Craving the flavors of a classic apple fritter but don’t want the hassle of deep-frying large batches? These Apple Fritter Bites are the perfect solution! They’re bite-sized, lightly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon. Whether you’re looking for a quick fall treat or a year-round dessert, these fritter bites are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Pair them with a simple glaze for a touch of sweetness that will leave everyone reaching for seconds!
Necessary Kitchen Equipment
- Mixing bowls (small and medium)
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Candy thermometer (optional, for oil temperature)
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Small bowl (for glaze)
Ingredients
For the Fritter Bites:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (190 g)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup milk (80 ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 1 medium apple, choose a tart variety like Granny Smith)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (120 g)
- 2–3 tbsp milk (30–45 ml)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Batter:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in the diced apples gently using a spatula.
Heat the Oil:
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to maintain the temperature, if possible.
Fry the Fritter Bites:
Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Drain the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if needed.
Glaze the Fritter Bites:
Dip each fritter bite into the glaze or drizzle it over them using a spoon. Place the glazed fritters on a wire rack to set.
Recipe Tips
Apples: For the best flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Chop them into small, even pieces for consistent texture. Oil Temperature: Keep the oil temperature steady to ensure the fritters cook evenly without absorbing too much oil. Extra Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze for an extra pop of warm spice. Storage: These are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
What to Serve with Apple Fritter Bites
Serve these delightful bites with a cup of coffee, tea, or a tall glass of cold milk. For an extra indulgent touch, pair them with caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes in a mini muffin tin, though they won’t have the same crispy exterior. 2. Can I use a different type of fruit? Yes! Pears or peaches work well as substitutes, but ensure they are ripe and diced small. 3. Can I freeze them? Yes, freeze the fritters (unglazed) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before glazing.
classic apple fritter
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (small and medium)
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Candy thermometer (optional, for oil temperature)
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Small bowl (for glaze)
Ingredients
- For the Fritter Bites:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 190 g
- ¼ cup granulated sugar 50 g
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup milk 80 ml
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples about 1 medium apple, choose a tart variety like Granny Smith
- Oil for frying vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar 120 g
- 2 –3 tbsp milk 30–45 ml
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Batter:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in the diced apples gently using a spatula.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to maintain the temperature, if possible.
- Fry the Fritter Bites:
- Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Drain the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if needed.
- Glaze the Fritter Bites:
- Dip each fritter bite into the glaze or drizzle it over them using a spoon. Place the glazed fritters on a wire rack to set.
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