CONTENTS
Apple Fritters
(Croatian: Jabuke u šlafroku)
Jabuke u šlafroku, or apple fritters, are a nostalgic Croatian dessert that evokes memories of childhood. The name translates to “apples in a dressing gown,” highlighting the warm, golden batter that encases slices of juicy apples. This simple yet delightful dish is a staple of Central European cuisine and is loved for its comforting aroma of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla. Perfect for the autumn and winter months, Jabuke u šlafroku combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of fried batter, creating a dessert that warms both the heart and the palate.

Ingredients
For 16-20 rings
- 4 apples
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 50 g sugar
- 1 packet (8 g) vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Sunflower oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar and cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Prepare the apples: Wash and peel the apples. Core them to remove the seeds, then slice them into 0.5 cm thick rings. Place the slices in a bowl and drizzle with freshly squeezed lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Make the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs with sugar and vanilla sugar until frothy. Gradually add the milk, followed by the flour and a pinch of salt, whisking until the batter is smooth and slightly thicker than pancake batter.
- Heat the oil: In a large frying pan, heat a generous amount of sunflower oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a drop of batter is added.
- Fry the apple rings: Dip each apple ring into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Gently lower the coated apple slices into the hot oil, frying them in batches. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Garnish and serve: While still warm, dust the fritters with powdered sugar. For an extra touch of flavour, sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Serve: Enjoy the fritters hot and fresh, served on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
- Serving suggestions: Jabuke u šlafroku are a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a richer experience, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yoghurt.
ZERO WASTE TIPS
- Save apple scraps: Use the apple cores and peels to make homemade apple syrup or jelly.
- Reuse frying oil: Strain and store the frying oil if it has not burned, to use for future recipes.
- Leftover batter: If you have extra batter, fry small spoonfuls to make mini pancakes or fritters.
- Customise fillings: Try using overripe apples or other fruits like pears for a delicious variation.
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