Amish Apple Fritters

8 medium firm cooking apples
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, separated
Grated rind of 1 lemon
1/2 cup milk
Confectioners sugar

Peel and slice the apples into 1/4-inch slices.

Combine the brown sugar and lemon juice in a 10-inch shallow dish. Add the apple slices, spooning the sauce over both sides of the fruit. Allow to stand for 1 hour, turning occasionally.

Heat 3 inches of oil in a heavy skillet.

Combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon and salt.

In another bowl beat the egg yolks thoroughly and add the rind and milk. Combine with the dry ingredients.

In a mixing bowl beat the egg whites until stiff, then gently fold them into the batter. The batter will be puffy and there will be some white patches showing. Dip the apple slices into the batter, firmly pushing the slices into the batter until both sides are covered.

With tongs, drop the apple into the hot oil and cook until golden on one side - about 2 minutes. Turn and fry on the other side for 1 minute. Sprinkle with confectioners sugar.