There’s nothing quite like the warm, cozy comfort of Rustic Baked Apple Fritters. These delicious treats are packed with juicy apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness, but baked instead of fried—making them a lighter alternative to the classic version. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, these apple fritters will become a family favorite in no time!
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Why You’ll Love These Rustic Baked Apple Fritters
- Healthier Twist: These fritters are baked, not fried, so they’re lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Full of Apple Flavor: Each bite is bursting with soft, cinnamon-spiced apples.
- Simple and Quick: Made with basic pantry ingredients, these fritters are easy to whip up any day of the week.
Ingredients for Rustic Baked Apple Fritters
For the Fritters:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
For the Glaze (optional but recommended):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet: For baking the fritters.
- Mixing bowls: To mix the batter and glaze.
- Whisk: For combining ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula: To fold in the apples.
- Ice cream scoop or large spoon: For portioning the batter.
How to Make Rustic Baked Apple Fritters
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter using a spatula, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Scoop the Fritters
Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the fritters for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters for a sweet finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
- These fritters are delicious served warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze.
Tips for the Best Rustic Baked Apple Fritters
- Don’t Overmix: To keep your fritters light and fluffy, mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Tart Apples: For the best flavor, opt for tart apples like Granny Smith, which balance the sweetness of the batter and glaze.
- Double the Glaze: If you’re a glaze lover, feel free to double the recipe and coat the fritters generously!
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store the fritters in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just warm them slightly before serving.
- Freezing: These fritters freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a freshly baked feel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Q2: Can I make these fritters without the glaze?
Of course! They’re delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a lovely sweetness. You can also dust them with powdered sugar instead.
Q3: Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Try using pears or peaches in place of apples for a fun twist on this recipe.
Conclusion: Cozy, Sweet, and Oh-So-Satisfying!
These Rustic Baked Apple Fritters offer all the flavor of traditional apple fritters with the bonus of being baked, not fried. Soft, cinnamon-spiced, and finished with a sweet glaze, they’re a perfect treat for any time of day.
Did you make this recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag us!
Nutritional Information (per fritter)
Calories: 180
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy these delightful fritters with friends and family, and savor every bite of apple-filled goodness!
