Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are a delightful fall treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar. These crispy, golden rings are a fun twist on classic apple desserts, and they’re perfect for enjoying on a cool autumn day. With a crunchy exterior and a soft, tender apple inside, they’re like mini apple donuts—deliciously comforting and easy to make. Whether served as a dessert or a snack, these apple rings are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, fun, and brings out the best of fall flavors. The combination of crispy fried batter and juicy apples is simply irresistible. Plus, the cinnamon-sugar coating gives each bite a touch of sweetness and warmth. It’s a fun way to enjoy apples and perfect for when you’re craving something simple yet satisfying. Whether served with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these apple rings are an instant hit!
The Recipe
Ingredients:
For the apple rings:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the cinnamon sugar coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Peel and core the apples, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rings. Pat the apple slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Set aside.
- Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the apple rings: Dip each apple ring into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Carefully place the apple rings into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the rings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Coat in cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. While the apple rings are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them evenly.
- Serve: Serve the fried cinnamon apple rings warm, and enjoy! They’re perfect on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these apple rings warm for the best flavor and texture. They make a fantastic dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat. Pair them with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Storage: These apple rings are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up again.
Helpful Notes
- For a fun variation, try dipping the fried apple rings in melted chocolate or drizzle them with caramel sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker batter, add an extra tablespoon of flour for a more doughnut-like coating.
- Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe due to their tart flavor, but you can use sweeter apples like Honeycrisp if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the apple rings instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Simply place the battered apple rings on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! A 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute works well in this recipe for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. How can I make the apple rings less greasy?
Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) before frying. Frying at the right temperature ensures the batter cooks quickly and doesn’t absorb too much oil. Draining the fried rings on paper towels also helps.
4. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
5. What’s the best apple variety for frying?
Granny Smith apples are perfect for frying because of their firm texture and tart flavor, which contrasts nicely with the sweet cinnamon sugar. However, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples also work well.
Final Thoughts
Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are the perfect fall treat that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. The combination of warm cinnamon, crispy batter, and tender apples makes for an irresistible snack or dessert. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with family, these apple rings are sure to be a hit. Try them with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them on their own for a sweet taste of autumn!