These Cinnamon Apple Fritters are warm, sweet, and full of yummy apple chunks! Lightly fried and rolled in cinnamon sugar, they’re perfect for a cozy snack.
I’ll admit, I have a hard time stopping at just one. They smell amazing while cooking, and the sweetness makes them hard to resist! 😋
Making these fritters is so much fun! I love enjoying them fresh out of the frying pan, maybe with a scoop of ice cream on top. Happy cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose Flour: This is the base of the fritter dough. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour, which often works well in recipes like this.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the fritters. You could substitute brown sugar for a bit of a richer flavor, or use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are fantastic for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. You can also try Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter touch, or even pears for a different flavor.
Cinnamon: A must-have spice in this recipe! If you’re a fan of warmth, adding a touch of cardamom can enhance the flavor. If you worry about spice, just stick to cinnamon!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Fried Fritters?
Frying can be tricky, but here are my tips to ensure you get crispy and delicious fritters:
- Use a deep skillet or fryer, ensuring you have at least 2 inches of oil. This prevents sticking and helps them cook evenly.
- Check your oil temperature with a cooking thermometer. If it’s too low, the fritters will absorb oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn too quickly.
- Drop in the batter gently using a spoon, and avoid overcrowding. Cook in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent.
- Turn the fritters halfway through cooking for even browning. Once golden brown, remove them promptly to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 20-25 minutes for frying. Altogether, you should set aside around 35-40 minutes to make these delicious cinnamon apple fritters.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if you’re using it) until everything is evenly combined.
2. Blend the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly. Then, add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until they’re well combined. It’s okay if the mixture is a bit frothy.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed—make sure not to overmix! The batter should be a bit lumpy. Then, fold in the chopped apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4. Prepare the Oil:
In a deep, heavy skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have one, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—if it bubbles and rises, you’re ready to fry!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter (about 2 tablespoons each) into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry a few fritters at a time. Fry them until they are golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side, turning them if necessary for even cooking.
6. Drain and Dust:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. While the fritters are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These cinnamon apple fritters are best enjoyed warm! Serve them as a delightful snack or dessert, and treat yourself to the deliciousness of this cozy treat!
These fritters are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside with tender apple pieces, and have a lovely cinnamon warmth that makes them perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be denser. You might want to add a little extra milk to maintain the batter consistency because whole wheat absorbs more liquid.
What Variations Can I Try with This Recipe?
You can experiment with different spices! Adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom can add a delightful twist. Additionally, you can substitute apples with pears or even use a mix of diced fruits for variety. For a little crunch, consider adding chopped nuts!
How to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week—just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to rejuvenate their crispiness before serving.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Fritters?
Yes, you can bake these fritters! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place dollops of batter on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. They may not be as crisp as fried fritters but still delicious!