Description
Cinnamon Apple Rings are a delightful fall treat featuring crisp apple slices dipped in a spiced batter and fried to golden perfection. Coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these warm, crispy rings are perfect for serving alone or alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 4 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith)
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly under running water to remove any wax or dirt.
- Core and Slice: Using a sharp knife or apple corer, carefully remove the core from each apple, keeping the apple intact. Slice each apple into 1/4-inch thick rings.
- Prevent Browning (Optional): Place the apple rings on a plate or cutting board and optionally sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent browning while preparing batter.
- Make Dry Batter Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt; whisk until evenly mixed.
- Make Wet Batter Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Combine Batter: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Do not overmix; a few lumps are desirable.
- Rest Batter: Let the batter sit for about 10 minutes to achieve a fluffier texture when frying.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon thoroughly; set aside.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Batter Apple Rings: Dip each apple ring into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated, then allow excess batter to drip off.
- Fry Apple Rings: Carefully place each battered apple ring into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and fry another 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove fried apple rings from the oil and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, toss the apple rings in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Repeat & Serve: Continue frying and coating remaining apple rings in batches. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
Notes
- Using Granny Smith apples provides a tart flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet cinnamon coating.
- Sprinkling lemon juice on sliced apples helps prevent browning if you prepare ahead.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and to prevent soggy rings.
- You can use a deep fryer instead of a skillet if preferred, adjusting oil quantity accordingly.
- Serve immediately after coating for best texture; leftovers can be reheated but may lose crispiness.
