In a large bowl, stir the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon to combine.
Add applesauce and milk to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fold in the diced apples.
Heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet to about 375 degrees.
Scoop 1/3 cup of the apple fritter batter and place in the hot oil, spreading it down to flatten.
Cook on one side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip with tongs and cook another 1-2 minutes.
Place the cooked fritters on a cooling rack with a pan or parchment paper underneath to catch oil drippings.
Continue with all the batter.