Baked Apple Fritters offer a healthier twist on a classic fried treat, encapsulating the cozy flavors of autumn in every bite. This recipe combines the sweet and tart elements of apples with warm spices and a tender, cake-like texture. Baking instead of frying makes these fritters a lighter option, ideal for a comforting breakfast or a delightful snack paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 6 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 6-ounce container vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup peeled and chopped apple (about 1 large apple)
- ½ cup peeled and shredded apple (about 1 small apple)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, divided
- ⅓ cup apple cider
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the fritters from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 3: Cut in the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process helps to create a flaky texture in the fritters.
Step 4: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, and vanilla yogurt. Add this wet mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Gently fold in both the chopped and shredded apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion as they bake.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the fritters turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Allow the fritters to cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with apple cider in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 9: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters, letting it set until it hardens, approximately 15 minutes.
COOKING Note:
The consistency of the batter should be thick but spoonable. If it's too dry, add a bit more yogurt; if too wet, a little more flour can be incorporated.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these baked apple fritters warm or at room temperature, ideally on the day they are made to enjoy their best flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Choose apples that are firm and slightly tart, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to balance the sweetness of the fritters.
- For an even more robust flavor, consider adding a dash of ground cloves or allspice to the batter.
- Ensure the butter is cold to help achieve a flaky texture in the fritters.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Approximate values per fritter (may vary based on exact ingredients and serving size):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
Baked Apple Fritters are a delightful and easier-to-make alternative to their traditionally fried counterparts, capturing the essence of fall in each bite. With a soft, moist interior loaded with fresh apples and a sweet, crispy exterior from the glaze, these fritters are sure to be a hit for any apple lover or anyone looking for a comforting, homemade treat.
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