If you’re craving a warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated dessert with a crispy exterior and soft, juicy apple on the inside, these Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are the perfect solution. They’re easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and a great alternative to traditional fried treats like donuts. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or as a fun snack, these apple rings are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients for Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
For the Apple Rings:
- 4 large apples (Gala, Honeycrisp, or any variety you prefer)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions: How to Make Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
1. Prepare the Apples
- Peel the apples (optional), then core them using an apple corer or a knife. Slice the apples into rings about ¼-inch thick. Pat the apple rings dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
2. Make the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat the Oil
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to cover the apple rings when frying (about 2 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the top.
4. Coat and Fry the Apple Rings
- Dip each apple ring into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Carefully place the battered apple rings into the hot oil, frying them in batches. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain an even cooking temperature.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the apple rings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, mix together the ⅓ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. While the apple rings are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
6. Serve
- Serve the fried cinnamon apple rings warm and enjoy! For an extra treat, serve with a side of caramel sauce, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.
Cook’s Notes and Tips for Perfect Fried Apple Rings
- Apple Variety: Gala apples work wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite variety like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith (for a tart twist), or Fuji.
- Thicker Slices: Make sure not to slice the apples too thin, as they may become too soft during frying.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature to prevent burning. If the oil gets too hot, the batter may brown too quickly without cooking the apples inside.
Recipe Variations: How to Customize Your Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
This recipe is flexible and allows for several fun and delicious variations to suit your preferences.
Keto-Friendly Fried Apple Rings
For a lower-carb version:
- Flour Substitute: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Sugar Substitute: Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit for both the batter and the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Oil: Use avocado oil for frying, which is keto-approved.
Gluten-Free Fried Apple Rings
For those avoiding gluten:
- Flour Substitute: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace regular flour.
- Batter: Ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Spiced Apple Rings
For a fall-inspired twist:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Dipping Sauces
Serve your fried cinnamon apple rings with:
- Caramel sauce: For a rich, sweet dipping option.
- Vanilla glaze: Drizzle over the apple rings for a more donut-like flavor.
- Chocolate sauce: For a decadent touch.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
Q1: Can I make these apple rings ahead of time?
Yes! While they are best served fresh and warm, you can prepare the apple rings and keep them in an airtight container for a day. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain some crispiness.
Q2: Can I bake the apple rings instead of frying them?
Yes, to make a lighter version, you can bake the apple rings. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Q3: What apples work best for this recipe?
Gala, Fuji, and Honeycrisp apples are great for their sweetness and firmness. Granny Smith apples offer a tangy contrast if you prefer a bit of tartness.
Q4: Can I use a different coating instead of cinnamon sugar?
Yes, for a variation, you can dust the fried apple rings with powdered sugar or drizzle them with caramel or honey for a different flavor profile.
The Ultimate Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
These Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are the perfect snack, dessert, or breakfast treat that blends crispy fried dough with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a cozy evening snack, or a fun brunch idea, these apple rings are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures
