Apple Fritters

Apple Fritters

People love apple fritters for a combination of reasons that hit on taste, texture, nostalgia, and versatility. Apple fritters have a rich history that stretches back to Europe, likely even before the arrival of widely available apples in North America. We hope that this Apple Fritters recipe inspires you. 

Apple fritters marry the warm, comforting flavors of spiced apples with a sweet, fluffy dough. The caramelized exterior adds another layer of richness. The contrast between the soft, pillowy dough and the slightly crisp apple chunks is a textural treat. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and a bit of a melt-in-your-mouth quality. For many, apple fritters evoke happy memories of childhood breakfasts, county fairs, or bake sales. That sentimental connection adds to the enjoyment. Apple fritters can be enjoyed on their own as a treat, served alongside coffee for breakfast, or even incorporated into desserts with ice cream or caramel sauce.

Homemade Apple Fritters

Equipment & Supplies

• Apple corer
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Stand mixer
• Rubber spatula

Homemade Apple Fritters Ingredients

• 2-3 apples (Green apples/Granny Smith preferred)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tsp apple pie spice or cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp lemon juice (to cover freshly cut apples)
• 2.5 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup whole milk
• Vegetable or Canola Oil for frying

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Glaze Ingredients

• 1.5 cup confectioners sugar
• 1 tsp clear vanilla (regular vanilla also works but it won't be a bright white)
• 3-4 tsp milk or water

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt.
2. Peel, core, and dice apples, and toss in lemon juice in a small bowl.
3. Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix the sugar and eggs until combined (frothy).
4. Begin heating canola or vegetable oil on the stove on medium-high.
5. Reduce the speed to low and add in the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour in the milk in a slow continuous stream to not break the forming batter. If too much milk is accidentally poured in, allow the batter time to absorb it before adding more.
7. Fold in the apples using a rubber spatula.
8. Test Fry: Drop ¼ cup batter or (use an ice cream scooper) and let fry until golden brown. Flip and fry until the second side is golden brown.
9. Remove from oil and allow to dry on paper towels.
10. Test the doneness of your fritters by inserting a knife in the center. If it is still raw in the center your oil is too hot and you should reduce the heat.
11. Fry off the remaining batter and let drain on paper towels.
12. Prepare glaze and drizzle over apple fritters. If you prefer to drip your fritters in the glaze, you’ll need to add more milk to loosen up the glaze into an icing.
13. Let dry completely and enjoy!

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Apple Fritters

Why Do People Love Apple Fritters?

There are so many reasons why people love apple fritters. Below we've shared just a few. 

• Delicious Combination: They offer a delightful textural and taste contrast. The warm, fluffy, deep-fried dough gives way to sweet and tart apple chunks, often with a hint of cinnamon for added warmth. The glaze adds another layer of sweetness and richness.
• Comfort Food: For many, apple fritters evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. They might be associated with childhood breakfasts, county fairs, or bake sales. The flavors and textures can be reminiscent of happy memories.
• Indulgent Treat: Let's face it, apple fritters are a decadent pastry. The combination of fried dough, sugar, and fruit hits all the pleasure centers of the brain. They're a special occasion treat or a way to satisfy a sweet tooth.
• Seasonal Enjoyment: Apples are a fall fruit, and apple fritters often appear alongside other autumnal treats like pumpkin spice lattes. Enjoying them can feel like celebrating the season.
• Versatility: Apple fritters can be enjoyed plain, dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with syrup, or even served with ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.

History of Apple Fritters

Apple fritters have a rich history that stretches back to Europe, likely originating around medieval times. Below is a breakdown of their journey.

• European Origins: The word “fritter” itself comes from Latin, referring to anything fried [3]. Across Europe, from Italy to Germany to England, fritters were a common way to use up ingredients. Apples, being a plentiful and readily available fruit, found their way into these fried treats [4]. These early versions were probably sliced apples dipped in batter and fried, resembling modern doughnuts with a hole in the center, unlike the doughier American style we know today.
• American Take: European settlers brought the concept of fritters to America. Recipes for apple fritters appear in early American cookbooks, with mentions even dating back to George Washington's time [5, 6]. The American version likely evolved to be thicker and doughier, perhaps due to the abundance of wheat flour.
• Modern Popularity: Apple fritters remain a popular breakfast or snack food in the United States. They are often found in donut shops, bakeries, and even fast-food restaurants.

Homemade Apple Fritters

Next time you see an apple fritter, consider the delightful combination of textures, flavors, and its potential to evoke happy memories. It's no wonder they're a beloved treat! We hope that this Apple Fritters recipe inspires you. Happy cooking!

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