Apple Fritter Bites
Apple Fritter Bites are an irresistible autumn delicacy that I simply must share with you. These fritters, bursting with authentic apple flavor, are akin to doughnuts yet light as air, and are coated in a luscious apple cider glaze.
What makes these even more enticing is that they are baked, not fried, allowing you to indulge in seconds or even thirds with less guilt!
My first encounter with these delightful bites was thanks to Baker Mama’s creative friend, Courtney, who featured them in her new cookbook, Brilliant Bites. The moment I saw the recipe, I knew I had to try it. Could there be a better fall treat? Picture warm, doughy apple fritters with a crisp cider glaze—absolutely delightful!
These fritters truly capture the essence of apple goodness. They are incredibly moist, filled with tender pieces of fresh apple. The glaze, with its sweet and tart notes, forms a delightful crackly crust that is simply irresistible. The best part? Since they’re baked, you can enjoy a few without hesitation—or perhaps the entire batch if you’re like me!
Ingredients:
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 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, finely chopped
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons apple juice or cider
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and egg, whisking until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
- Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven. Set the broiler to high.
- To prepare the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and apple juice or cider until smooth and pourable.
- Brush the glaze over the warm fritter bites, allowing it to drip down the sides. Broil for 2-4 minutes, turning the pan frequently, until the glaze begins to bubble and caramelize.
- Remove from the oven and generously apply the remaining glaze over the tops of the fritters. Allow the glaze to set for 15 minutes before serving.
Enjoy these delectable Apple Fritter Bites as a perfect autumn treat!