Big Apple Fritters

Big Apple Fritters: A Delicious Classic Treat and How to Make Them Step-by-Step

Apple fritters have long been a beloved comfort food, and when it comes to the ultimate version, the “Big Apple Fritters” stand out as a perfect blend of crispy, fluffy dough and tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. This treat, often found at fairs, bakeries, and brunch spots, is a perfect balance of sweet and slightly tart, wrapped in a golden fried dough and finished with a sugary glaze.

In this article, you’ll discover the origins, the essence of Big Apple Fritters, and a detailed, easy-to-follow recipe to make these mouthwatering delights right in your kitchen.

What Are Big Apple Fritters?

At their core, apple fritters are deep-fried dough pieces embedded with chunks of apple, often combined with cinnamon and sugar to create a warm, comforting flavor. The “Big Apple” moniker plays on the size and the apple-centric nature of the fritter, making it a larger, more indulgent version of the classic fritter.

The dough is typically a yeast or cake batter that yields a soft interior and a crispy outside once fried. The apples inside provide juicy bursts and a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the glaze drizzled on top.

Ingredients for Big Apple Fritters

For the dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ cup whole milk (warm, about 110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the apple filling:

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled and diced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning and add slight tartness)

For frying:

• Vegetable oil or canola oil (for deep frying, about 2-3 inches deep in your pan)

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Method to Make Big Apple Fritters

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast:
   In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is active.
2. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients:
   In another bowl, beat the egg with melted butter and vanilla extract.
4. Form the dough:
   Pour the yeast mixture and the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead and proof:
   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Combine Dough and Apples

1. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air.
2. Flatten the dough into a rough rectangle about 1/2-inch thick on a floured surface.
3. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.
4. Fold the dough over the apples and gently press to seal.
5. Using your hands or a knife, tear or cut the dough into irregular pieces about the size of a fist — these will be your fritters.

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