Easy Homemade Deep Fried Apples: Crispy, Sweet & Irresistible Recipe!

Prepare to fall in love with these Deep Fried Apples – a delightfully crispy, golden-brown treat generously coated in a shimmering layer of sweet cinnamon sugar. This quick and incredibly easy dessert or snack is an absolute sensation, perfectly suited for the cozy ambiance of fall evenings, festive holiday gatherings, or simply as a comforting indulgence any time you crave something sweet and satisfying.

Deep Fried Apples offer a truly irresistible twist on a beloved classic, taking the humble apple to new heights of deliciousness. Each bite promises a harmonious contrast: a wonderfully crispy, golden exterior gives way to a soft, tender, and cinnamon-sweet interior. They are the quintessential treat, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort to cozy nights in, lively fairs, or any special holiday gathering.

Remarkably quick to prepare and bursting with an inviting flavor, these fried apples effortlessly elevate any dessert table. It’s truly one of the easiest and most satisfying apple desserts you’ll ever make, guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also be interested in our equally delicious Deep Fried Bananas Recipe and the incredibly fun Easy Deep Fried Cookie Dough.

Why Everyone Loves This Deep Fried Apple Recipe

There are countless reasons why these deep-fried apples have become a beloved favorite, cherished by families and dessert enthusiasts alike. From their irresistible texture to their comforting flavors, they truly hit all the right notes:

• Perfect Texture: Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside – This recipe masterfully achieves the ideal balance of textures. Each apple slice is enveloped in a light, golden-brown batter that fries up to a delightful crispness, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Beneath this crunchy shell lies a perfectly tender, warm apple interior, infused with sweet spices. It’s a contrast that makes these apples incredibly addictive.
• Incredibly Quick and Easy to Prepare – Forget complicated baking or lengthy prep times. These deep-fried apples come together in just minutes, utilizing straightforward ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s the ultimate last-minute dessert or snack, perfect for when a craving strikes or unexpected guests arrive. The simplicity makes it approachable for even novice cooks.
• The Ultimate Fall Treat – As autumn leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, nothing captures the essence of the season quite like these cinnamon and sugar-laden fried apples. They evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia, making them a quintessential part of any fall celebration, from apple picking adventures to Halloween parties and Thanksgiving gatherings.
• Highly Versatile Dessert Options – While utterly delicious on their own, these deep-fried apples are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit any preference. Serve them simply dusted with extra cinnamon sugar, pair them with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or elevate them further with a decadent drizzle of Homemade Caramel Sauce or rich chocolate syrup for an extra touch of indulgence. They can even make a delightful breakfast or brunch item!
• A Fun Treat for All Ages – This dessert has universal appeal. Kids will adore the sweet, playful nature of these fried apple rings, while adults will appreciate the comforting flavors and satisfying crunch. It’s also a fantastic recipe to involve children in the kitchen, making for a fun and memorable cooking experience.

Essential Ingredients for Deep Fried Apples

Crafting these delectable deep-fried apples requires a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is important:

• Large Apples – The foundation of our dessert! While the original recipe suggests Granny Smith for their tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness, you can also use other firm, slightly tart or sweet-tart varieties such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Braeburn. These types hold their shape well when fried and offer a wonderful flavor. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples, as they can become mushy.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for achieving that perfect crispy, golden exterior. You’ll need enough to create about an inch of oil in your pot for frying. Neutral-flavored oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are ideal as they have a high smoke point and won’t impart unwanted flavors to your apples. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to success.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of our simple yet effective batter. It provides structure and helps create that desirable crispy coating.
• Baking Powder – This leavening agent is crucial for making the batter light and airy. It ensures the coating isn’t heavy or dense, but rather delicate and fluffy, allowing the apple’s flavor to shine through.
• Granulated Sugar (for batter) – A small amount of sugar in the batter adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning, contributing to the beautiful golden hue of the fried apples.
• Milk – Used to create a smooth, pourable batter consistency. Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder for the batter, helping to hold the ingredients together and ensuring the coating adheres well to the apple slices. It also contributes to the batter’s richness and texture.

The Delicious Topping

• Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Provides the sweet foundation for our iconic cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice! Cinnamon adds warmth, depth, and that unmistakable cozy fall flavor to the apples. Feel free to adjust the amount to your personal taste – some prefer a generous coating, while others like a lighter touch. You can also experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or apple pie spice for an even richer aroma.

