Introduction
There’s something truly delightful about the smell of freshly baked apple fritters wafting through your kitchen. These Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier twist on a classic treat, bursting with the sweet, comforting flavors of apples and warm spices. With a light, fluffy texture and a lovely golden color, they make for a perfect breakfast or a lovely afternoon snack. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 fritters
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are nicely incorporated.
- Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix — you want these fritters light and airy!
- Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop generous amounts of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each fritter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fritters are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the fritters to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, if you desire an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve them warm and take a moment to enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors of your homemade baked apple fritters!
Notes or Tips
For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or raisins with the diced apples. If you prefer a touch of glaze, you can whisk together powdered sugar and a little milk to drizzle over the top after baking.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving the perfect baked fritter lies in not overmixing the batter. This ensures that they remain fluffy and tender. Additionally, make sure your apples are chopped into small, even pieces so they bake evenly throughout the fritters.
FAQ
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or even berries could work wonderfully in place of apples. Just be mindful of their moisture content.
How do I store leftover fritters?
Keep any leftover fritters covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen and reheated in the oven.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Fritters are not only a healthier indulgence but also a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their fragrant spices and tender apples, they create fond memories around the table. Perfect for any occasion, you’ll find yourself reaching for these fritters time and time again. Happy baking!