Baked Apple Fritters have always been a delightful treat in my household, especially during the crisp fall season when apples are at their best. This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings at my grandmother’s house, where the smell of freshly baked goods filled the air and signaled that a special moment was about to unfold. My grandmother used to make a batch of fritters whenever we visited, and it became a tradition that I cherished deeply.
This version of Baked Apple Fritters is a nod to those sweet memories but with a modern twist. Instead of frying, which can be a bit messy and not the healthiest option, these fritters are baked to perfection. The result is a batch of fritters that are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with the comforting flavors of apples and warm spices. I particularly enjoy the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, which gives these fritters a rich, aromatic depth.
One thing I love about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out the apples for other fruits like pears or even mix in some cranberries for a tart contrast. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkling of oats can add an extra layer of texture and flavor. For those who prefer a less sweet treat, reducing the amount of brown sugar or using a sugar substitute works just as well.
Baking instead of frying also means these fritters are lighter and less greasy, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option. The glaze, made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, adds a beautiful finishing touch, making these fritters not only taste delicious but also look quite impressive. It’s a recipe that’s straightforward enough for everyday baking but special enough for weekend brunches or family gatherings.
So whether you’re looking to recreate a piece of nostalgic comfort or simply want to enjoy a tasty and healthier version of a classic treat, these Baked Apple Fritters are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your kitchen. Happy baking!
Making Baked Apple Fritters
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup white whole wheat flour
- 6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup chopped apple
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Directions
- Set your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Add the cold butter and blend until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped apple.
- Drop batter onto the prepared baking sheet using a 1/4 cup measuring cup for large fritters or a heaping tablespoon for smaller fritters.
- Bake for 11 to 13 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set. For smaller fritters, begin checking at 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and set to broil.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Brush a layer of glaze over each fritter.
- Place the fritters under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes, until the tops are golden and the glaze starts to bubble.
- Transfer the fritters to a wire rack and brush with the remaining glaze while still warm.
- Let the glaze set before serving. These fritters are best enjoyed the same day they are made.
Storing Suggestions:
Store the baked apple fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their freshness.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of flour like whole wheat or a gluten-free blend. However, the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
What kind of apples are best for these fritters?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well because they hold their shape and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
How do I prevent the fritters from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is very cold when you blend it into the dry ingredients. This helps the fritters hold their shape during baking.
Can I make the fritters ahead of time?
While these fritters are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
Why did my glaze turn out too runny?
If your glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk.
What can I use instead of a broiler if I don’t have one?
If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the fritters at a higher temperature for a shorter period to achieve a similar effect. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Baked Apple Fritters
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped apple
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Add the cold butter and blend it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped apple.
- Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet. For smaller fritters, use a heaping tablespoon of batter.
- Bake for 11 to 13 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and the centers are set. For smaller fritters, start checking at 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and switch to broil mode.
- While the oven heats for broiling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Brush a layer of glaze over each fritter.
- Place the fritters under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes, until the tops are golden and the glaze starts to bubble.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the fritters to a wire rack. Brush the remaining glaze over the fritters while they are still warm.
- Allow the glaze to set before serving. These apple fritters are best enjoyed on the same day they are made.
