Peel and core apples*. Slice horizontally into one-centimetre-thick rounds.

Place in a shallow dish and pour maple syrup over them. Set aside to allow flavour to infuse into apples.

In a medium-size bowl, mix egg, milk, sugar, spices and sour cream. Add flour and mix until smooth. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottom deep pan to 190C.

Remove apple slices from maple syrup, drain any excess syrup off and lightly pat dry. Dip apple slices into the batter to coat completely, then deep fry in hot oil for two minutes each side. Remove and drain on paper towel. Repeat with remaining fritters.

Dust the fritters heavily with icing sugar and serve warm.

* If you don't have a corer, simply cut the apples into thick wedges rather than rounds.