📝 About This Recipe
Hailing from the picturesque regions of Southern Germany, Apfelküchle are a beloved comfort food that transforms simple orchard apples into a decadent, crispy-sweet indulgence. These ring-shaped fritters feature tender, tart apple slices enveloped in a rich, velvety beer or wine-infused batter, fried until they achieve a perfect golden hue. Topped with a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, they offer a nostalgic taste of European autumn festivals and cozy afternoon tea times.
🥗 Ingredients
The Apple Rings
- 4 pieces Large Tart Apples (preferably Granny Smith, Boskoop, or Braeburn)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed to prevent browning)
- 1 tablespoon Dark Rum (optional, for macerating the apples)
The Batter
- 1.5 cups All-purpose Flour (sifted)
- 2 large Eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 3/4 cup Whole Milk (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup Pale Lager or Dry White Wine (adds lightness and crispness to the crust)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (fine sea salt)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or vanilla bean paste)
Frying and Finishing
- 2 cups Neutral Oil (such as vegetable, canola, or clarified butter (Ghee))
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (for the coating)
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (mixed with the coating sugar)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Begin by preparing the apples: Peel them carefully, then use an apple corer to remove the center seeds while keeping the fruit whole.
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2
Slice the cored apples crosswise into rings approximately 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick. Place them in a bowl and toss gently with lemon juice and rum to keep them bright and add a hint of aroma.
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3
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center.
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4
In a separate jug, combine the egg yolks, milk, beer (or wine), melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
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5
Gradually pour the liquid mixture into the flour well, whisking from the center outward until you have a smooth, thick batter. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
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6
While the batter rests, beat the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff peaks form. They should be firm but not dry.
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7
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the rested batter using a spatula. Do this carefully to maintain the airiness; this is the secret to a puffy crust.
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8
Heat about 1 inch of oil or clarified butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
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9
Pat the apple rings dry with a paper towel. This ensures the batter clings perfectly to the fruit instead of sliding off.
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10
Dip each apple ring into the batter, ensuring it is fully submerged and coated. Let any excess batter drip off for a second.
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11
Carefully place 3-4 rings into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will drop the temperature and result in greasy fritters.
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12
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until the batter is puffed and a deep golden brown. The apple inside should become tender.
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13
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters and place them briefly on paper towels to drain excess oil.
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14
While still hot, dredge the fritters in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated on both sides.
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15
Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use a firm, tart apple variety; sweet apples like Gala can become too mushy when fried. Ensure your frying oil is at the correct temperature (350°F); if it's too cool, the batter absorbs oil, and if it's too hot, the outside burns before the apple cooks. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the beer or wine with sparkling mineral water for the same carbonated lift. Always sift your flour to avoid lumps in the batter, which can lead to uneven frying. For an extra-thick coating, lightly dust the apple rings in plain flour before dipping them into the wet batter.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a generous scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. Drizzle with a warm vanilla sauce (Vanillesauce) or a salted caramel sauce for extra decadence. Pair with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a robust German coffee. Add a side of tart lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce to cut through the sweetness. For a festive touch, serve alongside a glass of chilled dessert wine or a sparkling cider.