Peach fritters are a delightful and indulgent treat, perfect for using fresh, juicy peaches during the summer. These golden, crispy fritters are fried to perfection and drizzled with a sweet glaze, making them a wonderful dessert or a sweet snack.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 cup fresh peaches, diced
• Oil for frying

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.

Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth. Gently fold in the diced peaches.

Heat the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, cooking in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and serve immediately.

Nutrients

Calories: 220 kcal

Carbohydrates: 35g

Protein: 3g

Fat: 9g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 35mg

Sodium: 200mg

Sugar: 20g

Fiber: 1g

Enjoy these delicious peach fritters as a sweet end to your meal or as a delightful summer snack!

A Brief History of Fritters

Fritters have a long and rich history, with variations found in many cultures worldwide. The concept of frying dough can be traced back centuries, with recipes appearing in ancient Roman texts. Over time, different regions added their own twist to the fritter concept, incorporating various fruits, vegetables, and spices. Peach fritters, in particular, became popular in the southern United States, where peaches are abundant during the summer months.

Why Choose Peach Fritters?

Peach fritters offer a unique combination of flavors and textures. The fresh peaches bring a natural sweetness and juiciness, contrasting beautifully with the crispy fried dough. Additionally, the light cinnamon seasoning adds a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.

Not only are peach fritters delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enjoyed as a sweet breakfast alongside a cup of coffee, or even paired with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a simple treat.

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in peach fritters plays an essential role in creating their signature flavor and texture. The flour provides structure, while sugar adds sweetness and aids in achieving the golden brown crust. Baking powder serves as the leavening agent, ensuring the fritters remain light and airy. Cinnamon enhances the natural flavor of the peaches, adding a hint of spice that complements the sweetness.

Milk, eggs, and melted butter contribute to the rich, tender texture of the fritters. Meanwhile, the fresh peaches provide bursts of juicy flavor in every bite. Lastly, the glaze, made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, adds a glossy finish and extra sweetness.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Peach Fritters

To ensure your peach fritters turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips:

• Choose Ripe Peaches: Opt for fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch and fragrant.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). Too hot, and the fritters will burn on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. Too cool, and they may absorb excess oil.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the fritters in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and maintains the oil temperature.
• Drain Properly: After frying, place the fritters on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, resulting in a lighter, less greasy treat.
• Apply Glaze While Warm: Drizzle the glaze over the fritters while they are still warm for the best adherence and a glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Peach fritters are delightful on their own, but there are several ways to elevate your serving experience:

• With Ice Cream: Serve them alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla or peach ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• With Fresh Fruit: Garnish with extra peach slices or berries for added freshness.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream complements the fritters beautifully.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy them as a sweet accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of peach fritters, consider the following alternatives:

• Baking Instead of Frying: Bake the fritters in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Air Frying: Use an air fryer for a lower-fat version. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Using Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reducing Sugar: Adjust the sugar quantity in both the batter and the glaze to suit your preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Peach fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later enjoyment. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to four days or freeze for up to a month.

To reheat, place the fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can warm them in an air fryer for a quicker option.

Conclusion

Peach fritters are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer. Their crispy exterior, tender interior, and bursts of juicy peach make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you serve them as a dessert, breakfast treat, or afternoon snack, these fritters are sure to bring joy to your table. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy homemade peach fritters that taste as good as those from a bakery.

Next time you have fresh peaches on hand, consider whipping up a batch of these irresistible fritters. Their golden, glazed perfection will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite of this sweet, satisfying treat!