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Baked Apple Fritters

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 31 minutes
Course Dessert, Side Dish, Snack
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Fritters:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the fritters giving them their characteristic texture. Use unbleached flour for best results.
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the overall tenderness of the fritters.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder – The leavening agent that helps the fritters rise creating a light and fluffy texture. Be sure to use fresh baking powder for optimal results.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients creating a balanced sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm comforting spice that perfectly complements the apples. Use high-quality cinnamon for a richer flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle depth of flavor and warmth to the fritters. Freshly grated nutmeg is ideal but ground nutmeg will also work well.
  • 2 large eggs – Binds the batter together and adds moisture richness, and structure.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk – Adds moisture and helps to create a tender crumb. You can also use buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a fragrant aroma. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted – Adds richness and moisture, contributing to the tender texture of the fritters.
  • 1 1/2 cups diced apples – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their tart-sweet flavor and firm texture. You can also use other varieties of apples such as Fuji or Gala.
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar – The perfect base for a smooth sweet glaze. Sift the powdered sugar before using to ensure a lump-free glaze.
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk – Used to adjust the consistency of the glaze. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more as needed until you reach the desired thickness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the glaze and enhances its sweetness.

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the optimal temperature for baking the fritters to ensure they are cooked through without burning on the outside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the fritters from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup a breeze. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray or butter.
  • Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisking ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a consistent texture in the final product. Be sure to break up any lumps in the flour or sugar to prevent them from clumping in the batter.
  • Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
  • In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. Whisking thoroughly ensures that the wet ingredients are fully combined and emulsified. This creates a smooth, homogeneous mixture that will incorporate easily into the dry ingredients. Make sure the butter is cooled slightly before adding it to the eggs to prevent them from cooking.
  • Step 4: Make the Batter
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. It's important not to overmix the batter, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough fritters. Mix until the dry ingredients are moistened, but small lumps are still okay. Gently fold in the diced apples, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can crush the apples and release too much moisture into the batter.
  • Step 5: Shape and Bake
  • Scoop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows the fritters to spread slightly during baking without touching each other. Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to portion the batter evenly. Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the fritters. Once they are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean, they are ready. Let the fritters cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
  • While the fritters are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the fritters but thin enough to drizzle easily.
  • Step 7: Glaze the Fritters
  • Once the fritters have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can also dip the tops of the fritters into the glaze. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.