Stella's Apple Fritters

Ingredients:
4 medium Granny Smith apples
3/4 cup milk
1 egg, beaten
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup sparkling water (optional—makes them extra fluffy)
1 1/2 cups flour
32 ounces of canola oil
Extra sugar for sprinkling on cooked fritters
Instructions:
Peel, core and thinly slice the apples so they are in whole rings. Add the sugar and set aside. **Our Nonna would add a couple splashes of grappa to give extra taste to the apple! If you don't have grappa, you can use brandy. This step is optional.**
Add the oil to a deep frying pan or dutch oven. You want enough oil to fully cover the apple fitter once it is placed in the pan. Heat the oil to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl, add the flour and salt.
In a smaller bowl, mix together the milk and egg.
Add the milk and egg mixture to the flour and whisk until smooth.
Add the sparkling water to the dough mixture and stir until combined.
Drop the apple rings (in batches) into the dough mixture and coat thoroughly.
Using a spoon, drop the fritters into the heated oil. Cook each side until a light-to-medium golden brown. Total cooking time is approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate using a slotted spoon or a spider. Use paper towels to line the plate to soak up some of the excess oil.
Transfer the cooked fritters to a serving plate and sprinkle with sugar and serve while warm!
Enjoy our family favorite!