Fried Apple Rings

These fried apple rings are a delightful treat — crisp and golden on the outside, tender and sweet on the inside, with a hint of cinnamon sugar that makes them irresistible. Ideal as a dessert, breakfast treat, or cozy snack — especially when served warm.

Why You’ll Love Them

Crispy, crunchy coating that contrasts with soft apple interiors
Simple ingredients and quick prep — perfect for a last-minute treat
Comforting, warm flavor with hints of cinnamon and sugar, great for fall or cold weather
Versatile: serve as dessert, snack, or even breakfast — gets rave feedback every time

Ingredients

3–4 firm apples (such as Granny Smith, Gala, or Golden Delicious)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (or enough to make a smooth batter)
1 large egg
1–2 tbsp sugar (for batter)
A pinch of salt
Vegetable oil (for frying, enough to cover rings)
½ cup granulated sugar + 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
Optional: pinch of vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Wash the apples, peel them if desired, and slice them into about 1/4-inch thick rounds. Use a cookie cutter or small round cutter to remove the core from each slice, creating rings.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, egg, sugar, salt — and vanilla extract if using — until smooth and lump-free. The batter should be slightly thick but still able to coat the apple slices evenly.

Step 3: Coat the Apple Rings

Heat the oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to medium-high heat. Dip each apple ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully lower into the hot oil.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Fry the rings in batches — don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the rings are still warm, toss them in a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon — this gives them a sweet, spiced coating that complements the warm apple inside.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Fried apple rings are best enjoyed right away, while still warm and crispy. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or simply a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

Choose firm, slightly tart apples — they hold their shape better when fried.
Make sure the oil is hot before frying; too cool and the rings will absorb oil and become soggy.
For extra indulgence, serve with ice cream, whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt.
Try a sweeter batter by adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for more flavor depth.
For a lighter version, you can bake instead of fry: arrange batter-coated rings on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake until golden and crisp.