If you’re searching for a delightfully nostalgic treat that instantly transports you to a county fair or the comfort of grandma’s kitchen, then this Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe will steal your heart (and taste buds). Each ring pairs crisp apples with a fluffy cinnamon-scented batter and a crackly sugar coating, creating a warm, sweet bite that’s both playful and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re serving these as an after-school surprise, a cozy dessert, or the star of a brunch spread, every batch will disappear in a flash.

Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe is beautifully simple. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the apples lending their tart juiciness to the cinnamon bringing that signature warmth. Together, this short list transforms humble staples into something magical.

Apples (2 large, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Their crispness and bright flavor hold up perfectly through frying, delivering juicy, tender rings.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the foundation of the batter for light, crunchy coating.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon for batter, 1/2 cup for coating): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the crispy shell and final toss.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures your batter puffs up, making each bite extra airy.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon for batter, 1 teaspoon for coating): Infuses classic fall warmth and wonderful aroma.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the apple flavor.
Large egg (1): Binds the batter and helps it achieve that golden finish.
Milk (3/4 cup): Gives smoothness and just the right consistency to your batter.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with a rich, fragrant note.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral in flavor and perfect for achieving that crispy exterior.

How to Make Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Start by peeling your apples, then carefully remove the cores using an apple corer or a sharp knife. Slice each apple into 1/4-inch rings—aim for consistent thickness so everything fries up evenly. Pat your apple rings dry with a paper towel; this helps the batter stick beautifully and keeps oil splatter to a minimum.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt until well combined. In a separate small bowl, blend the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and whisk just until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. Don’t over-mix—your rings will be fluffier if you stop as soon as there are no streaks of flour left.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour 1–2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you have a kitchen thermometer, this is the time to use it, but a small drop of batter should sizzle and float to the surface when it’s ready.

Step 4: Fry the Apple Rings

Dip each apple ring into the batter, letting any excess drip off to avoid a too-thick coating. Carefully place 2–3 rings into the hot oil (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, turning with tongs, until each ring is puffed and deep golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels.

Step 5: Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

While still warm, toss each fried ring in a mixture of 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. The coating will cling deliciously and add that irresistible sparkle and crunch. Serve your Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe immediately while they’re at their warm, fluffy best.

How to Serve Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a dollop of softly whipped cream can elevate this Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe to showstopper status. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts adds extra crunch, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns these rings into a dreamy sundae.

Side Dishes

Pair your rings with fresh berries, a tangy fruit salad, or a warm mug of apple cider to amplify those apple-pie vibes. They’re also fantastic alongside a cheese platter or paired with creamy yogurt for a sweet-and-savory twist at brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Thread the apple rings onto skewers for a whimsical dessert kebab, or stack them high on a cake stand dusted with extra cinnamon sugar. For parties, offer a dipping bar with chocolate sauce, caramel, and berry compote to let everyone customize their Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra rings (it’s rare, but possible!), let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge, but be aware that they’ll lose a bit of their crispness over time.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled rings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, there’s no need to thaw—just reheat directly from frozen to revive their texture.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, warm the Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe in a 350°F oven for five to seven minutes. This brings back their signature crunch and keeps them from turning soggy, so you can enjoy that fresh-from-the-fryer magic even the next day.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work beautifully for their crisp texture, feel free to try Fuji, Gala, or even Pink Lady. Just keep in mind that softer apples may not hold up quite as well during frying.

Do I need a deep fryer to make these?

No special equipment required—a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot does the trick. Just make sure your oil is deep enough to submerge the rings for an even fry.

Is it possible to make the Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend (one that includes xanthan gum works best), and you’ll achieve delicious results with only minor texture changes.

How do I keep the batter from sliding off the apples?

Drying your apple slices thoroughly is key. Any lingering juice can cause the batter to slip. Also, don’t rush—let the coated ring rest for a moment before frying to help the batter adhere.

Can I bake the apple rings instead of frying?

Although the classic Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe is all about that crisp-fried shell, you can experiment with baking at 425°F on a parchment-lined tray. They won’t be quite as crunchy, but they’ll still be sweet, warm, and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I can’t think of a better way to celebrate apples, cinnamon, and pure comfort than with this Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe. It’s easy, joyfully old-fashioned, and guaranteed to spark happy smiles from your very first bite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your own kitchen!

Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these crispy Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings for a delightful dessert experience. These apple slices are coated in a sweet batter, fried to perfection, and then tossed in a cinnamon sugar mixture for a delicious finish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Apple Rings:

2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil for frying

For Coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into rings. Pat dry with a paper towel.
Make the Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, mix egg, milk, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a batter.
Fry the Rings: Heat oil, dip apple rings in batter, and fry until golden brown.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the fried rings in a cinnamon sugar mixture.
Serve: Enjoy warm!