Name: Baked Apple Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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.; 1/2 cup whole milk.; 2 large eggs.; 1 tsp vanilla extract.; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted.; 2 cups peeled and chopped apples.; 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed.; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze).; 2-3 tbsp milk (for glaze).; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze).

Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier twist on the classic deep-fried treat, making them perfect for a cozy fall dessert. These fritters are packed with juicy apples and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, offering the familiar flavors of apple pie in a lighter, baked form. The fritters are quick and easy to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. After baking, they are drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze, making them a delicious treat to enjoy warm or at room temperature. Perfect for serving with a cup of coffee or tea on a crisp fall day.

Baked Apple Fritters bring the warmth and coziness of fall into a delicious, healthier treat. By baking instead of frying, these fritters offer all the flavor with less guilt. Filled with juicy apple chunks and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, they’re perfect for a chilly autumn afternoon.

INGREDIENTS

All-purpose flour: 2 cups, the base for the fritters
Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, adds sweetness to the dough
Baking powder: 2 tsp, helps the fritters rise
Salt: 1/2 tsp, balances the flavors
Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp, for warm, cozy spice
Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp, adds depth and warmth
Whole milk: 1/2 cup, adds richness to the batter
Eggs: 2 large, helps bind the ingredients together
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for extra flavor
Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp melted, adds moisture and flavor
Apples: 2 cups peeled and chopped, providing the fruity, sweet filling
Light brown sugar: 1/4 cup, for added sweetness with a hint of caramel

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 3:: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
Step 4:: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Step 5:: Gently fold in the chopped apples and brown sugar.
Step 6:: Drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming round fritters.
Step 7:: Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
Step 8:: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 9:: Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

These fritters are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a warm oven for a freshly baked feel.

Helpful Notes

You can use any type of apple, but tart varieties like Granny Smith work well to balance the sweetness.
If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of glaze or skip it entirely.