Are you craving a delicious treat that combines the sweetness of apples with a hint of cinnamon? Look no further! This baked apple fritters recipe is not only easy to make but also a healthier option compared to traditional fried fritters. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful center, these fritters are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or as a delightful dessert. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 fritters. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 fritter) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 5g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Cholesterol: 25mg
– Sodium: 120mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 24g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 8g
– Protein: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one fritter.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugars.
- In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Space the fritters about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
- Enjoy warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with icing if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut oil instead of milk and butter.
Serving and Pairings
Baked apple fritters are best served warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, making them a great treat for brunch or dessert.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. These fritters can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to tough fritters; mix just until combined.
- Skipping the parchment paper can cause sticking; always line your baking sheet.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Using too many apples can make the fritters soggy; stick to the recommended amount.
- Letting the fritters cool completely on the baking sheet can make them soggy.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the fritters right after baking for added sweetness.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavor profiles.
- For a festive twist, add nutmeg or cardamom to the batter.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to mix the batter just before baking for the best texture. If needed, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them until ready to use.
What type of apples work best for fritters?
For the best flavor and texture, use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold up well during baking.
Can I bake these fritters in advance?
Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them. Just reheat before serving for the best taste.
How can I make these fritters healthier?
You can reduce the sugar, use whole wheat flour, or substitute applesauce for some of the butter to make this recipe healthier.
What can I use instead of eggs?
For an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Conclusion
Baked apple fritters are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fried versions. With their sweet apple flavor and warm spices, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and sure to please, these fritters will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or warmed up later for a delicious snack!
Baked Apple Fritters
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups apples peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugars.
- In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Space the fritters about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
- Enjoy warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with icing if desired.
