Apple Buñuelos (Apple Fritters)

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease (or line with parchment) two baking sheets.

Step 2

, To bake the apples: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, or in the microwave. Once melted, immediately add the tequila, brown sugar, and canela (cinnamon). Stir to combine.

Step 3

, Place the apple slices on the prepared baking sheets and brush with the melted butter mixture. Flip the slices and brush the other side with the remaining butter mixture.

Step 4

, Bake until the apple slices are soft, about 13 to 18 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely.

Step 5

, To make the batter: Whisk the egg yolks until creamy and pale. Add the 2 tablespoons oil and beer and continue whisking until well combined. Gently fold in the flour.

Step 6

, In a separate large bowl, using a whisk or a mixer with the whisk attachment, combine the egg whites and salt, and whip until soft peaks form.

Step 7

, Slowly add the sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, stirring until no streaks of white remain.

Step 8

, To fry the buñuelos: Heat 1” of oil in a deep casserole or cast iron pan over medium heat, for at least 5 minutes. If using a thermometer, the temperature should reach 375°F. You can also test the oil by dropping a teaspoon of batter into it; if the oil actively bubbles all around it, it's ready. The bubbles shouldn't be either too slow or too aggressive (in a way that you can't see what’s being fried).

Step 9

, Set a cooling rack over a baking sheet or cover a baking sheet with paper towels.

Step 10

, One by one, dip the apple slices in the batter and gently place into the hot oil. Work in batches, adding apples without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until puffed up and golden brown.

Step 11

, Use a slotted spoon to flip the slices over and fry on the other side for 1 to 2 minutes more. Transfer buñuelos to the prepared rack or baking sheet to drain.

Step 12

, Repeat until you've used all the apple slices.

Step 13

, Sprinkle the buñuelos generously with confectioners’ sugar before serving; they're best enjoyed warm.