Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries

This crispy air fryer apple fries recipe transforms simple apples into a crunchy, cinnamon-spiced treat. The combination of a light, double coating and quick air frying produces fries that are crispy on the outside yet tender and juicy inside. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional fries or fried desserts, perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a fun fall dessert.

I first made these apple fries on a chilly autumn afternoon and instantly fell in love with how the air fryer delivered incredible crunch without all the oil. Now they are a favorite treat whenever apples are in season.

Ingredients List

• Two large Honeycrisp apples: chosen for their perfect balance of sweetness and firmness, ideal for frying without turning mushy
• All-purpose flour: acts as the base for the coating to help cinnamon and sugar adhere well
• Apple pie spice: blends warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves elevating the apple flavor
• Ground cinnamon: for that signature spiced aroma and taste choose fresh and fragrant sticks ground at home if possible
• Light brown sugar: adds both sweetness and moisture, enhancing the caramelized crust
• Two large eggs: mixed with vanilla extract create a silky wash that helps the coating stick evenly
• Olive oil nonstick spray: ensures even crisping without excess oil soakage
• Caramel sauce or powdered sugar glaze: offers an optional sweet finishing touch for serving

Cooking Steps

Prepare The Apples:

Peel each apple, then cut in half and slice into wedges about one and a quarter centimeters thick. Uniform wedges ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Mix The Dry Coating:

In a medium bowl, combine flour, apple pie spice, and four tablespoons of cinnamon. This mixture delivers both texture and flavor.

Coat The Apples Once:

Transfer the dry mixture into a large container with a lid. Add apple wedges, secure the lid tightly, and shake vigorously so each piece gets an even flour-based coat.

Prepare The Egg Wash:

Whisk together eggs and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will help the second coating stick well.

Double Coat The Apples:

Dip several apple wedges into the egg wash ensuring full coverage, then return them to the container with the dry mix. Shake thoroughly to form the second coating for extra crunch.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:

Mix the brown sugar and remaining one tablespoon cinnamon in a small bowl. This sweet spice topping brings irresistible flavor.

Arrange In Air Fryer:

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated apple fries in a single layer. If your basket is small, cook in batches for best results.

Air Fry First Side:

Spray the top facing apples liberally with olive oil and sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture over them. Air fry at 175 degrees Celsius for 6 minutes.

Flip And Finish:

Turn the apple fries over, spray again with olive oil, sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar, then air fry for an additional 6 minutes at the same temperature until golden and crisp.

Serve:

Enjoy immediately with optional drizzles of caramel sauce or a powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.

I love the way the cinnamon sugar caramelizes on the fries for that perfect warmth. These fries remind me of cozy afternoons spent baking with my kids during apple harvest season.

Best Storage Practices

To keep your apple fries as crispy as possible, they are best eaten right away. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at a lower temperature for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.

Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to swap Honeycrisp apples for Granny Smith if you prefer a tangier flavor and firmer texture. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend but note the texture may be a little different. You can also experiment with using maple syrup instead of vanilla extract for a richer aroma in the egg wash.

Serving Pairings

Serve warm apple fries alongside vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans adds wonderful texture and indulgence. These fries also pair beautifully with a hot cup of chai or spiced tea to complement the cinnamon flavors.

Seasonal Upgrades

Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to your dry coating during fall for extra warmth. In winter, consider adding a splash of orange zest to your egg wash for a festive citrus twist. In summer, fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of honey can brighten up the flavors wonderfully.

These apple fries bring back memories of crisp fall afternoons where the smell of cinnamon filled the kitchen. It’s a simple pleasure that turns healthy fruit into an irresistible treat your whole family will ask for again and again.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ What type of apples work best for apple fries?

Firm and crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

→ How do I get the apple fries crispy without frying in oil?

Using an air fryer with olive oil spray and a double coating of flour and spices helps create a crunchy exterior while keeping the apples tender inside.

→ Can I adjust the cinnamon sugar coating intensity?

Yes, you can vary the amount of cinnamon and brown sugar to suit your taste, applying more for a stronger spice and sweetness.

→ Is it better to slice apples thick or thin for this method?

Slices about half an inch thick work well for even cooking and maintain a satisfying texture without becoming mushy.

→ What are some serving suggestions for these apple fries?

These apple fries pair wonderfully with caramel sauce, powdered sugar glaze, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch.