Baked Apple Fritters – A Guilt-Free Twist on a Fall Favorite

These Baked Apple Fritters are everything you love about the classic—sweet, spiced, and packed with tender apple chunks—but without the deep-fried guilt. Soft on the inside with a golden, slightly crisp exterior, they’re the perfect cozy treat to enjoy any time of day. Best of all? They’re lightened-up and oven-baked, making them a better-for-you option that still feels indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven-Baked Goodness – No frying, less mess, fewer calories
Naturally Sweet – Apple chunks and warm spices do the heavy lifting
Perfect for Brunch or Snacking – Enjoy with coffee, tea, or on the go
Lightened-Up Comfort – All the classic flavor, made with smarter swaps

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• ¼ cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• Optional glaze:
   • ¼ cup powdered sugar
   • 1–2 tsp milk

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Stir in applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), milk, and vanilla.

4. Make the Batter
Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.

5. Scoop & Shape
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter onto the baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Flatten gently with the back of a spoon.

6. Bake
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden and set.

7. Add Optional Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with milk to create a thin glaze. Drizzle over warm fritters, if desired.

8. Serve
Best enjoyed warm, but they’re just as tasty the next day!

Nutritional Information (Per Fritter, Approximate)

Calories: 110
Carbs: 19g
Fat: 2g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g
(Low in points and high in cozy flavor! Adjust based on your personal plan.)

Tips for Success

• Use Sweet Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji give natural sweetness and hold shape when baked.
• Keep Them Moist: Don’t overbake—check at 18 minutes for best texture.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap in 1:1 gluten-free flour.
• For a Crispier Top: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).
• Skip the Glaze? Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while warm for a simple finish.

Why This Recipe Works

These fritters bring all the flavor and fall nostalgia without the fryer. Applesauce and maple syrup create natural moisture and sweetness, while baking cuts back on oil and calories. You get all the satisfaction—minus the heaviness—making these ideal for breakfast, dessert, or snack time.

Baked Apple Fritters prove you can enjoy a comforting, cinnamon-spiced treat while staying on track with your wellness goals. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying—just the thing to bake when the leaves start falling, or any time you need a warm bite of joy.