White Chocolate Apple Fritters

When I was a kid, a trip to the donut shop meant a fresh, crispy apple fritter. I've finally nailed down the perfect recipe to make them at home! And I added white chocolate chips, because I love them, and it really works! Crispy on the outside, with a cakey center with chewy chocolate and a slight crunch from the apples. And the sweet glaze makes them absolute fritter perfection. I made these mini-fritters since they tend to cook a little better. Plus, you can eat 2 or 3 and not feel guilty. :)

Here's how to make them:

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 TSP baking powder

• 1/2 TSP kosher salt

• 2 TSP ground cinnamon

• 1/3 cup milk (you can use almond milk as a non-dairy option)

• 2 eggs

• 3 TBS applesauce

• 2 large apples (I like Honey Crisp or any sweet apple), peeled, cored and diced into small pieces

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (you could use milk/dark chocolate, or any flavor!)

• 6-8 cups canola oil, for frying

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted (sifting ensures a smoother, creamier glaze)

• 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)

• 1/2 TSP vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

2. Using your fingers, make a well in the center and add the milk, eggs and applesauce.

3. Stir to combine, then fold in the apples and white chocolate chips.

4. Heat the oil in a heavy skillet, dutch oven or deep fryer to 375° F. If not using a deep fryer, I like to use a candy thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.

5. Drop about 1 tablespoon of batter per fritter into the oil. Don't overcrowd the pot - do 3-4 at a time.

6. Cook each side for 45 seconds - 1 minute, until golden brown.

7. Place on a paper-towel lined baking sheet to drain.

8. Make the glaze: Whisk together the milk, powdered sugar and vanilla.

9. Using tongs, dunk each fritter into the glaze, ensuring it's fully coated.

10. Place on a wire rack to dry. You may want to put foil or parchment paper under the rack since the glaze will drip to avoid messy clean up!

11. Once the glaze is set, enjoy!

Did you make them? Share pics in the comments!