Crispy Fried Pear Fritters: A Sweet, Golden Snack

It's rainy afternoons, the smell of fried batter wafting through the air, and tea in hand that reminds of the small pleasures. Crispy fried pear fritters make great accompaniments during such cozy times, maintaining the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Pear fritters are a creative twist on classic fried treats, combining the natural sweetness of pears with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite is a balancing contrast: the crisp, golden shell and the soft, juicy pear center. Simple enough to whip up yet indulgent enough for special moments, they are perfect for serving with your favorite beverages or enjoying as a dessert after a hearty meal.

Let's go step by step through how to make these crispy fried pear fritters, along with some suggestions for how to put the entire snacking experience together.

Recipe for Crispy Fried Pear Fritters

Ingredients

For the Fritters

• 2 large ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For Frying

• Oil for deep frying
• For the Topping
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• Ground cinnamon for dusting 

Method:

Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar and a pinch of salt for the batter. Whisk together milk, a large egg, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract separately and then pour into dry ingredients. Stir until batter is smooth and there's no lump in the mixture.

Dice the pears into little pieces to make sure that they will fry evenly; fold gently into the batter, just enough to make sure they get a good coat without crushing these delicate fruits.

Heat oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to 175°C. Using a spoon, drop spoonful of the pear-batter mixture into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fritters until they are golden brown on all sides, turning them occasionally for even cooking. When done, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.

To finish, dust the fritters with a generous amount of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Alternative Pairings to Add

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

Take the natural sweetness of the fritters to the next level by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top. The buttery richness of caramel pairs wonderfully with the juicy pears, making for a rich dessert. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence.

Spiced Chai Latte

Pair these crispy pear fritters with a steaming cup of spiced chai latte. The bold flavors of cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon in the chai balance out the sweetness of the fritters, making this combination a comforting treat.

Vanilla Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream infused with a hint of vanilla flavor is perfect with fritters. The creaminess contrasts with the crisp texture that makes it a balanced and elegant serving option for brunch or high tea.

Storage Tips

To store leftover pear fritters, let them cool entirely at room temperature. Package the fritters into an airtight container with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and chill for up to two days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the fritters. Put them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until firm. You can then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or container, making sure there is minimal air exposure. Fritters can be frozen for up to one month.

To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to revive their crispiness. Put the refrigerated or thawed fritters in a baking sheet and heat it in a preheated oven at 180°C for 8-10 minutes. Do not microwave since this will make the fritters soggy. Dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving for a just-made look.