Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites
Baked Pumpkin Fritter Bites are a cozy, guilt-free fall treat featuring the natural sweetness of pumpkin combined with warm spices and a tender, crispy texture. Baked instead of fried, these versatile fritters are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, offering a deliciously balanced flavor that’s loved by kids and adults alike.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: About 18-20 fritters 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond/oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs for vegan)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Prepare Your Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg if using. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and olive oil or melted butter. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold just until combined. The batter should be thick but scoopable. Chill the batter for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors and ease shaping.
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Form and Bake the Fritters: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop batter portions onto the sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Allow fritters to cool slightly on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep fritters tender and avoid toughness.
- Use fresh or canned pumpkin puree with no additives for best flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform fritters that bake evenly.
- Watch bake time carefully to prevent drying out the fritters.
- Chilling the batter helps fritters hold their shape and intensifies the spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 fritters
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: pumpkin, fritters, baked fritters, fall recipe, healthy snack, gluten free, vegetarian, vegan option