WARM BAKED APPLE FRITTERS: All the Cozy Flavor, None of the Fryer Mess!

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Let’s Make It!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough & Apples

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs. Then, whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  4. Mix Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula until just combined; a few dry streaks are okay. Do not overmix!

  5. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the finely chopped apples into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Scoop & Bake to Perfection

  1. Scoop: Using a large cookie scoop or two spoons, drop ¼-cup portions of the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

  2. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the fritters are puffed and golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  3. Cool: Let the fritters cool on the pan for 5 minutes before adding your finishing touches.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches

  • For a Cinnamon-Sugar Coat: While the fritters are still warm, lightly brush them with melted butter, then dip or roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

  • For a Simple Glaze: Whisk the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla together until smooth. Add the remaining tablespoon of milk if needed to reach a drizzling consistency. Drizzle generously over the warm fritters.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Fritters

  • Don’t Overmix: A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine! Overmixing develops gluten and leads to tough, dense fritters.

  • Choose Your Apples Wisely: For the best flavor and texture, use firm, sweet-tart apples that hold their shape when baked. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn are excellent choices.

  • Uniform Size: Keeping your fritters the same size ensures they bake evenly.

  • Serve Warm: They are absolutely best enjoyed the day they are made, especially when still warm from the oven.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions:

  • With a hot cup of coffee or chai tea.

  • As a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

  • As the star of your holiday brunch spread.

How to Store:

  • Room Temperature: Store cooled fritters in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze unglazed fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave briefly until warm.

There you have it—the perfect baked apple fritter that delivers all the comfort without the fuss. The combination of spiced apples, tender cake, and sweet glaze is pure happiness in every bite.

Happy Baking

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