less grease.
- Easier: Minimal mess and hands-off baking.
- Kid-Friendly: Great for little helpers to shape and glaze!
Nutritional Info (per fritter, with glaze)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 4g
- Carbs: 35g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Fritters are a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s simple enough for weekday mornings and special enough for weekend brunch. Serve them warm with coffee or as a sweet afternoon snack—either way, they’ll disappear fast!