Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Fried Apple Rings
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these cinnamon sugar apple rings deliver a nostalgic flavor that combines the comfort of homemade donuts with the wholesome goodness of fresh apples. These Fried Apple Rings come together in minutes, creating a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for everything from after-school snacks to elegant dinner party desserts.
Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
- Thermometer (optional)
- Slotted Spoon
- Wire Rack
- Apple Corer
Ingredients
Apple Rings
- 4 large firm apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work best
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch creates extra crispiness
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups cold sparkling water the carbonation creates a lighter batter
- 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional, adds depth
Instructions
- Wash and core your apples carefully. Use an apple corer to remove the center, then slice the apples horizontally into 1/4-inch thick rings. Pat the slices dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 cup sugar until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the vanilla extract and sparkling water. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula, being careful not to overmix – stop when a few small lumps remain.
- Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to a depth of approximately 1.5 inches. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix together 1 cup granulated sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg for the coating.
- Working in batches of 3-4 rings at a time, dip each apple ring into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully lower into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the fried rings using a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack with paper towels underneath.
- While still hot (but not burning), toss each ring in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
Too thin apple slices will become overly crisp; too thick and they won't cook through before the batter browns.
If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter in – it should sizzle immediately and rise to the surface.
For a healthier alternative, try air frying at 375°F for 7-9 minutes, or bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes per side.
These treats lose 50% of their texture quality within 30 minutes of frying, so serve fresh for best results.
Nutrition
Calories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 105mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18g
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