You can find the precise measurements and full ingredient list for this delightful recipe in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Creative Variations for Your Deep Fried Apples

One of the joys of this recipe is its adaptability. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these variations to tailor the deep-fried apples to your taste or what you have on hand:

• Apple Varieties – While Granny Smith apples provide a wonderful tart contrast, feel free to experiment with any apple variety you love. Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Pink Lady, or even a mix of sweet and tart apples can create different flavor profiles. Each type offers a slightly different level of sweetness and texture, so play around to find your favorite!
• Batter Mixture Alternatives – Get experimental with your coating! For a sweeter, fluffier exterior, swap the simple flour batter with your favorite boxed pancake or waffle mix. You could also try a touch of cornstarch in the batter for extra crispiness, or even a light tempura batter for a very delicate crunch. For a richer flavor, a beer batter can add an interesting depth.
• Apple Shape Customization – The classic thin slices are fantastic, but don’t limit yourself! Try cutting the apples into small wedges, creating beautiful apple rings (by coring first then slicing), or even dicing them into small cubes for a more fritter-like experience. Just ensure uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Spice It Up! – Beyond cinnamon, there’s a world of warm spices to explore. Incorporate nutmeg, allspice, ground ginger, or a ready-made pumpkin pie spice blend directly into the batter for an intensified fall flavor. A touch of cardamom can also add an exotic, aromatic twist.
• Gourmet Toppings – Elevate your deep-fried apples with an array of luxurious toppings. Besides the classic caramel, chocolate, or powdered sugar, consider a drizzle of maple syrup, a spoonful of berry compote, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds), or even a dollop of cream cheese frosting. For a unique sweet-and-savory twist, try a sprinkle of candied bacon bits!
• Citrus Zest – A little lemon or orange zest mixed into the batter can add a bright, fresh counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples and spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Deep Fried Apples

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly crispy and delicious deep-fried apples:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples and Oil. Begin by thoroughly washing and carefully peeling your apples, if desired (leaving the skin on is also an option for added fiber and rustic charm). Then, slice each apple into thin, uniform pieces, about ¼-inch thick. Use a small cookie cutter or an apple corer to remove the core from each slice. In a sturdy pot or Dutch oven, heat approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter and Dip the Apples. In a medium-sized shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, milk, baking powder, egg, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. Next, carefully take each apple slice and immerse it in the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lift the apple slice, allowing any excess batter to drip off before proceeding to the frying stage.

Step 3: Fry the Apples Until Golden. Gently place the coated apple slices into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for approximately 1 minute on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and appear crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully remove the fried apples from the oil. Transfer them to a plate generously lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, ensuring they remain perfectly crisp.

Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar. In another shallow bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir well to mix evenly. While the fried apple slices are still warm (this helps the sugar adhere better), dip each one into the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Serve these delightful deep-fried apples immediately and enjoy their warm, crispy, and sweet goodness!

Sensational Topping Ideas for Deep Fried Apples

While delicious on their own, deep fried apples become an extraordinary dessert with the right toppings. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your treat:

• Decadent Sauces – Take your fried apples to the next level with a luxurious drizzle. My favorites include rich Homemade Caramel Sauce and creamy Hot Fudge Sauce or classic chocolate syrup. You could also try a vibrant berry coulis, a sticky maple syrup, or a tangy lemon glaze for a different flavor profile.
• Light & Creamy Whipped Topping – A dollop of Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe provides a wonderful contrast to the warm, crispy apples. For an extra touch of flavor, consider infusing your whipped cream with a hint of vanilla, almond extract, or even a dash of cinnamon. A scoop of slightly sweetened cream cheese frosting can also be an amazing alternative.
• Cool & Refreshing Ice Cream – Serve your warm deep-fried apple slices alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream or rich caramel ice cream are classic choices that perfectly complement the apple’s flavor. For something more adventurous, try cinnamon, pecan, or even a scoop of rum raisin ice cream.
• Crunchy Additions – Sprinkle some texture on top! Chopped toasted nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a delightful crunch. Toasted shredded coconut or even granola can also provide an interesting contrast.
• Simple Dustings – For a sophisticated touch, a simple dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance and an extra layer of sweetness. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar, or for a grown-up twist, a pinch of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness.

