Baked Apple Fritters are a warm and sweet treat, bursting with soft apples and a touch of cinnamon. They’re much lighter than fried ones but just as tasty!
You can’t beat that golden glaze on top! I always lick my fingers clean after enjoying these—it’s a must! 😋 They make the perfect snack or breakfast when you want something special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for your fritters. For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Granulated sugar: Regular sugar works well, but you could also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
Apples: I recommend using sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. If you need a substitute, try pears or another fruit that bakes well.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: These add moisture and tang. You can swap them with buttermilk or plain yogurt. For a dairy-free version, use almond or coconut yogurt.
Butter: While unsalted is best, you can use melted coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute to make this recipe dairy-free.
What’s the Best Way to Get the Right Texture in My Fritters?
The key to perfect fritters is in the mixing. You want to mix the wet ingredients separately from the dry until just combined. Don’t overmix, as that can make the fritters tough rather than tender. Here’s how to ensure great texture:
- Keep your wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls first.
- Combine them gently. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Make sure to fold in the apples delicately, so they don’t break down.
Following these steps will help you achieve soft and fluffy fritters every time!
Baked Apple Fritters with Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, by the time you have your fritter batter ready, the oven will be just right for baking! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Give it a good whisk to mix everything evenly!
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your fritters.
4. Combine and Fold:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—no need to overmix! Then, fold in the chopped apples until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Scoop onto the Baking Sheet:
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of batter onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart so they have room to puff up while baking.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the fritters bake for 15-18 minutes. They’re done when they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Make the Glaze:
While the fritters are baking, whip up the glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
8. Cool and Glaze:
Once the fritters are out of the oven, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will keep them nice and fluffy! Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm fritters for that delicious finishing touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
These baked apple fritters taste best warm, so dig in and enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a cozy snack anytime!
These baked apple fritters are soft and filled with tender chunks of apple, and the sweet vanilla glaze melts irresistibly over the top. What a delightful treat!
Can I Use Different Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, feel free to use any apple variety you enjoy. Just make sure they’re firm and suitable for baking, like Fuji or Braeburn.
Can I Make the Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bake them the next day for the freshest taste. You can also bake them ahead and reheat them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat them briefly in the microwave or oven to enjoy them warm again!
Can I Freeze the Baked Apple Fritters?
Yes! After baking and cooling, freeze the fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
