Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
Delightful Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings featuring a crispy exterior and tender apple interior. Perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Apples
- 3 large large firm apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith) Sweet and tart apples provide the perfect crunch and juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Optional, adds brightness and helps maintain color.
Batter Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Creates a light, crispy batter.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Enhances the flavor of the batter.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Provides lift for a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses the batter with warm spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds depth and cozy flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt Balances sweetness.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk Keeps the batter moist.
- 1 large egg Binds the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds sweetness and warmth.
Frying and Coating
- 4 cups neutral oil Or enough for 1 inch in the skillet.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar For coating the finished apple rings.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon For coating apple rings.
- Powdered sugar or caramel sauce Optional, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash, peel (if desired), and core the apples. Slice them into 1/4-inch rings.
- Toss apple slices lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping ahead, and pat them dry.
- In a shallow bowl, stir together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon for coating.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Combine wet ingredients with dry, mixing until smooth.
Cooking
- Heat enough neutral oil in a heavy skillet to reach a depth of 1 inch, until it reaches 350°F.
- Dip apple rings in batter, allowing excess to drip off, and fry in small batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain fried apple rings on paper towels or a wire rack, then toss in cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm.
- Serve immediately, optionally topping with powdered sugar or caramel sauce.
Notes
To ensure crispy rings, dry them well before battering and avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.