Crispy, golden apple rings coated in a sweet cinnamon batter make for a warm and comforting treat. These Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings have a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, with a light, airy batter that crisps up beautifully. Whether as a dessert or a fun snack, they are sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup milk (or milk alternative)
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons sugar
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar and cinnamon (for dusting)
Directions
Peel and core the apples, then slice them into ¼-inch thick rings.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat until hot (about 350°F or 175°C).
Dip each apple ring into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated.
Carefully place the battered apple rings in the hot oil and fry for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Dust with powdered sugar and extra cinnamon while still warm.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
Gluten-Free: I swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these apple rings gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: I use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
Extra Crunchy: I add a bit of cornstarch (about 1 tablespoon) to the batter for an even crispier texture.
Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce takes these apple rings to the next level.
Spiced Sugar Coating: Instead of just powdered sugar, I mix cinnamon and granulated sugar for a crunchy, flavorful coating.
Storage/Reheating
These apple rings are best enjoyed fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these apple rings in an air fryer?
Yes! I place the battered apple rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What type of apples work best?
I prefer Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples because they hold their shape and have a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
I don't recommend making the batter too far in advance, as the baking powder may lose its effectiveness. However, I can mix the dry ingredients ahead and add the wet ingredients when ready to fry.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, I bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy, but they will still taste great.
What can I serve with fried apple rings?
I love serving them with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.
Conclusion
Fried cinnamon apple rings are a simple yet irresistible treat with crispy, golden batter and warm, spiced apples inside. Whether fried, air-fried, or baked, they make a delicious snack or dessert. I love how versatile they are, and they always bring a comforting sweetness to my day.
Recipe:
Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and golden, these fried cinnamon apple rings are coated in a sweet cinnamon batter and fried to perfection. With a warm, spiced apple center and a light, crispy coating, this easy dessert or snack is perfect for fall or any time you're craving something sweet and comforting. Serve with powdered sugar, caramel sauce, or ice cream for an irresistible treat!
Ingredients
2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup milk (or milk alternative)
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons sugar
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar and cinnamon (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel and core the apples, then slice them into ¼-inch thick rings.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Make Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Heat Oil: Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- Coat and Fry: Dip each apple ring into the batter, ensuring full coverage. Fry for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Dust: Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon while warm.
- Serve & Enjoy! Best enjoyed immediately while crispy.
Notes
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
Extra Crunchy: Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter.
Caramel Drizzle: Elevate the flavor with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Baking Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 220 kcal
