Introduction

Apple fritter bites are a delightful twist on the classic apple fritter, offering small, tender morsels bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples. These bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack anytime you crave something comforting and flavorful.

A close-up view of a white plate filled with about a dozen golden-brown fritters, each one round and slightly irregular in shape, with a crispy texture. The fritters are generously covered in a thick, shiny glaze that drips slightly down their sides, making them look sticky and sweet. The glaze gives a creamy off-white color to the top layer, contrasting with the warm, golden crust underneath. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and elegant background to the rich, tempting appearance of the fritters. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)
2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup + 2 tbsp apple cider or juice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together. Then add the egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Fold in the diced apples carefully to avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the batter and drop them a few inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the baking sheet from the oven and turn the oven broiler to high.
Step 7: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and apple cider or juice until the glaze is thin and pourable.
Step 8: Brush some of the glaze over the warm fritter bites, allowing it to drip down the sides. Place under the broiler for 2–4 minutes, rotating the pan frequently, until the glaze begins to caramelize and bubble.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and brush the remaining glaze evenly over the tops of the fritters.
Step 10: Let the fritter bites sit for 15 minutes to allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon to 1 tablespoon or add a pinch of ground nutmeg.
Use dried apples instead of fresh for a chewier texture and more concentrated apple flavor.
Substitute apple cider vinegar in the glaze for a tangier contrast to the sweet fritters.

Storage

Store leftover apple fritter bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to soften the glaze and warm the bites before serving.

How to Serve

A white round plate sits on a wooden tray, holding eight golden-brown apple fritters with a crispy, bumpy texture. The fritters are glazed with a shiny, light brown syrup that drips over the edges and pools slightly on the plate. One fritter, held above the others, shows a soft, pale yellow apple-filled center surrounded by the fried crust. In the background, there are blurred red apples and more fritters on another white plate, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can substitute Honeycrisp or Gala with other firm apples like Fuji, Granny Smith, or Braeburn. Just make sure they are finely diced for even cooking.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for one-to-one substitution to keep the texture similar.