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As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a hint of crispness, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, eager to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. That’s when I decided to whip up these Irresistible Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters—an indulgent treat that combines soft, brioche dough with warm, spiced apples for an unforgettable flavor experience. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a festive gathering, surrounded by the aroma of freshly baked goodies and laughter from friends and family.

These fritters are not just desserts; they’re memories in the making. A delightful fusion of sweet apples and a warm bourbon glaze transforms a humble snack into a bakery-style masterpiece that’s perfect for any autumn occasion. Whether served alongside a cup of spiced cider or heaped with vanilla ice cream, these fritters will have everyone reaching for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a show-stopping treat that’s remarkably easy to make and even more delightful to share!

Why are Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters a must-try?

Irresistibly delicious: These fritters blend the warm flavors of fall with the indulgent touch of bourbon, elevating your dessert game to new heights.

Easy to make: With basic ingredients and straightforward techniques, even novice bakers can impress friends and family with this treat.

Versatile flavors: Feel free to customize the filling with different apples or spices, ensuring each batch feels uniquely yours.

Perfect for gatherings: These fritters will steal the show at any fall celebration, leaving your guests raving for more.

Perfect pairing: Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or warm cider for an unforgettable taste experience that captures the essence of autumn.

Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters Ingredients

For the Dough
• Whole Milk – Provides moisture and richness for the brioche; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Active Dry or Instant Yeast – Essential leavening agent for dough rise; none can substitute, but instant yields faster results.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances flavor and activates yeast; can use brown sugar for a slight flavor change.
• Eggs – Adds structure and moisture; flax eggs can be a vegan alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; try almond extract for a twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Main structure for the brioche; bread flour can create a chewier texture.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; switch to sea salt if preferred.
• Unsalted Butter – Enriches the dough for tenderness; margarine can serve as a dairy-free option.

For the Apple Filling
• Honeycrisp Apples – Naturally sweet and flavorful filling; any firm apple like Granny Smith or Fuji works well.
• Lemon Juice – Balances sweetness and prevents apple browning; vinegar in small amounts can substitute.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Provides a richer, caramel flavor; light brown sugar is a suitable alternative.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Allspice, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger, Cardamom) – Adds warmth and depth; use pumpkin spice mix for convenience.

For the Bourbon Glaze
• Bourbon – Adds richness to the glaze and filling; for non-alcoholic, substitute with apple juice.
• Neutral Oil (for frying) – Essential for frying the fritters; canola or vegetable oil can be good substitutes.

How to Make Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters

Activate yeast: Warm the milk gently, then mix in the sugar and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, ensuring your yeast is active and ready to rise.
Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the activated yeast mixture with eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, salt, and softened butter, mixing until fully combined and a soft dough forms.
Test the dough: Perform the windowpane test by stretching a small piece of dough. If it stretches without tearing, it’s ready! Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight to proof.
Prepare apples: While the dough is chilling, sauté diced Honeycrisp apples in a skillet with lemon juice, dark brown sugar, and your chosen spices. Cook until apples are tender but still hold their shape. Let the filling cool completely.
Roll and shape: Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thick. Place spoonfuls of the cooled apple filling on the dough, fold over, and cut into fritter shapes. Allow them to proof again for about 30 minutes.
Fry fritters: Heat neutral oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 355°F (180°C). Gently drop in the fritters, frying until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Glaze the fritters: In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. Dip each warm fritter into the glaze, ensuring they’re well coated, and set aside to let the glaze set.

Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters?

