Apple Fritters

Apple Fritters

There’s something about the autumn air that makes me crave warm, sweet treats, and Apple Fritters have topped my list for years. My fondest memories are filled with the aroma of fried apples mingling with cinnamon, and every time I bite into one of these delightful fritters, I’m transported back to those crisp fall days. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday morning or an afternoon gathering, these fritters are the perfect way to celebrate the season. The way the warm, soft interior shines through a crispy, golden exterior is simply irresistible. And let’s not forget the luscious maple glaze that adds a sweet finishing touch, making each bite even more heavenly. Trust me, once you make these Apple Fritters, they’ll become a cherished tradition in your home, just like they are in mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
210 kcal
Protein:
2 g
Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Skillet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Peeler

The Appeal of This Apple Fritters

Comforting Sweetness

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm Apple Fritter fresh from the fryer. It’s the perfect combination of fluffy dough and sweet, juicy apples that wraps you in a comforting embrace. Each fritter has a tender texture, with bits of apple peeking through, making them incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

As the weather cools down, these fritters are ideal for any fall gathering. Imagine a cozy get-together with friends where everyone enjoys the delectable taste of homemade fritters paired with warm cider. They’re not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings people together.

Customizable Delight

The beauty of Apple Fritters lies in their versatility. While traditional recipes shine with the classic apple flavor, you can easily add your favorite spices or even nuts to elevate the taste. Whether you prefer a hint of nutmeg or a sprinkle of pecans, you can make these fritters your own.

Easy to Make

Don’t be intimidated by the frying process! Making Apple Fritters at home is simpler than you think. With just a few ingredients and some careful frying, you can create a batch that rivals any bakery. Plus, the joy of sharing homemade treats is immensely rewarding.

Decadent Maple Glaze

Let’s not overlook the star of the show: the maple glaze. This sweet topping takes your fritters to another level, making them even more indulgent. Drizzling the glaze over the warm fritters creates a stunning finish that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

What to Gather for Apple Fritters

Apple Fritters

To create the ultimate Apple Fritters, you’ll need to gather a selection of fresh ingredients that work in harmony. Each item plays a vital role, from the tartness of the apples to the sweetness of the glaze. The balance of flavors and textures makes these fritters utterly irresistible.

  • 4 cups apples peeled and diced – about 2-3 honeycrisp or granny smith apples
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • pinch ground ginger
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted cooled to room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla or maple extract
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2-3 teaspoons milk

Making This Apple Fritters

Apple Fritters

Now that you’ve gathered everything, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into making Apple Fritters. The process is quite straightforward, and the results are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

  1. Start by adding the diced apples into a large bowl. Pour in the lemon juice and lemon zest, tossing them together to combine well. This will not only brighten the flavor of the apples but also prevent them from browning.
  2. In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and the cooled melted butter. Whisk until everything is fully combined, and you can see a smooth mixture.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and ground ginger. Mix them well so that they are evenly distributed.
  4. Once the dry ingredients are mixed, add them to the wet mixture. Stir gently until a loose dough forms; it’s important not to overmix since that can change the texture of the fritters.
  5. Next, take a rubber spatula and carefully fold in the diced apples. You want to make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Grab a deep frying pan or a large saucepan and fill it with about 3-4 cups of vegetable oil, measuring to ensure you have about 3-4 inches of oil. This depth is crucial for even frying.
  7. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 375°F, which is best checked with an instant-read thermometer. This temperature is essential to achieve that perfect golden-brown fry.
  8. Using a measuring cup, scoop about 1/4 or 1/3 cup of the batter and drop it into the hot oil. Fry until the outside is golden brown, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Make sure to flip it halfway for even cooking.
  9. After frying, if you pinch the fritter in the center with a small sharp knife, it should come out clean. If it doesn’t, fry a little longer until it does.
  10. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried fritters onto a paper towel-lined cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before adding the glaze.
  11. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter until you’ve cooked all of them!
  12. In a small bowl, combine the confectioner’s sugar, vanilla or maple extract, maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of milk. Stir until smooth. If you need to adjust the consistency, add more milk one teaspoon at a time until it’s thick but drizzles easily.
  13. Finally, drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters and let them dry before serving. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Frying Temperature: Always ensure your frying oil is at the right temperature. This helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy.
  • Cooling: Let the fritters cool on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  • Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, ripe apples for the best flavor. Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great choices.
  • Glaze Thickness: Adjust the glaze to your liking by adding more or less milk. A thicker glaze will stay in place better than a thinner one.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Apple Fritters

Want to put a unique spin on your Apple Fritters? Here are some fun tips to consider that will elevate your fritters to a whole new level.

