Dutch Apple Fritters (Apelbeignets)

• firm tart apples↗6 -8
• cups beer↗2
• cups flour↗2
• pinch salt↗1
• oil or vegetable shortening, for deep frying
• vanilla sugar (granulated)↗

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Peel and core apples and cut into lengthwise slices between 1/3 and 1/2 inch thick.

2. 2

   Mix beer with flour and salt until smooth and free of lumps.

3. 3

   Dip apple slices into batter and let excess drip off.

4. 4

   Fry a few slices at a time in fat heated to 370 F.

5. 5

   turn once so they become golden brown on both sides--about 4 minutes in all.

6. 6

   Drain one a paper towel and serve warm sprinkled with sugar.

7. 7

   Makes 6 to 10 servings.

8. 8

   *VANILLASUGAR: Place 1 pound confectioners' or granulated sugar in a jar with 2 or 3 vanilla beans.

9. 9

   Close jar tightly and let stand for 48 hours before using.

10. 10

    Replenish sugar as it is used up.

11. 11

    Use as called for in individual recipes.

12. 12

    Beans need replacing only after 4 or 5 months.

13. 13

    Visions of SugarPlums.