If you’re craving something crisp, sweet, and irresistibly cozy, Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are about to become your favorite new treat. Slices of juicy apples are tucked inside golden batter, then tumbled in fragrant cinnamon sugar while they’re still steamy from the fryer. Every bite is crunchy on the outside, tender in the middle, and tastes like autumn at the local fair—no matter what time of year it is! Whether you’re planning a fun dessert or looking for a new way to enjoy apples, Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings turn a simple ingredient into pure comfort food magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the simple, classic ingredients that make Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings so irresistible. Each one is essential—not just for building flavor, but also for nailing that perfect crispy texture and warm, fragrant finish. Grab these pantry staples and you’re halfway to snack-time happiness!
- Apples: Choose Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their balance of tartness and sweetness, plus they hold their shape after frying.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your batter, giving it the right body to coat each apple ring beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Both in the batter and the coating, sugar brings sweetness and creates that signature caramelized crunch.
- Ground cinnamon: Don’t skimp—this is where that unmistakable warm spice comes from, making your kitchen smell heavenly.
- Baking powder: Just a touch lifts the batter, resulting in a lighter, puffier crust.
- Salt: A pinch adds depth and balances all the sweet notes.
- Milk: Helps the batter come together silky-smooth for even coating.
- Large egg: Binds everything in the batter together and gives it richness.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, sweet undertones that round out the flavors.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Make sure you have enough for a shallow bath—neutral-flavored oil works best.
- Extra granulated sugar (for coating): Gives every bite a sparkle and crunch when mixed with cinnamon.
- Extra ground cinnamon (for coating): Don’t forget this—rolling your rings while they’re warm infuses each bite with even more spice.
How to Make Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by peeling your apples, which ensures a tender bite in every ring. Use a corer to cleanly remove the center, then slice into rings roughly ¼-inch thick. Uniform slices help all your Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings cook evenly and look beautiful on the platter.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This blend is the backbone of the batter, giving you plenty of flavor and just the right lift for crispiness.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. This mixture will bring all the batter ingredients together while adding richness and a smooth consistency—no lumps here!
Step 4: Make the Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir together gently just until it’s smooth—don’t overmix, or you could end up with heavy rings. Your goal is a batter that lightly clings to the apple slices.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot and bring to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. For the best Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings, temperature matters! Use a food thermometer for accuracy or test with a small drop of batter: it should sizzle and bob to the top quickly.
Step 6: Fry the Apple Rings
Dip each apple ring into the batter, letting any excess drip off. Gently place them into the hot oil without crowding (about 2–3 at a time). Fry 1–2 minutes per side, turning with a slotted spoon when golden brown. Remove and let drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While your rings are still warm (not hot—just cozy!), roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until lavishly coated. This finishing touch makes Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings delightfully crunchy and fragrant.
How to Serve Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce makes Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings look gorgeous and taste even more decadent. For a fresh twist, try scattering finely chopped toasted nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—your friends will swoon!
Side Dishes
Pair these apple rings with coffee, spiced hot cider, or tea for a cozy snack-time treat. For dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling extra, chocolate ganache or maple yogurt dip adds a grown-up spin.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings in a tower for a playful party centerpiece, or skewer them on sticks for fun, fair-style snacking. Arrange them in a circle over a rustic wooden board and scatter fresh apple slices or edible flowers for a dramatic, Instagram-worthy dessert platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any rings left (it’s rare!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about a day, or in the fridge for up to three days. The sugar coating may soften a bit, but the flavor will still be spot on.
Freezing
To freeze Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat straight from the freezer for easy snacking anytime.
Reheating
For best results, reheat apple rings in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until hot and re-crisped. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the coating. A quick stint in the air fryer is another great option for reviving that perfect crunch!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are favorites for their tartness and texture, you can use any firm apple variety you enjoy. Just avoid apples that are too soft, as they might fall apart during frying.
How can I make Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. The result should be just as crisp and delicious—check that your baking powder is gluten-free, too, just to be safe.
Do I need a deep fryer?
Not at all! A heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet works perfectly for making Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings. Just keep an eye on the oil temperature for the best, crispy results.
Can I make the batter in advance?
It’s best to prepare the batter just before frying to keep it light and airy. If you need to get ahead, you can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them right before you’re ready to fry.
Are Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! These apple rings contain no meat products, and all the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy this sweet treat with everyone at your table.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to turn a simple apple into something extraordinary, Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings are the way to go. They’re a nostalgic, cozy treat that’s guaranteed to bring smiles—whether for dessert, afternoon snack, or a special fall gathering. Give them a try and let the sweet cinnamon aroma fill your kitchen!
Print
Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 apple rings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the delightful crunch of these Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings, a perfect sweet treat that combines tender apples with a crispy coating of cinnamon sugar. These rings are easy to make and are a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall.
Ingredients
For the Apple Rings:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- vegetable oil for frying
For Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch thick rings.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Make Batter: Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Fry Apple Rings: Heat oil to 350°F, dip apple rings in batter, fry until golden brown.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Mix sugar and cinnamon, toss fried apple rings in the mixture while warm. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Best served warm.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for extra flavor.
- Serve with caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream for a dessert version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ring
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
