Description
Cinnamon Apple Rings are a delightful fall treat featuring crisp apple slices dipped in a light cinnamon-spiced batter, then fried to golden perfection and coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Perfect for a cozy snack or dessert, these sweet and crispy apple rings are best served warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream.
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
Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash the apples thoroughly under running water to remove any wax or dirt. Using a sharp knife or an apple corer, carefully remove the core from each apple, keeping the apple intact. Slice each apple into 1/4-inch thick rings. Optionally, sprinkle the rings with lemon juice to prevent browning while you prepare the batter.
- Make the dry batter mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until they are well combined, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
- Prepare the wet batter mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended.
- Combine batter ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Avoid overmixing; it’s okay to have a few lumps to keep the batter light and fluffy.
- Let the batter rest: Set the batter aside for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the batter to thicken slightly and results in a fluffier texture when fried.
- Prepare cinnamon-sugar coating: In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon until thoroughly combined. Set this mixture aside for coating the fried apple rings.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer ensures the oil is at the optimal frying temperature.
- Dip apple rings in batter: Take one apple ring and dip it into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let excess batter drip off before frying to avoid clumps.
- Fry the apple rings: Carefully place the battered apple ring into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown. Then flip and fry the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried apple ring from the oil and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil and keep the rings crisp.
- Coat with cinnamon-sugar: While still warm, toss the apple ring in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly. Repeat the frying and coating process with the remaining apple rings in batches, ensuring the oil temperature remains consistent.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon apple rings warm as a delicious snack or dessert. For an indulgent twist, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor that balances the sweet batter and cinnamon sugar.
- Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) is crucial to frying the rings properly without them absorbing too much oil.
- You can sprinkle the apple rings with lemon juice before slicing to prevent browning, though this is optional.
- Use a thermometer to accurately gauge oil temperature for best results.
- This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and warm for optimal crispness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
