Apple fritters

1. Put cooling racks on baking sheets lined with wax paper. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and applesauce until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the diced apples.
6. In a large pot or deep fryer, heat canola oil to 375°F (190°C).
7. Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil.
8. Fry the fritters in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
9. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared cooling racks to drain excess oil.
10. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the frosting.
11. While the fritters are still warm, drizzle or dip them in the frosting.
12. Allow the frosting to set before serving.

For variations and tips on your Big Apple Donuts, consider these ideas:

1. Spices: You can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for added flavor.
2. Apples: Try using different types of apples for varying sweetness and texture. Honeycrisp and Fuji apples work great too!
3. Add-ins: Incorporate chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a nice crunch.
4. Glaze: Instead of frosting, you could dip the donuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider for a seasonal twist.
5. Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier option, consider baking the donuts instead of frying them. Use a donut pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
6. Serving: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra treat!

Here are some tips for making your Big Apple Donuts even better:

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness that complements the sweetness.
2. Donut Texture: Make sure not to overmix the batter; this helps keep the donuts light and fluffy.
3. Frying Temperature: If frying, ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) to avoid greasy donuts. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
4. Glaze Variations: Experiment with different glazes or toppings, like caramel or cinnamon sugar, to switch things up.
5. Serving Suggestions: Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful treat.

To store your Big Apple Donuts, follow these tips:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the donuts to cool completely on the cooling racks before storing them. This helps prevent moisture buildup.
2. Airtight Container: Place the cooled donuts in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Refrigeration: If you plan to keep them for more than a day, store the container in the refrigerator. They should last about 3-5 days.
4. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the donuts. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
5. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

Enjoy your delicious Big Apple Donuts! Have fun!