Description
These Warm Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier twist on the classic fried treat, featuring tender diced apples baked into a spiced batter. Perfectly golden and lightly crisp on the outside, they deliver a warm, comforting flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, making them an ideal snack or dessert that pairs wonderfully with maple syrup, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups diced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your batter is mixed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until thoroughly combined to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agent.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture slowly into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined; the batter should remain slightly lumpy for a light texture.
- Add Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, making sure they are evenly distributed without overmixing to avoid tough fritters.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking during baking.
- Scoop the Batter: Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each fritter to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the fritters turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the fritters cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enhance with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit salad for a delightful experience.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with warm maple syrup for dipping, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or alongside a fresh fruit salad. Warm apple cider or freshly squeezed lemonade make excellent beverage pairings.
- Apple Selection Tips: Use apple varieties that maintain their shape when baked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture and flavor.
- Mixing Tips: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep it light and fluffy; a few lumps are desirable.
- Spice Adjustments: Customize the spicing by adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to suit your taste preferences.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh. For longer storage, freeze the fritters on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best texture.
- Enjoy: Gather your ingredients and enjoy these warm, comforting baked apple fritters anytime you crave a sweet treat with a hint of spice.
Notes
- Choose apple varieties that hold up well to baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture.
- Do not overmix the batter; it should remain slightly lumpy to ensure fluffier fritters.
- Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your personal taste or add other warm spices like ginger or allspice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat refrigerated fritters in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or directly from frozen for best results.
- Serve with maple syrup, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit salad for enhanced flavor.
