Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites are a cozy, flavorful treat that brings together the sweetness of pumpkin and the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—all in a crispy, bite-sized form. Unlike traditional fried fritters, these are baked for a healthier option without compromising on taste or texture. Perfect for fall, they make a great snack or dessert to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites are soft and tender on the inside with a slight crisp on the outside, all thanks to a simple baking method. Infused with the flavors of pumpkin and classic fall spices, they deliver that comforting, seasonal flavor without the mess of frying. They’re quick to make, full of flavor, and a lighter option for indulging in pumpkin season treats!
Ingredients
For the Fritter Bites:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
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1 large egg
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1/4 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Make the Fritter Bites:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.
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Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough will be thick, but if it seems too dry, you can add a splash more milk to reach a thick, scoopable consistency.
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Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans, if using.
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Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should get about 12-15 fritter bites.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fritter bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool for a few minutes.
Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
8. While the fritter bites are baking, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
9. Once the fritters are out of the oven, gently toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they’re still warm to coat them completely.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 12-15 fritter bites. Prep time is 10 minutes, bake time is 12-15 minutes, so they’ll be ready in about 25 minutes.
Variations
I like to:
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Add a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the batter for extra flavor.
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Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a sweeter finish.
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Substitute the walnuts or pecans with your favorite nuts or even raisins for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritter bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to regain their crispness.
FAQs
Can I fry these fritter bites instead of baking them?
Yes, you can fry them! Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the fritter bites for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Can I make these fritter bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the fritter bites ahead of time, store them in an airtight container, and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. They taste just as delicious when reheated!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend for a gluten-free version. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still taste delicious!
Conclusion
Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites are a delightful, lighter alternative to traditional fritters. With the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, these bites are perfect for fall. They’re quick to make, healthier than the fried version, and a fun way to enjoy all the best flavors of the season! Whether you’re snacking, serving them at a party, or enjoying them with a warm beverage, these fritter bites are sure to be a hit!
