Baked apple fritters are a delightful twist on the classic fried variety, offering a healthier and equally delicious option. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these fritters are filled with juicy apples and warm spices, and they’re finished with a luscious glaze. Follow this comprehensive guide to bake a batch of mouthwatering apple fritters that will become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 2 cups (240g) flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1 tbsp (12g) baking powder
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 1 tsp (2.5g) cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (115g) cold butter
- 1 1/2 cups (225g) finely diced apples
- 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk
For the Broiled Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp (45ml) milk or apple juice
For the Finishing Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp (30ml) milk
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 3g
- Number of Servings: 12
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the fritters from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Ensure that all the dry ingredients are well combined to evenly distribute the flavors and leavening agents.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add the milk. Mix until well combined. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and blend into the flour mixture until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the fritters tough.
5. Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The apples add a burst of flavor and moisture to the fritters.
6. Shape the Fritters
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to ensure even baking.
7. Bake
Bake the fritters for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Glaze
Allow the fritters to cool on a wire rack. Prepare the broiled glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with milk or apple juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters. For the finishing glaze, mix the powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over the fritters for an added touch of sweetness.
Recipe Variations
Glazed Apple Fritters
For a sweet finish, top your fritters with a simple glaze. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled fritters for a classic touch.
Whole Wheat Apple Fritters
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious fritter. The whole wheat flour adds extra fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.
Apple and Pear Fritters
Mix diced pears with the apples for a delicious variation. Pears add a unique flavor and extra juiciness to the fritters. This combination works especially well with a cinnamon-sugar topping.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Instead of a glaze, you can coat the fritters in cinnamon sugar. Mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Brush the warm fritters with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Fritters
- Use firm apples: Apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, work best in this recipe.
- Chill the dough: For even better results, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the fritters from spreading too much.
- Avoid overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the fritters light and tender.
Conclusion
These baked apple fritters are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples in a soft, tender pastry. Perfect for any time of the day, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters without sacrificing flavor. Try out the variations and find your favorite way to enjoy these delicious treats. Happy baking!
