Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.75 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup Granny Smith apple, finely diced
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions:
- Dice the Granny Smith apples into uniform, tiny cubes (approximately 1/4 inch) to ensure consistent fruit distribution.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk, egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and stop immediately to avoid overworking the batter.
- For frying: Heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of batter into the oil and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until deep mahogany-brown. Transfer to paper towels.
- For baking/air frying: Scoop mounds onto a parchment-lined sheet or basket. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or air fry for 8–10 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Apply the glaze to the fritters while they are warm, but not piping hot, to ensure the glaze sets into a clinging shell.