Mediterranean Baked Apple Fritters
Inspired by the warmth of Mediterranean spices and ingredients, these baked apple fritters feature grated apple, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and hints of lemon and cinnamon. They’re light, naturally sweet, and guilt-free with a tender, cakey inside and golden exterior — no frying needed!
⏱️ Required Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
Cooling Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 8–10 small fritters
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
1 cup (120 g) whole wheat flour (or all-purpose)
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cardamom (optional)
Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup grated apple (1 large or 2 small apples – Granny Smith or Honey crisp)
1 egg
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil (or neutral oil)
3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Glaze or Garnish:
2 tbsp honey + 1 tsp lemon juice (warmed and drizzled)
Powdered sugar or cinnamon-sugar for dusting
Chopped toasted walnuts or pistachios
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with oil or spray.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk egg, yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon zest, and vanilla.
Fold in grated apple (including some of the juice for moisture).
4. Combine Wet & Dry:
Add dry ingredients to the wet and gently mix just until combined. Do not over mix.
5. Shape & Bake:
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop mounds of batter onto the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden brown and set. They should spring back slightly when touched.
6. Cool & Glaze:
Cool on a rack for 5 minutes.
Optional: drizzle warm honey-lemon glaze or dust with powdered sugar/cinnamon-sugar.
Notes
Use apples with good flavor and moisture (like Honey crisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji).
You can substitute the Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version.
To make ahead, store baked fritters in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.
Tips
Add 2 tbsp finely chopped dates, raisins, or dried figs for Mediterranean flair.
For crunch, fold in ¼ cup chopped walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.
Want them extra moist; Let the grated apples sit for 5 min in honey before mixing into the batter.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum or almond flour + oat flour combo.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use a different fruit?
A: Pears or finely chopped figs also work beautifully with similar spice blends.
Nutrition Facts
Calories 120 kcal
Carbohydrates 16 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 5 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 8 g (natural)
Sodium 90 mg