There’s nothing quite like the aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through your home, especially on a chilly day. These Baked Apple Fritters will make you and your loved ones feel as cozy as a blanket on a cold day. Rooted in American heritage, these bite-sized treats offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters while still celebrating our national fruit: apples. Without the added oil from frying, these fritters are the ideal combination of comfort and convenience, and I’ve met many families who love the idea of apple sweets. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a sweet treat to round out Sunday supper, these Baked Apple Fritters will bring a smile to your face and a warm aroma of cinnamon and apples into your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Families: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these bite-sized treats.
- Health-conscious individuals: By baking instead of frying, these fritters cut down on unnecessary oil and calories.
- Apple lovers: Celebrate the delicious taste of apples with this classic recipe.
- Party hosts: Impress your guests with a delightful and cozy dessert that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the apples: Toss the diced apples with lemon juice in a bowl and set aside.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the batter.
- Scoop the batter: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush with butter: Lightly brush the tops of the fritters with melted butter.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the fritters to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding raisins, chopped nuts, or a handful of oats to the batter.
- Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweeter finish.
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste; try adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a different flavor profile.
- Apples: Use your favorite variety of apples. Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples offer a sweeter taste.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Pastry brush
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes or microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Though delicious on its own, Baked Apple Fritters are taken to the next level with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more mild flavor, serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a touch of honey. Finally, nothing says “cozy dessert” like finishing off the meal with a hot cup of coffee or cider.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the batter ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before scooping onto the baking sheet.
- Can I freeze these fritters?
- Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, place the fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- What can I use as a substitute for apples?
- Pears or peaches can be a delicious alternative to apples. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit used.
- How do I prevent the fritters from becoming soggy?
- Ensure the fritters cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents moisture from building up and keeps them from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect way to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a treat that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and healthy dessert ideas. Enjoy baking and happy eating!