WW Baked Apple Fritters: A Deliciously Healthy Treat

Introduction

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these WW Baked Apple Fritters! This delightful twist on the classic fried fritters features a tender apple base and a light, crispy exterior, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Easy to prepare and great for meal prep, these fritters can be enjoyed all year round.

This comprehensive guide includes ingredient measurements, step-by-step instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips to ensure your Baked Apple Fritters turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (or a sugar substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor

Nutritional Information (Per Fritter, makes about 12 fritters)

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 1.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 2g
  • SmartPoints (WW): 4 (based on the current WW system)

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process and ensure you don’t miss any steps.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for even baking and achieving a golden exterior on your fritters.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.

Step 4: Dice the Apples
Peel and dice the apples into small pieces (about 1/4 inch) to ensure even cooking and a good blend with the batter.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar (or sugar substitute), baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract until thoroughly mixed.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 8: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 9: Scoop the Batter
Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fritter to allow for spreading during baking. Aim for about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter.

Step 10: Bake the Fritters
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking.

Step 11: Prepare the Glaze
While the fritters are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor, if desired. Adjust the consistency by adding more almond milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.

Step 12: Cool the Fritters
Once the fritters are baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 13: Drizzle with Glaze
Once cool, drizzle the prepared glaze over each fritter using a spoon or piping bag for a more decorative finish.

Step 14: Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy your WW Baked Apple Fritters warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat after any meal.

Step 15: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Apple Variety: Use your favorite apples. Granny Smith offers a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Mixing different varieties can enhance the flavor.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Increase the sugar if you prefer a sweeter fritter, but keep in mind that this will also raise the SmartPoints.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.

Variations

  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger for a warm kick.
  • Nutty Fritters: Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for added texture and flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Glaze: Use a powdered sugar alternative and almond milk for a completely dairy-free glaze.

Final Thoughts

WW Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fritters, letting you savor comforting flavors without the guilt. Their ease of preparation and delightful taste make them a favorite for any occasion.

Embrace the wonderful flavors of fall with these delightful Baked Apple Fritters. Perfect for any time of day, these treats will surely become a staple in your household. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re indulging in a healthier dessert option!