Create a complete fall feast by pairing these delightful, indulgent treats with a variety of complementary flavors and textures sure to please any crowd.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast, melting beautifully over the warm fritters for an irresistible treat.
Spiced Cider: The sweetness of spiced apple cider enhances the apple goodness while echoing the warm spices in your fritters, creating a perfectly cozy atmosphere.
Maple Glazed Bacon: Crispy, sweet bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the sweet fritters, enhancing the overall flavor profile with its smoky richness.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the fritters intensifies their sweetness and adds an extra layer of indulgence, making each bite heavenly.
Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea harmonize wonderfully with the warm spices in the fritters, creating a comforting pairing for a chilly autumn day.
Candied Pecans: Nutty and sweet, these crunchy bites add a delightful textural contrast while enhancing the overall flavor experience of your dessert.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, refreshing fruit salad can cut through the sweetness of the fritters, providing a light, vibrant balance that keeps the meal feeling fresh.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Sip on a seasonal latte infused with warm spices, which mirrors the flavors of the fritters while creating a cozy drink to wind down your gathering.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle some melted chocolate over the fritters, adding richness and a delightful sweetness to each flavorful bite.

These ideas will elevate your Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters to a star attraction on your fall dessert table!

Make Ahead Options

These Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the brioche dough and apple filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, activate the yeast and mix all the wet ingredients with flour and butter. After resting in the fridge overnight, sauté the apples with spices and lemon juice, cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to fry, simply roll out the dough, place the filling, and let them proof for about 30 minutes before frying. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious fritters with minimal effort, maintaining the quality of your flavors and textures!

Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these fritters to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk for almond milk and use dairy-free butter or margarine for a delicious vegan option.
Fruit Swap: Instead of using Honeycrisp apples, try firm fruits like pears or spiced peaches for a twist.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a subtle kick of heat that balances the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for an extra texture that adds a delightful crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these fritters suitable for gluten-sensitive friends while keeping the flavor intact.
Bourbon-Free: Replace bourbon with apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract for a vibrant, non-alcoholic glaze.
Extra Indulgence: Drizzle melted chocolate over the warm fritters instead of or in addition to the bourbon glaze for a decadent chocolate touch.
Air Frying Option: For a healthier take, make these fritters in an air fryer at a high temperature for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.

Storage Tips for Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters

Room Temperature: Enjoy these fritters fresh for the best taste, and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave for a few seconds to restore warmth.
Freezer: Freeze the fritters for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag. For best results, wrap each fritter in plastic wrap before placing in the container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat frozen fritters, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste, or microwave briefly until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters

Choose the Right Apples: Use Honeycrisp for their sweetness and texture. Avoid mushy varieties; they can turn your filling into a sauce instead of a delightful surprise.
Perfect Dough Proofing: Make sure to let your dough proof overnight for the best flavor and texture. Skipping this can lead to denser fritters that lack that airy quality.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the frying oil at 355°F (180°C). If the heat is too low, fritters absorb too much oil; too high, and they’ll brown too quickly without cooking through.
Cool Before Glazing: Let the fritters cool slightly after frying before dipping them in the bourbon glaze. If they’re too hot, the glaze will slide right off!
Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices like cardamom or even adding chopped nuts to the apple filling for an added crunch—just make sure the flavors complement the boozy bourbon apple fritters!

Boozy Bourbon Apple Fritters Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for the filling?
Absolutely! Honeycrisp apples are my go-to for their natural sweetness and firm texture, making them perfect for these fritters. If they aren’t available, feel free to substitute with other firm varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji, which add a nice tartness.

How should I store the fritters?
After enjoying your delicious boozy bourbon apple fritters, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze them! They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, these fritters freeze beautifully! To freeze, wrap each fritter in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This way, they won’t get freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked goodness.

What can I do if my fritters turn out greasy?
The more the merrier in culinary adventures! If your fritters are greasy, it likely means the oil temperature was too low during frying. Aim for 355°F (180°C); use a thermometer for the best results. If they cool down too much before frying, take a short break and allow the oil to heat back up between batches.

Are these fritters safe for pets or those with allergies?
Definitely not! With ingredients like bourbon, sugar, and spices, these aren’t suitable for pets. Additionally, consider any allergies to dairy or gluten when serving, as they contain milk, eggs, and flour. Always check with your guests beforehand to avoid any dietary issues.

What if I don’t have bourbon?
No problem at all! If you’d prefer an alcohol-free version, simply substitute bourbon with apple juice in both the filling and glaze. It adds a lovely fruity flavor that still complements the spiced apples beautifully!