If you’re in the mood for a cozy, sweet treat, these Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are sure to hit the spot. With their golden-brown, crispy exterior and soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated apple centers, they’re the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time!
Ingredients
For the Apple Rings:
- 4 large apples (Gala, Honeycrisp, or your preferred variety)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk (or a substitute—see tips)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the buttermilk until smooth.
- Slowly combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and thick. Set aside.
Step 2: Slice the Apples
- Core the apples and slice them into ¼-inch-thick rings.
- Use a small round cutter or knife to remove the center of each apple slice, creating ring-shaped pieces.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan.
- Heat the oil over medium heat to 350°F. To test the temperature, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
Step 4: Coat and Fry
- Dip each apple ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Carefully place the coated apple rings into the hot oil, frying them in small batches.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the rings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- In a shallow dish, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
- While the apple rings are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
Tips for the Best Fried Apple Rings
Buttermilk Substitute
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Keep the Oil Hot
Make sure the oil stays around 350°F for the crispiest results. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Alternative Coatings
For a fun twist, try dipping the fried apple rings in a powdered sugar glaze or drizzling them with caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Variations
Pumpkin Spice Apple Rings
Replace the cinnamon in the batter and cinnamon sugar coating with pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired treat.
Caramel Glaze
Drizzle the warm apple rings with a rich caramel sauce before tossing them in cinnamon sugar for an indulgent twist.
Nutty Apple Rings
Stir in finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
Baked Apple Rings
If you prefer a healthier version, bake the apple rings at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite variety of apple. Gala, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji all work well, though each will offer a slightly different taste and texture.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is optional. Leaving the peel on adds texture and color to the rings, but you can peel them for a smoother finish if preferred.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 4 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a stir before using.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover apple rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Conclusion
These Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are a warm, comforting treat that everyone will love. With a golden, crispy coating and a sweet, cinnamon-sugar finish, they’re perfect for any occasion. Serve them fresh with ice cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, or enjoy them on their own as a snack. However you serve them, they’re sure to be a hit!