Apple Fritter Bites with Caramel Sauce
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
For the Caramel Sauce:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Gently fold in the diced apple.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the fritter bites from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water. Do not stir. Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color.
9. Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up). Whisk constantly until smooth.
10. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt until melted and combined.
11. Serve the warm apple fritter bites immediately, drizzled with the caramel sauce.