Spiced Fritters with Maple-Vanilla Syrup

Preparation

1. For syrup:

   Step 1

   Combine maple syrup and cinnamon stick in medium saucepan. Scrape in seeds from vanilla bean; add bean. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes. Scrape down sides of pan. Let syrup cool completely.

2. For fritters:

   Step 2

   Whisk first 7 ingredients in large bowl to blend. Whisk yogurt, eggs, and brandy in medium bowl to blend. Stir yogurt mixture into dry ingredients (batter will be very soft).

   Step 3

   Pour oil into heavy large saucepan to depth of 1 1/2 inches. Attach deep-fry thermometer and heat oil to 350°F to 360°F. Line large rimmed baking sheet with several layers of paper towels. Frying 3 or 4 at a time, drop batter by heaping tablespoonfuls into oil and cook until deep golden brown, turning occasionally, about 5 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer fritters to paper towels to drain.

   Step 4

   Sift powdered sugar over fritters. Spoon syrup into bowls. Arrange 3 fritters atop syrup in each.