There’s something truly magical about German Fried Apple Rings—warm, golden apple slices enveloped in a sweet, fluffy batter and dusted with cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re craving a cozy dessert or a comforting snack, these irresistible treats are sure to brighten your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, Fluffy Texture: Each bite gives you the perfect contrast—delicate, fried batter on the outside and tender apple inside.
- Simple Pantry Ingredients: You only need basic staples like flour, sugar, and milk, making this recipe easy to whip up anytime a craving strikes.
- Irresistible Cinnamon Sugar: A generous dusting takes these German Fried Apple Rings to the next level with cozy, nostalgic flavor.
- Fun to Make and Eat: From dipping apples in batter to that first warm, sweet bite, this recipe is as delightful to prepare as it is to serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how such humble ingredients create something so mouthwatering! Each plays a starring role in achieving that signature crisp, pillowy bite—and the apples bring all the sunshine.
- Flour (1 1/2 cups): The backbone of your batter, creating a golden, fluffy crust that hugs each apple slice.
- Salt (pinch): Just a hint really heightens all the flavors and keeps the sweetness balanced.
- Eggs (2, room temperature): These bind the batter together, adding richness and lift for the dreamiest texture.
- Sugar (3.5 tablespoons for batter + 1 tablespoon for dusting): Sweetens both the batter and that delicious final sprinkle.
- Milk (2/3 cup, room temperature): Brings everything together into a smooth, creamy batter with the perfect consistency.
- Apples (5 medium): Choose firm, slightly tart apples for the best sweet-tangy contrast once fried.
- Butter or Sunflower Oil: For frying the apple rings—each gives a delicious golden finish (use butter for extra flavor, or sunflower oil for a classic crispness).
- Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon for dusting): Warm, spicy-sweet, and essential for that unmistakable aroma and flavor.
Variations
I love how adaptable German Fried Apple Rings are—there are so many ways to tailor this recipe to fit what you have on hand or your own dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Simply use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a version everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Substitute plant-based milk and use a vegan egg replacer, and fry the rings in oil rather than butter.
- Extra-Spiced: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a spicier, cozier twist.
- Apple Varieties: Try tart Granny Smith for a tangy bite or sweeter Pink Lady apples if you prefer extra sweetness.
How to Make German Fried Apple Rings
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by whisking together your flour, eggs, sugar, salt, and milk in a mixing bowl. Don’t rush—aim for a silky-smooth, lump-free batter that’s creamy but not too thick. This is the foundation for those irresistible crispy edges, so give it some love!
Step 2: Slice and Core the Apples
Peel your apples and slice them into rings—about 1/4-inch thick is just right for that perfect soft bite. Carefully remove the core from each slice, creating classic donut-shaped rings that will cook evenly and look gorgeous stacked high.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix your remaining sugar with ground cinnamon. I love pouring this blend into an empty seasoning bottle—makes for the most satisfying shake over those hot apple rings!
Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Set your skillet over medium-low heat and add a generous pat of butter, or a pour of sunflower oil. Let it get cozy and hot—warm enough to sizzle gently, but not so hot that the batter burns before the apple rings cook through.
Step 5: Dip and Fry the Apple Rings
Dip each apple ring into the luscious batter, letting it drip just a bit, then carefully lay it into the hot skillet. Fry until golden and crisp on both sides—about 2–3 minutes per side—then lift out and let any extra oil drain briefly.
Step 6: Dust and Serve
While the rings are still warm, dust them generously with your homemade cinnamon sugar blend. Repeat with the remaining apples and batter, building up a plate of fragrant, golden German Fried Apple Rings ready to share and savor!
Pro Tips for Making German Fried Apple Rings
- Apple Choice Matters: Firm, tart apples (like Granny Smith or Braeburn) hold their shape beautifully and balance out the batter’s sweetness.
- Don’t Rush the Batter: Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes after mixing—this helps the flour fully hydrate and makes the coating extra light.
- Perfect Frying Temperature: Keep your skillet on medium-low—if the oil is too hot, the outside browns before the apple softens; too cool, and the batter stays oily rather than crisp.
- Sprinkle While Hot: Dust the rings with cinnamon sugar as soon as they come out of the pan so it melts just slightly and sticks perfectly.
How to Serve German Fried Apple Rings
Garnishes
Don’t stop at cinnamon sugar! Try a light drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sparkle, or top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
Serve your German Fried Apple Rings with a warm mug of cider or coffee for a perfect fall treat, or pair with yogurt or a simple fruit salad to create a memorable brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the rings high on a serving platter for a dramatic centerpiece, or skewer them for a playful twist at parties. For dessert boards, tuck them between wedges of sharp cheese—sweet, savory, and absolutely stunning.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover apple rings (rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They’ll lose a little of their crispness but remain deliciously soft and flavorful.
Freezing
To freeze, layer cooled rings between sheets of parchment paper in a container. Freeze for up to two months, then reheat from frozen for an easy homemade treat whenever you wish.
Reheating
Rewarm German Fried Apple Rings in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until crisp; avoid the microwave for best texture. A quick trip in the air fryer can bring back their signature crunch as well!
FAQs
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What kind of apples work best for German Fried Apple Rings?
Choose firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp. These hold their shape during frying and provide a wonderful flavor contrast with the batter and cinnamon sugar.
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Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes! You can mix the batter and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 1 hour in advance. Be sure to give it a quick whisk before using to refresh the texture.
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Is it possible to bake instead of fry German Fried Apple Rings?
Baking won’t achieve quite the same crispy exterior, but you can bake the battered rings on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping once, as a lighter alternative.
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Can I make German Fried Apple Rings gluten-free or vegan?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend and plant-based milk for gluten-free or combine those swaps with a suitable egg replacer and oil for fully vegan apple rings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a nostalgic treat that fills your kitchen with warmth and cinnamon, look no further than these German Fried Apple Rings. Give them a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort dessert to share (or to keep all to yourself!).
Print
German Fried Apple Rings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these crispy and sweet German Fried Apple Rings. A simple and satisfying dessert or snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Batter:
- 180 g (1 1/2 cups) flour
- a pinch of salt
- 2 medium eggs (Germany, large US, room temperature)
- 3.5 tablespoons sugar
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) milk (room temperature)
For apple rings:
- 5 medium apples
- butter (to fry the apple rings, or sunflower oil)
For dusting:
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, eggs, sugar, salt, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Prepare Apples: Peel the apples, slice into rings, and remove the core.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Mix cinnamon and sugar together in a shaker.
- Frying: Heat butter or oil in a skillet. Dip apple rings in batter and fry until golden brown.
- Serve: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar immediately after frying.
- Repeat: Continue frying apple rings until all are cooked.
Notes
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature for frying to ensure a crispy texture.
- Adjust the sugar and cinnamon levels in the dusting mix to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple ring
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
