Apple Fritter Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Fritter Bites are a delightful, bite-sized treat that combines the warm, cozy flavors of fall with a lighter twist. Baked instead of fried, these apple-filled fritters are topped with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, offering a healthier yet indulgent option for brunch, snacks, or dessert. With tender apples, a simple glaze, and a one-bowl batter, these fritter bites are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for sharing!
Ingredients
For the Fritter Bites:
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups finely diced Honeycrisp or Gala apples (about 2 medium)
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp apple cider or juice
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce, mixing until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Form the fritters: Scoop 1 tbsp portions of the batter and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the fritters: Bake the fritter bites for 10 minutes, then switch the oven to broil. Brush the fritters with the apple cider glaze and broil for 2-4 minutes, rotating the pan occasionally until the glaze caramelizes.
- Finish the fritters: Brush any remaining glaze over the fritters and let them set for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a variation, try dipping the fritters in caramel, maple syrup, or chocolate for an extra burst of flavor.
- Experiment with different apple varieties such as Fuji or Braeburn for slight changes in flavor.
- The fritters can be fried instead of baked for a traditional apple fritter experience, but this recipe is designed to be a lighter, healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These apple fritter bites are incredibly easy to make, using one bowl for the batter. The combination of tender apples and a sweet glaze is comforting, while the baked method keeps them light and not greasy. Plus, they’re a crowd favorite!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups finely diced Honeycrisp or Gala apples (about 2 medium)
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp apple cider or juice
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar. Add egg, vanilla, and applesauce, mixing until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until combined. Gently fold in diced apples.
- Scoop 1 tbsp portions of batter and drop onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then switch to broiler. Brush with glaze and broil for 2-4 minutes, rotating the pan until glaze caramelizes.
- Brush remaining glaze over fritters and let set for 15 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 30 bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Dips: Try caramel, maple, or chocolate dips for added flavor.
- Different Apples: Experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for subtle flavor changes.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or microwave to refresh the texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! Honeycrisp and Gala are great, but feel free to try Fuji, Braeburn, or Granny Smith for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I fry these instead of baking them?
While this recipe is designed to be baked for a healthier option, you can fry them for a traditional fritter experience.
3. How can I make the glaze thicker?
Add powdered sugar a little at a time to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes, store-bought works just fine.
5. How do I prevent the fritters from sticking to the pan?
Use nonstick spray generously on the baking sheet to avoid sticking.
6. What’s the best way to store leftover fritters?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you want them to last longer.
7. Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, freeze the baked fritters in a single layer, then transfer
