In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, orange zest and salt.

In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg, then stir in the milk and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients until combined. The mixture should be fairly thick, but should drop easily from a spoon. If needed, add a little bit of milk to get the right consistency.

Heat about 1 1/4-inches of oil in a pot. Stir the apples into the batter. Using 2 forks, lift 5-6 apple matchsticks from the batter, allowing any excess batter to drip back into the bowl. Drop into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, 2-3 minutes, then flip to cook the second side. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.