Instructions:
- Place cooling racks over baking sheets covered in wax paper.
- Set aside.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in medium bowl.
- Make a well in the center and add 1/3 cup milk, eggs, and applesauce.
- Stir just to combine.
- Fold in apples.
- Heat 1 ½ – 2 inches of oil in heavy cast iron skillet, Dutch oven, or deep fryer to 375°F.
- Drop about 1/4 cup of batter per fritter into hot oil; spreading it out as you drop.
- Cook each side until golden brown; approximately 2 minutes per side.
- Remove to paper towels to drain.
- Make the Glaze
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup milk, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla.
- Dunk each fritter in the glaze turning over to make sure both sides coated.
- Place on the wire racks to air dry and drip.
Notes:
- Be careful not to over-mix the batter as it may make the fritters tough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying so the donuts cook evenly, and the oil temperature is easier to maintain.
- Using a candy thermometer to maintain the correct temperature of the oil is important.
- A Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet helps the oil hold temperature.
- Try to maintain a constant temperature of 375° F. When you add the batter, the temperature will drop slightly – increase the heat a tad. Then, when you remove the fritters from the oil the temperature will increase so you will need to turn the heat down a bit.
- Remove the fried fritters to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Store the cooled cooked fritters wrapped loosely in paper towels in a brown paper bag. This will keep them fresh longer.