Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a mini muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease the pan.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon (if using), and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the blueberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the fritter bites to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Add the Glaze (Optional)
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled fritter bites. Allow glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage
These baked blueberry fritter bites are best served warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect accompaniment to coffee, tea, or milk. For storage:
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted fritter bites in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Perfect Fritter Bites
- Use fresh blueberries for juicier bites, but frozen blueberries work fine. Do not thaw frozen blueberries before adding to batter to prevent excess moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; overmixing can result in dense fritter bites.
- Line your muffin pan with parchment or silicone liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy note.
- If skipping the glaze, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and a pretty finish.
Conclusion
Baked Blueberry Fritter Bites are a convenient, healthier twist on traditional fried fritters without compromising on taste. Bursting with blueberry flavor, tender on the inside, and optionally topped with a sweet glaze, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is versatile, easy to follow, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
FAQ
1. Can I make these fritter bites vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based milk for the buttermilk.
2. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but do not thaw them first. Toss frozen blueberries lightly in flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the batter.
3. Can I make larger fritters instead of bite-sized?
Absolutely! Use a standard muffin pan or a round baking dish. Increase baking time to 25–30 minutes for larger fritters.
4. How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
5. Can I add other fruits?
Yes! Raspberries, chopped strawberries, or diced apples work well. Adjust sugar slightly depending on the sweetness of the fruit.