Apple Fritter Bites

These delicious bite-sized apple fritters are packed with sweet, spiced apple flavor and finished with a luscious apple cider glaze. Perfect for fall, they’re baked—not fried—making them a lighter yet indulgent treat for brunch, dessert, or snack time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy all the flavor of traditional apple fritters without the mess or calories of frying.
• Full of Fall Flavor: Made with cinnamon, apples, and an apple cider glaze, they’re autumn in every bite.
• Easy to Make: No special equipment or frying oil needed—just bake and glaze.
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Bite-sized treats that are easy to grab and share.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for breakfast, dessert platters, or as a snack with your favorite drinks.

Ingredients

For the Apple 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

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Apple Fritter Bites

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the egg, vanilla, and applesauce, whisking until smooth.
4. Combine Batter:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
5. Portion and Bake:
   Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes.
6. Broil for Caramelization:
   Remove the baking sheet from the oven and set the broiler to high.

Make the Apple Cider Glaze

1. Whisk Glaze:
   In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and apple cider or juice until smooth and pourable.
2. First Glaze:
   Brush the warm fritter bites with some of the glaze, letting it drip down the sides.
3. Caramelize Glaze:
   Place the fritters under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, rotating the pan frequently, until the glaze begins to bubble and caramelize.
4. Final Glaze:
   Remove the fritters from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow the glaze to set.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 30 bites
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Up: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for extra warmth.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Glaze Variety: Swap the apple cider glaze for salted caramel, maple syrup, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Fruity Twist: Replace some of the apples with diced pears for a sweet, unexpected flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm fritters in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed fritters for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples are great alternatives.

2. How do I ensure the fritters don’t stick to the baking sheet?

Use nonstick spray or line the baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Can I make these fritters without a broiler?

Yes, skip the broiling step and apply the glaze once the fritters are completely baked.

4. Can I fry these fritter bites instead of baking?

Yes, drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown, then glaze.

5. What if I don’t have apple cider?

Apple juice works as a substitute, or use milk for a non-apple-flavored glaze.

6. Can I make the batter in advance?

Yes, refrigerate the batter for up to 12 hours and bake when ready.

7. Are these fritters suitable for freezing?

Yes, freeze the unglazed fritters and glaze them after reheating.

8. Can I make these fritters vegan?

Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, and use vegan butter.

9. What pairs well with these fritters?

Serve with coffee, tea, apple cider, or a dollop of whipped cream.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Apple Fritter Bites are a delightful treat bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples and a caramelized apple cider glaze. Perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting snack, these fritters are easy to bake and even easier to enjoy. Try this recipe today and watch them disappear!

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