1. 1. Prepare the Fritter Batter Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: the yellow cake mix, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these together thoroughly until no lumps remain and the spices are evenly distributed. The mixture should look like a pale, spiced flour blend.

2. 2. Mix in the Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the well. Whisk everything together until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are acceptable. The batter will be thick, similar to pancake batter.

3. 3. Fold in the Diced Apples: Gently fold the finely diced apples into the batter using a spatula. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The batter should now be studded with bright apple pieces.

4. 4. Heat the Frying Oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 F (175 C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny bit of batter in; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.

5. 5. Fry the Apple Fritters: Carefully drop spoonfuls (about 1-2 tablespoons each) of the apple fritter batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. They will puff up slightly and turn a rich, appetizing color.

6. 6. Drain and Cool Slightly: Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the cooked fritters from the oil. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

7. 7. Prepare the Glaze: While the fritters are still warm, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk a teaspoon at a time if the glaze is too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin. The glaze should be pourable but still thick enough to coat the fritters.

8. 8. Glaze the Fritters and Serve: Dip each warm fritter into the glaze, or drizzle the glaze generously over them. Place them back on the wire rack for the glaze to set slightly. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, sweet, and crispy goodness!