Baked Apple Fritters

Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious twist on the classic fried treat, offering all the warm flavors and textures with a lighter, oven-baked finish. These fritters feature a soft, yeast-raised dough studded with tender chunks of tart apples, coated in cinnamon and lightly glazed with a sweet icing. Using baking instead instead of frying makes them easier to prepare and less greasy, yet still perfectly indulgent. The combination of spices like mace or nutmeg adds a cozy, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the natural tartness of the apples and the sweet glaze.

This recipe balances fluffy texture and crispy edges, creating fritters that are satisfying and easy to eat without the mess of deep frying. The homemade glaze enhances the flavor with hints of vanilla and sweetness, making these fritters ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack. The dough can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop even more. Whether you’re baking for a holiday breakfast or an everyday treat, these baked apple fritters bring warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Alternative to Fried Fritters

Baking instead of frying reduces oil use but keeps delicious flavor and texture.

2. Soft, Yeast-Raised Dough

The dough is light and airy, providing a perfect contrast to the tender apples.

3. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

Tart apples combined with cinnamon and sweet glaze create classic flavor harmony.

4. Great Make-Ahead Option

Dough can be prepared ahead, making baking quick and easy.

5. Family-Friendly and Versatile

Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a snack that kids and adults both love.

Ingredients

Dough

• Active dry or instant yeast
• Warm water
• White granulated sugar
• Bread flour (can substitute all-purpose flour)
• Baking powder
• Mace (or nutmeg)
• Salt
• Shortening or lard (can use vegetable oil)
• Egg
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

For the Apples

• Tart apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• White sugar
• Fresh lemon juice

For Assembling

• Cinnamon
• Bread flour

Glaze

• Confectioners/icing sugar
• Light corn syrup or golden syrup
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• White sugar
• Water

Variations

• Apple Variety: Use Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness.
• Spices: Swap mace for cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough for varied flavor.
• Glaze Flavor: Add lemon or orange zest to the glaze for a citrus twist.
• Add Nuts: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Vegan Option: Substitute shortening with coconut oil and use flax egg instead of regular egg.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Activate yeast by combining it with warm water and sugar. Let it sit until foamy.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, baking powder, mace, and salt.

Step 3

Add shortening, egg, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture to dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4

Knead the dough lightly, adding more flour if needed until smooth. Cover and let rise until doubled in size.

Step 5

Meanwhile, toss chopped apples with sugar and lemon juice; set aside.

Step 6

Once dough has risen, roll it out slightly and sprinkle with cinnamon and bread flour.

Step 7

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.

Step 8

Cut dough into squares or rectangles, then fold or shape as desired for fritters.

Step 9

Place fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 10

While baking, prepare glaze by mixing confectioners sugar, corn syrup, salt, vanilla, white sugar, and water until smooth.

Step 11

Remove fritters from oven and drizzle or dip in glaze while still warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature ingredients for easier dough mixing.
• Make sure yeast water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing yeast.
• Do not overwork dough to keep fritters light and fluffy.
• Peel and core apples just before assembling to prevent browning.
• Glaze fritters while warm for best absorption and shine.

How to Serve

Serve baked apple fritters warm, either plain or generously drizzled with glaze. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea and make an inviting breakfast or dessert option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Freeze fritters individually wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works fine but may produce a slightly softer texture.

2. What type of apples is best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are preferred for balance, but sweeter varieties can be used.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate dough after rising and use within 24 hours.

4. What if I don’t have shortening or lard?

Vegetable oil or melted butter can be used as a substitute.

5. How do I know when the fritters are done?

They should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when pressed.

6. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, but adjust oil temperature and cooking time to avoid burning.

7. Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds sweetness and shine but can be omitted if preferred.

8. How should I store leftovers?

In an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

9. Can I add nuts or raisins?

Yes, fold in chopped nuts or raisins with the apples if desired.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast doughs but note texture changes.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Fritters offer a delightful combination of fluffy dough, tender apples, and sweet glaze in a lighter, oven-baked form. Easy to make and versatile, they are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you crave a cozy, comforting treat. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe will become a favorite for all seasons.

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