These baked apple fritters are a sweet treat bursting with apple goodness and a yummy glaze on top. They’re soft on the inside and a bit crispy on the outside—just perfect!
Making these fritters is so much fun! I love watching them puff up in the oven. Plus, who can resist that lovely glaze? They disappear fast around here—everyone wants a taste! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith or Fuji apples work great for these fritters. Their sweetness and tartness balance well with the glaze. If you have Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious, those are tasty alternatives too!
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour is fantastic here. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve done this before, and the fritters still come out fluffy!
Milk: Whole milk will give you the best flavor and texture, but you can also use almond milk or any plant-based milk if needed. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the balance right.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter—just melt it before using.
What’s the Best Way to Fold in Apples Without Overmixing?
Folding in apples is an important step; doing it gently is key! Here’s how:
- Once your batter is mixed, sprinkle the diced apples over the top.
- Use a spatula to scoop from the bottom and fold it over the apples. Turn the bowl as you go, making sure the apples are covered without smashing the batter.
- This helps keep the fritters light and fluffy.
Remember, it’s okay if some apples poke through! They’ll still cook well and add a delightful texture to your fritters.
Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced into small pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. After baking, let them cool for a few minutes before adding the glaze. Total time is around 30-35 minutes. Quick and simple for a delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, you need to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential for crispy, golden fritters! While that’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This combination will give your fritters a delightful flavor and texture.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate medium bowl, mix the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Use a whisk or a fork to blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined. It’s okay if the batter is still a little thick—don’t overmix, or your fritters may turn out dense!
5. Add the Apples:
Carefully fold in the diced apples. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without smashing the pieces!
6. Scoop and Bake:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart because they will puff up as they bake. Then, pop them in the oven!
7. Bake Away:
Bake them for 15-18 minutes or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll be eager to taste them!
8. Prepare the Glaze:
While the fritters are baking, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more if you want a thinner glaze.
9. Cool and Glaze:
Once the fritters are done, let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, drizzle the glaze generously over the warm fritters while they are still slightly warm for the best flavor!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve them warm and enjoy every bite! These fritters are great for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. They also make for a lovely treat to share with friends and family. Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Apple?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are perfect for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp, Gala, or even Braeburn apples for different flavors and textures!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to enjoy them again.
Can I Make These Fritters Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter in place of the unsalted butter. They’ll still taste delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Fritters are Light and Fluffy?
The key is to avoid overmixing your batter after adding the wet ingredients to the dry. Mix just until combined and gently fold in the apples to keep the batter airy. A light touch goes a long way!
