Apricot Fritters
Juicy apricot halves are dipped in a light batter and fried to golden perfection, creating sweet, crispy fritters that are perfect for a delightful treat or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dry apricot halves on paper toweling until as dry as possible.
- Beat egg with milk; stir in the melted shortening.
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; add to egg mixture and stir just until mixed.
- Dip apricots in batter.
- Fry a few at a time in deep shortening heated to 365°F until fritters are brown, about 4 minutes, turning once.
- Drain on paper toweling.
- Roll in confectioners sugar and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter batter, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour. If apricot halves are unavailable, canned peaches or pears can be substituted. Ensure the oil is hot enough (365°F) to achieve a crispy exterior. For added flavor, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the batter. Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve apricot fritters warm, dusted with confectioners' sugar, and pair them with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. They also make a delightful breakfast alongside coffee or tea. Consider serving with a side of Sour Cream Crescent Rolls for a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Fritters contains roughly 1420 calories, with 15g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (57% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2513mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apricots instead of canned?
Yes, fresh apricots can be used, but ensure they are ripe and sweet. Slice them in half and remove the pit, then proceed with the drying and battering steps as usual. Fresh apricots may require slightly less cooking time, so monitor them closely while frying.
How do I know when the fritters are done frying?
For a sweeter finish, consider rolling the fritters in cinnamon sugar instead of plain confectioners' sugar.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it's best to prepare the batter fresh for optimal texture, you can mix the dry ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply add the wet ingredients to create the batter. This saves time and allows you to enjoy freshly fried fritters.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).