These cinnamon apple fritters are warm, fluffy donuts packed with sweet apple chunks and a sprinkle of cinnamon goodness. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack!
Honestly, who can resist a soft fritter dusted in sugar? I love making them on chilly days when the house needs a sweet aroma. They disappear fast, and I can’t blame anyone! 🍏🍩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: A staple for fritter recipes, it gives structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness, but you can reduce the amount for a less sweet fritter. Coconut sugar is a good alternative for a more caramel-like flavor.
Buttermilk: It adds moisture and tang. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing milk with a little vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Apples: Sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best in this recipe. For a different texture, feel free to swap for pears or even diced peaches.
Vegetable Oil: It’s essential for frying. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, you might try coconut oil or canola oil, but make sure to maintain appropriate frying temperature!
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Fried Fritters?
Frying can be tricky, but here are some tips to get golden, crispy fritters every time:
- Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the batter. A thermometer is really helpful here!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry just a few fritters at a time to prevent the temperature from dropping.
- Keep an eye on the fritters as they fry. Turn them only when they are brown on one side, usually 2-3 minutes per side.
- Draining them on paper towels helps get rid of extra oil. This keeps them crispy and not greasy!
With these tips, you’ll master the art of frying and make the most delicious cinnamon apple fritters. Enjoy!
Cinnamon Apple Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to fry the fritters. With just a little patience, you’ll have delicious cinnamon apple fritters ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This ensures everything is well combined before adding the wet ingredients.
2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Mix them together until everything is well combined. This mixture will give moisture and flavor to your fritters!
3. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
4. Adding the Apples:
Now, fold in the finely chopped apples gently. This will distribute the apple pieces evenly throughout the fritter batter, adding delicious flavor in every bite.
5. Heating the Oil:
In a deep pan or skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in a small bit of batter—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re ready to go!
6. Frying the Fritters:
Carefully drop spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the batter into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Draining the Fritters:
Once they’re golden, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help soak up any excess oil.
8. Making the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk; if it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar to get your desired consistency.
9. Glazing the Fritters:
While the fritters are still warm, drizzle or brush them with the glaze. This adds a sweet finish to each fritter.
10. Serving:
Serve your cinnamon apple fritters warm and enjoy! They make a delightful treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time you’re craving something sweet.
This recipe yields crispy, tender fritters with a delightful apple-cinnamon flavor and a shiny glaze. Happy frying!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While I recommend using sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor, you can also try Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast. Just make sure to peel and core them first!
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Can I Make the Glaze Without Milk?
Yes! If you want to skip the milk, you can use water or a dairy-free milk alternative instead. Just be sure to adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency.