You guys, I’m so excited to share the ultimate fall treat with you today – Apple Fritter Bites that are absolutely game-changing! Picture light, doughnut-like bites bursting with real apple goodness, all topped off with a dreamy apple cider glaze. The best part? They’re baked instead of fried, so you can indulge guilt-free and go back for seconds… or even thirds!
INGREDIENTS
- 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)
Apple Cider Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp apple cider or apple juice
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, whisking until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Gently stir in the diced apples.
- Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of batter and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set the broiler to high.
- While the fritters bake, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar with apple cider or juice until smooth and pourable.
- Brush the warm fritter bites with a layer of glaze, letting it drip down the sides. Broil for 2-4 minutes, rotating the pan frequently, until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes slightly.
- Remove from the oven and generously brush the remaining glaze over the fritters.
- Allow the fritters to sit for 15 minutes to let the glaze set before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Perfect for brunch spreads, snack boards, or dessert platters.
- For an extra indulgent touch, dip them in salted caramel, maple syrup, or chocolate sauce.
- Pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, a glass of cider, or a cold glass of milk.
