Crispy Cinnamon Apple Rings – A Sweet and Crunchy Delight

Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are the perfect combination of crispy, warm, and sweet, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, a comforting dessert, or even a fun breakfast, these golden-brown apple rings are sure to please. Each bite is packed with the natural sweetness of apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a perfectly crunchy coating. Serve them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Apple Rings:

• 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
• Caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing and drying the apples thoroughly. If you prefer, you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture. Slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick rings and use a small round cutter or a sharp paring knife to remove the cores, creating perfectly shaped rings. Pat the apple slices dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps the batter stick better.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together to distribute the ingredients evenly.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring continuously to form a thick, lump-free batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the apple rings without dripping excessively. If needed, add a little more flour to thicken or a splash of milk to thin it out.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Fry the Apple Rings

Dip each apple ring into the batter, making sure it’s evenly coated. Let any excess batter drip off before carefully placing the rings into the hot oil. Fry in small batches of 2–3 rings at a time to prevent overcrowding.

Fry each ring for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip them halfway through cooking. Once they’re evenly browned, transfer the fried apple rings to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. While the apple rings are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This step enhances their sweetness and gives them that classic cinnamon-spiced flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

For an extra indulgent touch, dust the warm apple rings with powdered sugar or drizzle them with caramel sauce. They’re best served fresh and warm while they’re at their crispiest.

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Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy these crispy apple rings on their own, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special dessert.
• Serve with a side of whipped cream or a dipping sauce like warm caramel or chocolate for added sweetness.
• These apple rings also make a fun and delicious addition to a brunch spread.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover apple rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that they may lose some crispiness over time.
• Reheating: To bring back their crispy texture, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
• Freezing: If you want to store them for longer, freeze the fried apple rings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make These Apple Rings Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to help the batter hold together.

2. What Are the Best Apples for This Recipe?

Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for frying. They hold their shape well and provide a great balance of sweetness and acidity. Avoid softer varieties, as they may become mushy when cooked.

3. Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?

Absolutely! For a healthier version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the batter-coated apple rings in a single layer and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. While they won’t be as crispy as the fried version, they’ll still be delicious!

4. What If My Batter Is Too Thick or Too Thin?

If the batter is too thick and doesn’t coat the apple rings smoothly, add a small amount of milk (one teaspoon at a time) until the consistency is right. If the batter is too thin and drips excessively off the apples, mix in a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up.

5. Can I Use an Air Fryer Instead of Deep Frying?

Yes! To air-fry the apple rings, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket, place the batter-coated apple rings inside in a single layer, and cook for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. How Can I Make These Apple Rings Extra Crispy?

For an extra crispy texture, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dry ingredients before mixing the batter. Also, ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Cinnamon Apple Rings are an easy and fun recipe that combines the natural sweetness of apples with a crispy, golden-brown coating. Whether you make them as a quick snack, a party dessert, or a special treat for brunch, they are sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy a warm, cinnamon-scented delight with every bite!

Would you try this recipe? Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!