The comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen, combined with the sweet drizzle of maple glaze, makes these Baked Pumpkin Spice Fritters an absolute must-try. Sure, you could fry your fritters, but baking them gives you the same delicious flavor without the extra oil. Perfect for cozy fall mornings or as an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee, this recipe blends warm spices, pumpkin puree, and a touch of sweetness to create something truly irresistible. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked!
Whether you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast or just looking for a unique baked treat, these fritters offer the perfect balance of soft, spiced interior and slightly crisp exterior. Plus, the maple glaze? Oh, it’s the icing on the cake—literally. So let’s dive right into the magic of these baked beauties!
The Story Behind Pumpkin Spice Fritters
There’s something about pumpkin spice that screams autumn. It’s not just a flavor; it’s a feeling—a nostalgic nod to cozy sweaters, crunchy leaves, and everything warm and comforting. Pumpkin fritters have deep roots in various culinary traditions around the world. While they’ve been enjoyed in fried form for centuries, baking them is a modern twist that keeps them lighter but equally delicious.
My love affair with pumpkin spice fritters began during a chilly autumn visit to a local harvest festival. The air was filled with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, and I couldn’t resist trying a pumpkin fritter drizzled with maple glaze. It was love at first bite. Over the years, I’ve played around with recipes, and this baked version is my favorite. It’s less messy, a bit healthier, and incredibly rewarding when you pull them out of the oven golden and perfect.
This recipe is especially dear to me because it’s a seasonal staple in my home. It’s one of those versatile treats that can be served at breakfast, as a dessert, or even as a snack. Plus, if you’re a fan of meal prepping, these fritters freeze beautifully—making your fall mornings just a little easier.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect baked pumpkin spice fritter. Here’s a breakdown:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of our fritters. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Pumpkin Puree: Go for pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling). It adds moisture and that classic pumpkin flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the fritter dough just enough. You can substitute coconut sugar or brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Adds richness and a hint of molasses. Regular granulated sugar works in a pinch.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can make your own blend if needed.
- Baking Powder: Helps the fritters rise and stay fluffy.
- Milk: I use whole milk, but almond or oat milk works beautifully for a dairy-free option.
- Egg: Adds structure and binds the ingredients together. A flax egg can work as a vegan alternative.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the dough. Melted coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Maple Syrup: The base for our glaze. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Creates that silky glaze texture we love.
- Vanilla Extract: Complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully.
Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, but if you’re out of pumpkin pie spice, don’t worry. A quick mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice will do the trick!
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s the equipment you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious fritters:
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one for wet ingredients and another for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: For combining the ingredients evenly.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding the batter without overmixing.
- Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon: Helps portion the fritter batter evenly.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Crucial for letting the fritters cool before glazing.
If you don’t have a cookie scoop, a small spoon works just fine. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, silicone baking mats are a great alternative to parchment paper.
How to Make Baked Pumpkin Spice Fritters
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250g) of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp of pumpkin pie spice, 1 tsp of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1 cup (240g) of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup (100g) of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (50g) of brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup (60ml) of melted butter, and 1/4 cup (60ml) of milk.
- Bring it together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. The batter will be thick—don’t overmix!
- Shape the fritters: Scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet using a cookie scoop or spoon, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make the glaze: While the fritters cool, whisk together 1 cup (120g) of powdered sugar, 2 tbsp (30ml) of maple syrup, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Add a splash of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled fritters and let it set for a few minutes before serving.
And there you have it—warm, spiced fritters with a luscious maple glaze!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are a few tips to ensure your fritters turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the batter can make the fritters dense. Fold gently just until combined.
- Use fresh spices: Spices lose their potency over time, so make sure your pumpkin pie spice is fresh for the best flavor.
- Cool before glazing: If the fritters are too warm, the glaze will melt and slide off.
- Test your oven: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the fritters during the last few minutes of baking.
Variations & Adaptations
Here are some fun ways to adapt this recipe:
- Vegan Version: Use a flax egg and almond milk, and swap the butter for coconut oil.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the batter for a unique twist.
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips before baking.
Feel free to get creative and make these fritters your own!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to store and serve them:
- Serving: Serve warm with a drizzle of glaze and a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, then glaze before serving.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s a rough estimate per fritter:
- Calories: 180
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and antioxidants, making these fritters a healthier option compared to traditional fried treats.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cozy, fall-inspired treat, these Baked Pumpkin Spice Fritters with Maple Glaze are just the thing. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. I love how versatile this recipe is—it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
Give this recipe a try, and let me know how you like it in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media—I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure to puree the cooked pumpkin until smooth and strain out any excess moisture.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store it in the fridge in an airtight container and stir before using.
How do I know when the fritters are done?
They should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I skip the glaze?
You can, but the glaze adds a lovely sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar is a great alternative!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen fritters?
Pop them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, then glaze them while warm.
