Bing Cherry Fritters

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 1/3 cups milk
4 eggs, separated
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 cups Bing cherries, pitted
Oil for frying
Sifted confectioners sugar

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and cinnamon. Add the milk, egg yolks, oil and lemon juice and beat until smooth.

In a large bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter. Fold in the pitted cherries.

In a deep, heavy saucepan, heat 3 inches of oil to 375 degrees F. Drop a few tablespoonsful of the batter into the hot oil and fry for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and keep warm in a very low oven. Repeat until all the batter is cooked. Serve at once, topped with confectioners sugar.