Baked Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze

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Who can resist the comforting taste of warm apple fritters? This baked version brings all the cozy flavors of fall while keeping things a little lighter than the traditional fried fritters. Tender chunks of apple, a hint of cinnamon, and a sweet vanilla glaze come together in a dessert (or breakfast!) that’s both indulgent and wholesome.

Light and Fluffy Baked Apple Fritters

Baking apple fritters offers a healthier twist on this classic treat without sacrificing flavor or texture. The apples become tender and caramelized, while the dough turns golden and fluffy, with just the right amount of spice. Finished with a luscious vanilla glaze, these fritters strike the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

These baked apple fritters are perfect for a cozy morning with coffee, an afternoon snack, or even a festive dessert. They’re easy to whip up and will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apples. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Baked Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze

Creating these delicious baked apple fritters requires simple ingredients that come together to make a warm, comforting treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Apples – Use firm, tart-sweet apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Peel and dice them into small chunks.
• All-Purpose Flour – This forms the base of the fritter batter and ensures the fritters are light and fluffy.
• Baking Powder – Helps the fritters rise, giving them that soft, airy texture.
• Sugar – A mix of granulated sugar for sweetness and a touch of brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the batter.
• Milk – Adds moisture and creates a smooth, pourable batter.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Bring that warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the fritters.
• Powdered Sugar and Vanilla (for the Glaze) – A simple, sweet vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract completes these fritters with a glossy finish.

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How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

Follow these easy steps to bake these irresistible fritters and enjoy them fresh from the oven:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – the batter should be thick but spoonable.

Step 3: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. The apples should be generously coated with the batter for the best results.

Step 4: Shape the Fritters

Spoon the batter onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds, about 2-3 tablespoons each. Use the back of a spoon to flatten them slightly, as they won’t spread much during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Fritters

Bake the fritters in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

While the fritters bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.

Step 7: Glaze the Fritters

Remove the baked fritters from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the vanilla glaze over the warm fritters, allowing it to drip down the sides. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Apple Fritters

Baking time can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your fritters. Here’s a general guide to ensure they turn out perfectly golden and delicious:

• Small Fritters – Bake for 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Medium Fritters – Bake for 15-18 minutes.
• Large Fritters – Bake for 18-20 minutes.

The fritters are done when they’re lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake them, as this could make them dry.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover fritters, don’t worry – they store well and can be reheated to enjoy later. Follow these tips to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator – Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a warm oven (about 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes to restore their texture.
• Freezer – For longer storage, place the fritters in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Fritters

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your fritters turn out just right:

• Choose the Right Apples – Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Softer apples can become too mushy during baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the fritters light and fluffy. Overmixing can make them dense.
• Flatten the Fritters Slightly – Shaping them before baking ensures even cooking and the perfect thickness.
• Adjust the Glaze – Add more milk to the glaze for a thinner consistency or more powdered sugar for a thicker coating.
• Serve Warm – Baked apple fritters are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the glaze is still slightly warm and gooey.

Whether you’re making these for a special brunch or as an afternoon treat, these baked apple fritters are sure to delight!

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