Irresistible Fried Apple Rings
Transform simple apples into a delightful treat with this easy Fried Apple Rings recipe. The crispy, golden exterior and tender apple interior, combined with warm cinnamon, make this a perfect dessert or snack. Enjoy them dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with maple syrup or caramel sauce.
Equipment
- Apple corer or knife
- Cutting board
- Medium-sized bowl
- Whisk
- Large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot
- Thermometer (optional)
- slotted spoon or tongs
- Wire rack
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 2 large apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting optional
- Maple syrup, for drizzling optional
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling optional
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the apples.
- Using an apple corer, remove the core from each apple. If you don't have an apple corer, carefully use a knife to cut around the core.
- Slice the apples into rings that are approximately 1/4-inch thick. Aim for even thickness so they cook uniformly.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Pour enough vegetable oil or canola oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot to reach a depth of about 1 inch.
- Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it. If the batter sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
- Dip each apple ring into the batter, making sure to coat it completely. Let any excess batter drip off before carefully placing the ring into the hot oil.
- Fry the apple rings in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rings.
- Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fried apple rings from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- While the apple rings are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! You can also drizzle them with maple syrup or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
For best results, use slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. To avoid soggy apple rings, ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) and don't overcrowd the skillet. Store leftover fried apple rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Variations: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter; incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon; or add a tablespoon of chopped pecans or walnuts. Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a tangy cream cheese dip.