Delightful Baked Apple Fritter Bites

These Apple Fritter Bites are the perfect autumn treat—light, apple-flavored, and drizzled with a delicious apple cider glaze. Baked instead of fried, they offer a healthier option while still delivering a sweet and crispy experience that everyone will love!

Nutritional Benefits

These bites incorporate fresh apples, providing dietary fiber and essential vitamins. By baking instead of frying, you reduce unnecessary calories and fats while still enjoying a delightful dessert.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 medium Honeycrisp or Gala apples, peeled and diced

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons apple cider or apple juice

Cooking Tips

• Apple Selection: Use Honeycrisp or Gala apples for the best sweetness and texture.
• Cinnamon Variations: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter.

Directions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

3. In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted butter. Mix until thoroughly combined.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce, and mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.

Shape and Bake

7. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10 minutes. After baking, switch the oven to broil on high for an additional 2 to 4 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy.

Prepare the Glaze

9. While the fritters are baking, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar with apple cider or apple juice until smooth and pourable.

Glaze the Fritters

10. Brush or drizzle the warm fritters with the glaze, allowing it to run down the sides.
11. Remove from the oven and add any remaining glaze on top of the fritters.

Finish and Serve

12. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving to achieve the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful bites warm, alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For an indulgent dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

These Apple Fritter Bites are not just a seasonal treat; they’re a delightful way to celebrate autumn flavors! With tender apple pieces enveloped in a sweet glaze, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the ultimate experience!