These irresistible Apple Fritter Bites bring all the deliciousness of classic apple fritters but in adorable, bite-sized, poppable form—and they’re baked, not fried! Light, doughnut-like, and packed with real apple flavor, each bite is finished with a crisp, tangy apple cider glaze. They’re the perfect fall treat that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritter Bites
- No deep frying needed—just bake and broil for a healthier option.
- Easy, one-bowl batter with minimal clean-up.
- Applesauce in the batter boosts the apple flavor and keeps them moist.
- The apple cider glaze is sweet, tart, and adds a satisfying crackly finish.
- Perfect for kids, adults, and any fall gathering!
Ingredients
Apple Fritter Bites:
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 ½ cups finely diced Honeycrisp or Gala apples (about 2 medium)
Apple Cider Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup + 2 tbsp apple cider or apple juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. - Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Then, add the egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce, stirring until well combined. - Combine the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the diced apples. - Portion and Bake
Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of the batter and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced a few inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes. - Broil for Caramelization
Remove from the oven and set the broiler to high. - Prepare the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and apple cider/juice until it reaches a thin, pourable consistency. - Glaze and Broil the Fritters
Brush some of the glaze over the warm fritter bites, allowing it to drip down the sides. Broil for 2-4 minutes, rotating the pan frequently, until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes slightly. - Finish with Extra Glaze
Remove from the oven, brush the remaining glaze over the fritter bites, and let them sit for 15 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a brunch treat, on a dessert platter, or add to a cozy fall snack board.
- For extra decadence, try dipping in caramel, maple, or chocolate sauce.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, apple cider, or milk for the perfect fall indulgence.
Enjoy these warm, apple-studded bites that will have everyone asking for seconds…or thirds! Let me know if you try them; I can’t wait to hear what you think!