Baked Apple Fritters

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Baked apple fritters drizzled with sweet glaze and topped with chopped apples

Deliciously Easy Baked Apple Fritters: A Tasty Twist on a Classic Treat

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of baked apples wafting through your home, and these baked apple fritters are no exception. Perfectly fluffy and bursting with sweet, tender apple chunks, this recipe is quickly becoming a favorite. Not only are they easier and healthier than fried fritters, but they also offer a delightful balance of spice and sweetness that makes them perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, they come together in just under half an hour!

What You’ll Need for Baked Apple Fritters

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or almond milk)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced into small chunks
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Honey or maple syrup for drizzling
  • Optional: Sprinkle of lemon juice to prevent browning
  • Optional: Cinnamon sugar sprinkle for extra sweetness

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, beat the egg. Then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth.
  4. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
  5. Fold in the diced apple chunks, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of the batter onto your prepared baking sheet. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of a spoon to ensure even baking.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown. You can check to see if they’re done by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
  8. Let the fritters cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  9. Dust generously with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey or maple syrup. For an extra treat, you can toss them in cinnamon sugar for added crunch.

Why This Baked Apple Fritters Recipe Is So Popular Right Now

With the cozy season upon us, baked treats are trending as people look for comforting ways to enjoy fall flavors. These baked apple fritters not only evoke a sense of nostalgia for those classic carnival treats, but they also offer a healthier, oven-baked twist. As more people become health-conscious, this recipe allows you to indulge in something sweet without the guilt. Plus, they’re super easy to share with friends or family—a true crowd-pleaser!

Best Ways to Serve It

These baked apple fritters are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast. They also make a fantastic snack or dessert option, especially when drizzled with honey or maple syrup. For a fun twist, you could pair them with some vanilla ice cream for an irresistible sundae. Don’t forget to dust them with powdered sugar just before serving for that perfect finishing touch!

Helpful Tricks

  • Storage Tips: Keep any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to prolong their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
  • Flavor Variations: Try adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of raisins to the batter for an added texture.
  • Dietary Swaps: If you need a dairy-free version, simply use almond milk and coconut oil as mentioned in the ingredients.

Baked Apple Fritters FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it’s best to make the batter fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just add the wet ingredients when you’re ready to bake.

What apples work best in this recipe?
Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, but you can also experiment with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter twist.

How do I keep my fritters from browning?
If you’re not using the apple chunks immediately, a quick sprinkle of lemon juice can help prevent browning.

Can I freeze baked apple fritters?
Absolutely! Just let them cool down completely, then store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw and warm them up when you’re ready to enjoy!

Give these baked apple fritters a try—they’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the warm memories they bring!