Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites. Soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, these fritters make an ideal treat for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these bites are sure to be a seasonal favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
- Canned pumpkin puree: 1 cup
- Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor to the fritters.
- All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup
- Provides structure and helps the fritters hold together.
- Cornmeal: 1/4 cup
- Adds a slight crunch and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup
- Sweetens the fritters and enhances the warm spices.
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Helps the fritters rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Adds warmth and spice, perfect for the fall season.
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Complements the cinnamon with a slightly nutty flavor.
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Adds moisture to the batter, ensuring the fritters are tender.
- Large egg: 1
- Binds the ingredients together, giving the fritters structure.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Adds a subtle, sweet aroma that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- Melted butter: 2 tbsp
- Adds richness and flavor to the fritters.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Provides a sweet, decorative finish.
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or a baking sheet to ensure the fritters don’t stick during baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until fully combined. This mixture adds the moisture and flavor needed for the fritters.
4. Combine:
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher fritters. The batter should be thick but scoopable.
5. Bake:
Spoon the batter into the mini muffin cups or drop by spoonfuls onto the baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each fritter. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Dust and Serve:
Allow the fritters to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy the soft, sweet, and spiced flavors of these autumn treats.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 120 kcal per fritter
- Servings: 24 fritter bites
Tips for Perfect Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites:
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, make sure your spices are fresh. Cinnamon and nutmeg lose potency over time, so fresh spices will give your fritters the most vibrant flavor.
- Add a Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, try drizzling the fritters with a bit of maple syrup or honey after baking. This adds a delightful contrast to the warm spices.
Conclusion:
These Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites are an easy and delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a dessert, or simply as a snack with a warm drink, these fritters are sure to bring comfort and joy. With their soft, moist texture and the perfect blend of spices, they’re a treat that everyone will love.