Chef Mitchell preparing Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings during a family gathering in my childhood. I spent countless weekends assisting my grandma in the kitchen, learning to perfect this recipe. The warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar evokes cherished memories. Now, I love sharing this treat with friends and family, making it a staple in my dessert repertoire."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I specialize in creating delicious dessert recipes. My culinary journey began in a small town, where I learned to appreciate the art of baking. I love experimenting with flavors and textures to create unforgettable dishes that everyone can enjoy.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings served on a plate

Why This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it combines the classic flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the freshness of apples, creating a delightful contrast. The batter gives the rings a light and crispy texture that perfectly complements the soft apple inside. It's a simple yet satisfying dessert that appeals to all ages.

The technique of frying the apple rings in a well-heated oil ensures they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crunch. Dipping them in cinnamon sugar while warm allows the sweetness to cling, enhancing the overall flavor. The result is a treat that is both comforting and delicious, making it a favorite for any occasion.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. If it's not hot enough, the apple rings can absorb too much oil, making them greasy. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). This will help achieve that perfect golden-brown color and crisp texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the apple rings and batter ahead of time. Store the sliced apples in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. When you're ready to serve, simply dip and fry them fresh for the best texture. However, it's best to coat them in sugar just before serving to keep them crispy.

You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous. Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or yogurt can be used as an egg replacement in this recipe, providing moisture and binding.

The apple rings are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also test one by removing it from the oil and letting it cool slightly before tasting. The apple should be tender but not mushy. If they need more time, return them to the oil for another minute or two.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked apple rings. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which will help restore their crispiness.

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Drizzling warm caramel sauce on top adds an extra layer of sweetness. Pairing them with a cup of hot cider or tea makes for a cozy treat.

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer to retain crispness, as reheating in the microwave may make them soggy.

While the rings taste best fresh, you can prepare the batter and sliced apples in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to fry. This makes for a quicker preparation during gatherings or busy nights.

The best way to reheat Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings is in an oven or air fryer. Preheat to about 350°F (175°C) and place the apple rings on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soft.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the apple rings come out too dry, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: To prevent this, monitor the cook time closely and remove the rings from the oil once they are golden brown. Additionally, ensure your batter is not too thick, which can also lead to dryness.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the apple rings aren't crispy, it may be because the oil temperature was too low.

Solution: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. A thermometer can help you achieve the right temperature of about 350°F (175°C). Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked apple rings can turn dark and hard.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the color and texture of the rings while frying. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady frying temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the apple rings are burnt on the outside but raw inside, they were fried at too high a temperature.

Recovery: Reduce the heat and allow the oil to cool slightly before continuing to fry. This gives the apple rings more time to cook through without burning the outside.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt exterior indicates too high frying temperature or too long cooking time.

Prevention: Lower the heat and keep a closer watch on the frying process. Fry in smaller batches to help maintain the oil temperature.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the rings are too sweet, reduce the sugar in the batter next time.

Too Salty: If the rings taste too salty, ensure you're measuring the salt accurately, and consider omitting it if you prefer.

Bland: If the rings are bland, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings

The key ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings include fresh apples, which provide natural sweetness and texture. The batter is made with simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cinnamon to create that classic flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of taste and crunch.

Using high-quality, fresh apples is crucial for this recipe. Look for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. Fresh spices and ingredients will elevate the flavor of the batter and topping, ensuring your apple rings are deliciously memorable.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Apples: Choose firm, crisp apples for the best texture. Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Ensure the apples are fresh for optimal flavor.
  • Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon for the batter and topping, ensuring it is fresh for maximum flavor. You can experiment with cinnamon blends that include nutmeg or allspice for added depth.
  • Flour: All-purpose flour works best for a light and crispy batter. For a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free flour blend that has a similar texture to all-purpose flour.
Cooking process for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings begins with preparing your ingredients and heating the oil. Make sure to coat the apple rings evenly in the batter for a perfect fry. Each step is designed to maximize flavor and achieve that perfect crunch.

Frying the apple rings at the right temperature ensures they cook evenly, creating a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the apple soft and tender inside. Following each step closely will yield the best results for these delightful treats.

Key Technique for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings

The key technique lies in maintaining the correct oil temperature while frying. This ensures that the batter crisps up beautifully without overcooking the apples. Always test the oil with a small piece of batter before frying the full batch to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    For the sauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To balance sweetness

For the Sauce

  • 4 large apples
    Cored and sliced into rings
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For batter
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    For leavening
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
    For flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    For balance
  • 1 egg
    Beaten
  • 1 cup milk
    For the batter
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples

    Core the apples and slice them into rings, about 1/4 inch thick. Remove any seeds from the slices.

  2. Make the Batter

    In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, mix the beaten egg, milk, and vanilla. Combine both mixtures until smooth.

  3. Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.

  4. Dip the Apple Rings

    Dip each apple ring into the batter, coating both sides evenly.

  5. Fry the Rings

    Carefully place the battered apple rings in the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

  6. Drain Excess Oil

    Remove the fried apple rings and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

  7. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

    In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.

  8. Coat the Apple Rings

    While still warm, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the apple rings.

  9. Serve

    Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings are best enjoyed warm. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of hot cider. You can also drizzle them with caramel sauce for an extra treat.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, try adding chopped nuts to the batter for added crunch, or substitute different spices like nutmeg for a unique flavor. You can also experiment with different types of apples to find your perfect match.