Headed into fall with Fried Apples

With most schools back in session and the hint of crispness in the air, it’s feeling like fall! Fall is my thing. Those bright, blue, cloudless sky days, the first few leaves falling on the sun-warmed sidewalk, and the smell of a weekend bonfire couldn’t make me happier! Along with the looks and feel of fall comes the smell and comfort of seasonal fall desserts.

This recipe of fried apples is at least 45 years old and originally came from our family babysitter when we were growing up, Mrs. Markovich. My memory of her, for some reason, is not crystal clear but from what my heart tells me is that she was a sweet old lady with grey hair and glasses who frequently wore a housecoat.  She sat with us when mom and dad went out for the evening or sometimes for the whole weekend. 

What I do recall about her staying with us was the delicious smell of ripe apples and the sweet batter when she made this recipe for us as a treat. That smell of the apples wafted throughout the house as she would fry them in mom’s 1970s electric skillet. We couldn’t wait until the first batch was golden brown and she would sprinkle the warm apple slices with powdered sugar. They would melt in your mouth. If you’re a “fall fanatic” like me, try this recipe on a cool Saturday afternoon or for dessert. I promise you won’t have any regrets!

I wish I knew what happened to Mrs. Markovich at the end of her life. I would love to talk to her extended family so I could learn more about her. I hope she knows I think about her every time I make this delicious treat, and that as I stood on a step stool watching her mix the batter 45 years ago, that she was the apple of my eye. Enjoy!

Mrs. Markovich’s Fried Apples

-6 eggs with yolks separated

-1 tsp vanilla

-6 heaping TBS flour

-6 tsp sugar

-1 TBS vegetable oil

-apples (of course!) 4-5 depending on the size 

Mix yolks and sugar then add vanilla and oil. Add flour, 1 TBS at a time. Mix well. The mixture should be thick and smooth. Beat egg whites then add to mixture. Peel and core your apples and cut them into slices. Cover them with the batter and fry in oil until golden brown. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Yum!