Expert Pro Tips for Making Perfect Deep Fried Apples

Achieving deep-fried apple perfection is easy with these insider tips and tricks:

• Choose Firm Apples Wisely – The type of apple you select is crucial. Opt for firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith. These apples maintain their structure and won’t become mushy when cooked in the hot batter, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
• Peeling is Optional, Personal Preference is Key – Whether to peel your apples or not is entirely up to you. Leaving the skin on adds a rustic appeal, a slight chewiness, and an extra boost of fiber. However, peeling ensures a uniformly tender apple interior and a smoother, more delicate bite. Experiment to see which you prefer!
• Ensure Uniform Slices for Even Cooking – Consistency in your apple slices is vital. Cut them into similar thickness (around ¼-inch is ideal). This ensures that every piece cooks evenly, resulting in perfectly tender apples and a consistent golden-brown batter without some pieces being undercooked or overcooked.
• Master the Proper Oil Temperature – This is perhaps the most critical tip for perfectly crispy results. Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure your vegetable oil maintains a steady temperature of 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, the apples will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the batter will burn before the apple inside has a chance to soften.
• Serve Immediately for Peak Enjoyment – Deep-fried apples are unequivocally at their best when served hot and fresh, straight from the fryer. This is when their exterior is at its crispiest and the apple interior is wonderfully warm and tender. Don’t wait too long to enjoy them!
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pot – When frying, work in small batches. Adding too many apple slices to the oil at once will drastically drop the oil’s temperature, leading to greasy, soggy apples instead of crispy ones. Give each piece enough space to fry properly and evenly.
• Aim for Extra Crispiness – For an even crunchier exterior, consider double-dipping your apple slices in the batter. This creates a thicker coating that fries up extra crispy. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to your batter can also boost crispiness.
• Boost Flavor with Post-Frying Seasoning – While the cinnamon sugar coating is essential, don’t shy away from adding more! After coating, a light sprinkle of additional cinnamon sugar, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce can further enhance the flavor and presentation.
• Drain on a Wire Rack – Instead of just paper towels, place a wire rack over paper towels or a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the fried apples, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy as they cool slightly.
• Fryer Safety First – Always be cautious when deep frying. Use a heavy-bottomed pot, keep a lid nearby in case of a grease fire (do NOT use water), and never leave hot oil unattended.
• Test a Small Piece – Before frying a whole batch, dip one apple slice in batter and fry it. This allows you to check the oil temperature and batter consistency and make any necessary adjustments.

Storage Best Practices for Deep Fried Apples

Deep fried apples are truly a treat best enjoyed immediately for maximum freshness and crispiness. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to handle them:

Best Served Fresh: To reiterate, the absolute peak enjoyment of deep-fried apples comes right after cooking. The warm, crispy batter and tender apple interior are unparalleled at this stage.

Short-Term Storage: If you must store them, allow any leftover fried apples to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Beyond this, the quality will significantly decline.

Reheating Tips: To restore some of their original crispiness, avoid the microwave, which will only make them soggy. Instead, reheat refrigerated fried apples in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, until warmed through and crisped up.

Do Not Freeze: Freezing is strongly not recommended for deep-fried apples. The delicate batter and apple texture will become soggy and unappetizing upon thawing, severely compromising the overall quality and enjoyment of this delicious treat.

More Easy & Delicious Apple Desserts to Try

If you’ve fallen in love with these deep-fried apples, you’ll surely enjoy these other fantastic and easy apple dessert recipes that celebrate the versatile fruit:

• Homemade Apple Fritters Recipe: Classic, airy, and bursting with apple chunks.
• Mini Apple Pie Bites Recipe: All the flavor of apple pie in a convenient, bite-sized form.
• Delightful Apple Pie Cookies Recipe: Chewy cookies with the comforting taste of apple pie.
• Crispy Air Fryer Apple Chips: A healthy and addictive apple snack.
• Classic Baked Apples Recipe: A warm, comforting, and naturally sweet dessert.

We truly hope you give this incredible recipe for Deep Fried Apples a try. It’s a simple pleasure that brings so much joy! Please share your experience by leaving a comment and a star rating once you’ve made them. Your feedback helps our community of dessert lovers!