Baked Apple Fritters Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Apple Fritters

• Active Dry Yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (105-115°F)
• Nonfat Milk
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) margarine
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Whole Wheat Pastry Flour
• Unbleached Flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

How to Make Baked Apple Fritters

1. Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast over 1/2 cup warm water (105-115°F). Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Meanwhile, in a food processor bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F), 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) melted margarine, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
3. Let stand until the margarine is completely melted and the mixture is lukewarm.
4. Add 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour to the food processor and blend until combined.
5. Add the yeast mixture, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 large egg to the food processor. Process until well combined.
6. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, processing until a soft dough forms. If needed, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is no longer sticky.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes to form a smooth ball.
8. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat the top.
9. Cover the bowl and let rise in a warm place for 1 1/2 hours, or refrigerate overnight.
10. Punch down the dough to release the air.
11. Gently fold in 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended).
12. Divide the dough into thirds.
13. Cut each third into 6 equal pieces using kitchen shears or a sharp knife.
14. Shape each piece into a small mound and place them on a greased baking sheet.
15. Cover and let rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
16. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
17. Uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
18. While fritters bake, prepare the glaze: In a food processor, combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice. Process until smooth and creamy, adding more lemon juice as needed to reach desired consistency.
19. Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and serve immediately.