Save
These apple fries made in the air fryer are a tasty and healthier twist on regular fries. They mix a crunchy sweet bite with cozy cinnamon, perfect for a quick munch or a light dessert you can feel good about.
I threw these together when I wanted something warm and sweet but simple to fix. They've quickly become a favorite afternoon snack around the house.
What You Need
- 2 big apples: Honeycrisp adds sweetness, Granny Smith gives a tart punch. Fresh firm apples hold up best when cooked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: adds a nice crunch. Plain or lightly spiced works great
- 1 large egg: sticks the coating to the apples and helps with crispiness. Best at room temp
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: gives a base for the egg wash to cling to. Unbleached tastes cleaner
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: sweetens and caramelizes in the fryer. Fine sugar covers better
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: brings warm, cozy spice. Fresh cinnamon smells best
- 2 tablespoons milk: thins out the egg wash for easier dipping. Whole milk adds richness but any kind works
- Nonstick spray: helps get a golden finish without extra oil. Use a good quality spray to avoid greasiness
Steps
- Make The Apple Fries:
- Slice apples into strips like fries. Peeling is up to you. Pat them dry well so the coating grabs on tight.
- Mix The Coating:
- Use three shallow bowls. Put flour in one. Whisk egg and milk together in the second. In the last, stir panko, sugar, and cinnamon for the crunchy coating.
- Cover Each Apple Stick:
- Coat an apple stick in flour first, making sure it’s lightly covered. Then dip it in the egg mix so extra drips off. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mix evenly. Do this for all apple fries.
- Crisp In The Air Fryer:
- Lay the coated apple sticks on a rack or tray. Spray lightly with nonstick spray to help browning. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket so they cook evenly. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 7 to 9 minutes. Shake or turn halfway through for even crispiness. They’re ready when golden and crunchy.
- Enjoy Right Away:
- Best eaten immediately while outside is crispy and inside stays tender and sweet.
Cinnamon brings a cozy warmth that goes perfectly with the apples. It reminds me of fall afternoons baking with family. The smell fills the kitchen with a comfy vibe every time I make this.
Keep It Fresh
Put any leftover apple fries in an airtight container in the fridge but know they won't stay quite as crisp. Warm them up gently in the air fryer or oven to get some crunch back. Avoid microwaving since that makes them soggy.
Swap Ideas
For a tangier twist, pick less sweet apple types. Pears work too if you slice them thin but cut down cooking time a bit. Any plant-based milk can replace dairy milk to fit your diet.
Tasty Ways To Serve
These apple fries are tasty on their own or with vanilla ice cream or some Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup boosts the natural sweetness.
I found a few tricks that really help. Using panko instead of regular crumbs makes it crunchier. Also, drying the apples well keeps the coating from falling off while cooking. This has quickly become my go-to for a simple yet special dessert.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which apples work best for these sticks?
Apples that are firm and a little tart like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp keep their shape and go great with the sweet coating.
- → Is peeling the apples necessary?
It’s up to you. The skin adds some texture and nutrients but might make them less crisp.
- → How do I get the coating to stick well?
Dry the apple sticks first then dip them in flour, then egg, and finally the breadcrumb mix. This 3-step process helps the coating stay put.
- → What air fryer temp and time is best?
Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the fries halfway so they cook evenly.
- → Can I add other spices to the coating?
Definitely! A little nutmeg or cardamom works great to bring out warm spicy notes in the crumbs.