Indulge in the comforting flavors of traditional apple fritters with a healthier twist. These baked apple fritters are loaded with juicy apple chunks, warm spices, and a light sweetness that makes them the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. By baking instead of frying, you enjoy all the flavor with less guilt.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1–2 tbsp milk or water (for glaze)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fritters dense.
- Toss the diced apples with lemon juice in a small bowl to prevent browning and distribute them evenly. Fold the apple pieces into the batter.
- Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the fritters are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk or water, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency with more liquid if needed.
- Once the fritters are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters, allowing it to set for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your baked apple fritters with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
These baked apple fritters combine the nostalgia of a classic treat with a modern, health-conscious approach. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.