Description
Apple Fritter Bites are sweet, soft, and perfectly spiced little treats packed with fresh apple flavor. These bite-sized delights are baked (not fried), brushed with a caramelized apple cider glaze, and finished with a glossy coating that makes them downright irresistible. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday trays, or just a cozy snack with coffee, these fritter bites bring all the flavors of a classic apple fritter—without the mess of frying.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Apple lovers looking for a fun dessert or snack.
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Families who want a quick and easy fall-inspired treat.
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Anyone who prefers a baked version of fritters instead of deep-fried.
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Home bakers wanting a kid-friendly recipe that’s easy to share.
Why it’s Great
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Bite-sized: Perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
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Healthier alternative: Baked instead of fried, but still full of flavor.
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Seasonal goodness: Made with fresh apples and warm spices.
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Crowd-pleaser: A treat that both kids and adults can’t resist.
Ingredients
For the Fritter Bites
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Nonstick cooking spray
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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2 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp kosher salt
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup unsweetened applesauce
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1 ½ cups finely diced Honeycrisp or Gala apples (about 2 medium)
For the Apple Cider Glaze
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2 cups powdered sugar
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⅓ cup + 2 tbsp apple cider (or apple juice)
Instructions
Make the Fritter Bites
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
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In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla, and applesauce, mixing until combined.
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Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Gently fold in diced apples.
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Scoop out 1 tbsp portions of batter and place them a few inches apart on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and switch the broiler to high.
Make the Glaze
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Whisk together powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth and pourable.
Finish the Fritters
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Brush warm fritter bites with some glaze, letting it drip down the sides.
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Broil for 2–4 minutes, rotating the pan often, until glaze caramelizes and bubbles.
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Remove from oven and brush with the remaining glaze.
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Let sit for 15 minutes to allow glaze to set before serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Baking sheet
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Pastry brush
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Cooling rack (optional)
Storage
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 4 days. Warm briefly before serving for best taste.
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Freezer: Freeze (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Fuji or Honeycrisp make them sweeter.
2. Can I skip the broiler step?
You can, but the broiler caramelizes the glaze and adds amazing flavor.
3. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes—bake and store unglazed fritters. Glaze just before serving.
4. Are these fritters fried?
Nope! They’re baked, making them lighter but still flavorful.
Conclusion
Apple Fritter Bites are the ultimate sweet treat for fall and beyond. With a tender apple-studded base, a cinnamon kick, and a caramelized apple cider glaze, these little bites are guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether served as dessert, a snack, or a party treat, they’re an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to make again and again.