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This airy and crisp apple fries recipe is perfect for when you crave something sweet yet light. It’s an easy way to turn fresh apples into a snack or dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make at home.
I tossed this together on a whim one afternoon and it quickly became a favorite whenever I want something sweet but not heavy. The contrast between warm, soft apple and crisp coating is delightful every time.
Ingredients
- Two large Honeycrisp apples: known for their balance of sweetness and firmness which works well for frying
- All-purpose flour: provides a light coating that crisps nicely
- Apple pie spice: adds warm autumn flavors choose a balanced blend without artificial aromas
- Cinnamon: gives a fragrant sweetness and crunch reserve some for the topping to double down on flavor
- Eggs: act as a sticky base helping the flour and sugar mixture cling to the apples
- Vanilla extract: adds a subtle background sweetness for depth
- Light brown sugar: is ideal for the topping offering caramel notes choose fresh sugar to avoid clumps
- Olive oil nonstick spray: helps achieve a crisp finish without excess oil
- Caramel sauce or powdered sugar glaze: makes for an optional but delicious finishing touch
Instructions
- Build The Apple Base:
- Peel and core apples using a peeler for ease then slice into half inch wedges. Uniform wedges ensure even cooking and the best texture.
- Create The Spice Mix:
- Whisk the flour apple pie spice and four tablespoons of cinnamon in a bowl. This mix brings the dominant flavor and crispy texture to the fries.
- Coat The Apples First Time:
- Transfer the spice mix into a large container with a lid. Add the apple wedges, cover, and shake vigorously. This evenly coats every slice in aromatic flour.
- Remove Excess Flour:
- Use a slotted spoon to lift wedges out letting excess flour fall back into the container. Arrange on a plate preparing for the egg wash step.
- Prepare The Egg Wash:
- In a clean bowl whisk the eggs and vanilla together until fully blended. This sticky wash allows the second coating to adhere well.
- Dredge The Apples:
- Dip a few wedges at a time into the egg wash making sure each piece is well coated.
- Coat The Apples Twice:
- Add the egg-dipped wedges back into the flour container and shake again to create a thicker crunchy crust.
- Mix The Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- Combine the brown sugar and leftover cinnamon in a small bowl. This sweet and spicy mix caramelizes perfectly when cooked.
- Air Fry The Fries First Side:
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange coated apples in a single even layer. Spray the top generously and sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar over them. Cook at 350 degrees for six minutes.
- Flip And Finish Cooking:
- Open the fryer and turn each piece carefully. Spray and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar coating. Cook for another six minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Pair the apple fries with caramel sauce or lightly dust powdered sugar glaze as you like. Eat immediately for best crunch and flavor.
I love how cinnamon sugar brings those nostalgic fall flavors right on the apple skin and how quick the air fryer makes this feel like a special treat. It reminds me of cozy afternoons spent baking with family and sharing sweet tidbits.
Storage tips
Store leftover apple fries in an airtight container but know they lose some crispness once cooled Reheat briefly in the air fryer or oven to refresh the crunch Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy
Ingredient swaps
Green apples like Granny Smith work well if you prefer a tart contrast You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blends for dietary needs Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ground ginger in place of apple pie spice
Serving ideas
Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an easy dessert Use as a crunchy topping on oatmeal or yogurt bowls Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener kick
Seasonal twists
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mix for texture in fall Toss apple wedges in lemon juice before coating to prevent browning Use pears in place of apples in winter for a similar sweet treat with a softer bite
This recipe is a delightful treat that transforms simple apples into a crunchy, flavorful snack with minimal fuss and maximum yum.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What apples work best for these apple fries?
Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture, which holds up well during frying.
- → How do I get the apple fries extra crispy?
Ensuring the apple wedges are spread out in a single layer and lightly spraying them with olive oil helps achieve a crispier texture.
- → Can I adjust the spice blend?
Yes, feel free to modify the cinnamon and apple pie spice amounts to suit your taste preferences.
- → Is it necessary to flip the apple fries during cooking?
Flipping halfway through cooking promotes even browning and a uniform crispiness on all sides.
- → What can I use instead of caramel sauce for serving?
If preferred, a simple powdered sugar glaze adds a light sweetness without overpowering the apple flavor.