Apfelküchlein (Apple Fritters)
These delightful apple fritters, a popular treat in Liechtenstein and surrounding Alpine regions, feature apple slices coated in a light, vanilla-scented batter and deep-fried to a golden crisp. Dusted with cinnamon sugar, they are a perfect sweet snack or dessert.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 large Apples(firm, slightly tart varieties like Boskop or Elstar)
- 100 g All-purpose flour
- 250 ml Milk
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tsp Sugar(for the batter)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon powder(for dusting)
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- for frying Vegetable oil
- to taste Powdered sugar(for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel the apples, core them, and slice them into rings about 0.5 cm thick. Place the apple rings in a bowl and toss with a little lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning).
💡 Tip: Using a mandoline or a sharp knife ensures even slices. - 2
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
💡 Tip: Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined before adding wet ingredients. - 3
Add the milk and the egg to the dry ingredients. Whisk until a smooth, lump-free batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
💡 Tip: If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, add a bit more flour. - 4
Heat about 2-3 cm of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 170-180°C (340-350°F).
💡 Tip: Use a thermometer for accurate oil temperature. If you don't have one, a drop of batter should sizzle and float immediately. - 5
Dip each apple ring into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Carefully place the battered apple rings into the hot oil.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. - 6
Fry the apple fritters for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed up. Use tongs to turn them.
💡 Tip: Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. - 7
Remove the fried apple fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
💡 Tip: Draining on a wire rack helps keep them crisp. - 8
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon powder with powdered sugar. While the fritters are still warm, dust them generously with this mixture.
💡 Tip: The warmth helps the sugar and cinnamon adhere better. - 9
Serve the Apfelküchlein immediately while they are warm and crispy.
💡 Tip: These are best enjoyed fresh, but can be reheated briefly in a moderate oven.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Choose apples that hold their shape well when cooked, such as Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying; too cool and they'll be greasy, too hot and they'll burn before cooking through.
- ✓For an extra festive touch, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter.
🔄 Variations
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce can be added for extra sweetness.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.