  • Storage: Keep any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the fritters before glazing them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer.
  • Flavor Variations: Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch. You can also mix in raisins for a different texture.
  • Spice it Up: Experiment with various spices such as cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile.
  • Serve with Dips: Consider serving the fritters alongside a caramel sauce or whipped cream for dipping.

What to Serve Alongside Apple Fritters

  • Coffee or Tea: Pair your Apple Fritters with a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
  • Breakfast Side: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a delightful breakfast spread.
  • Seasonal Desserts: Consider serving your fritters as a dessert option during fall gatherings, especially when hosting Thanksgiving.
  • Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
  • Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can complement the sweetness of the fritters, offering a refreshing contrast.
  • Events: These fritters are perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers with friends and family.

FAQ

Absolutely! While I recommend using honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. Each variety will lend a unique flavor to your Apple Fritters, so don’t hesitate to try different kinds.

To store leftover Apple Fritters, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can use an air fryer for a few minutes, which will help them regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving them, as they may become soggy.

Yes! If you have a gluten intolerance, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to help maintain the fritters’ structure while frying. They should turn out just as delicious!

Apple Fritters are versatile and can be served with various accompaniments. I love pairing them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. They also make a fantastic dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a more savory option, serve them with a fresh fruit salad.

Conclusion

The joy of making Apple Fritters lies not only in their deliciousness but also in the memories created while preparing them. With their crispy texture and sweet, flavorful filling, they are a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting treat. So why not gather your ingredients and give them a try? I promise you won’t regret it, and your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Apple Fritters

Apple Fritters

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Apple Fritters. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are filled with juicy apples and finished with a luscious maple glaze. Perfect for your fall gatherings or cozy breakfasts, you won’t be able to resist making them tonight!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 fritters
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups apples peeled and diced - about 2-3 honeycrisp or granny smith apples
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1.25 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 pinch ground ginger
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted cooled to room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup confectioner's sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla or maple extract
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2-3 teaspoons milk

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Skillet
  • Frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Peeler

Method
 

  1. Start by adding the diced apples into a large bowl. Pour in the lemon juice and lemon zest, tossing them together to combine well. This will not only brighten the flavor of the apples but also prevent them from browning.
  2. In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and the cooled melted butter. Whisk until everything is fully combined, and you can see a smooth mixture.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and ground ginger. Mix them well so that they are evenly distributed.
  4. Once the dry ingredients are mixed, add them to the wet mixture. Stir gently until a loose dough forms; it’s important not to overmix since that can change the texture of the fritters.
  5. Next, take a rubber spatula and carefully fold in the diced apples. You want to make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Grab a deep frying pan or a large saucepan and fill it with about 3-4 cups of vegetable oil, measuring to ensure you have about 3-4 inches of oil. This depth is crucial for even frying.
  7. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 375°F, which is best checked with an instant-read thermometer. This temperature is essential to achieve that perfect golden-brown fry.
  8. Using a measuring cup, scoop about 1/4 or 1/3 cup of the batter and drop it into the hot oil. Fry until the outside is golden brown, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Make sure to flip it halfway for even cooking.
  9. After frying, if you pinch the fritter in the center with a small sharp knife, it should come out clean. If it doesn't, fry a little longer until it does.
  10. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried fritters onto a paper towel-lined cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before adding the glaze.
  11. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter until you’ve cooked all of them!
  12. In a small bowl, combine the confectioner's sugar, vanilla or maple extract, maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of milk. Stir until smooth. If you need to adjust the consistency, add more milk one teaspoon at a time until it’s thick but drizzles easily.
  13. Finally, drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters and let them dry before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage: Keep any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the fritters before glazing them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer.
  • Flavor Variations: Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch. You can also mix in raisins for a different texture.
  • Spice it Up: Experiment with various spices such as cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile.
  • Serve with Dips: Consider serving the fritters alongside a caramel sauce or whipped cream for dipping.

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