Apple and cheddar is a classic childish flavor combination. Pieces of cheddar and apple slices are what your mom set out for you as an afternoon snack, right? Right. And since most of us enjoy eating things that remind us of our childhoods, this is just perfect.

Apple-Cheddar Latkes

4 apples (1 large Honeycrisp and 2 Granny Smiths), peeled, cored and halved
1 lemon, juiced
1/2 tsp. fine-grain sea salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper, plus more for garnish
1 1/4 cup aged sharp cheddar, grated
1 large egg
Vegetable oil, enough such that it reaches a depth of 1/2-inch in the pan
Sour cream, for serving

Preheat the oven to 200˚F.

Using a box grater, coarsely shred the apples into a medium bowl. Toss the grated apples with lemon juice and sprinkle in the salt. Allow to stand for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and freshly ground pepper. In another small bowl, lightly beat the large egg and set aside.
Gather the apples in the center of a few layers of cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess juice. Place them back in the medium bowl and add the flour mixture and cheese; toss until the apples are evenly coated. Add the beaten egg and mix until completely combined.

Place a skillet over medium-high heat and pour in vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot place a heaping tablespoon of the apple mixture into the pan, slightly flattening the latke with the back of a spoon. Repeat with more latkes, but don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the latkes on their first side for 1- 2 minutes, or until golden brown. Carefully flip and cook the opposite side for a 1 more minute. Transfer to paper towels to drain and then place them in the oven to keep warm. Repeat the process with the remaining apple mixture.