One day, my son asked me for french fries, but I wanted to give him something a little bit healthier, so I whipped up a batch of these Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries.
Now, they’re a family favorite! They’re so easy to make, and they’re ready in about 25 minutes.
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and kid-friendly snack.
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Why You’ll Love These Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries
- Quicker: Air frying significantly cuts down on cooking time compared to traditional oven-baked fries.
- Healthier: They’re much healthier than deep-fried alternatives, with less oil and fewer calories.
- Fun to Make: Kids love helping with this recipe, from slicing the apples to tossing them in cinnamon sugar.
- Minimal Cleanup: Air frying means no messy oil splatters and easy cleanup.
What are Apple Fries?
Apple fries are a delightful twist on traditional french fries, using apples instead of potatoes.
They offer a healthier and fun alternative, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the guilt. I love serving them as a snack or even as a light dessert.
They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with apple flavor! For another easy recipe that is perfect for breakfast, try this Ultimate Cheesy English Muffin Breakfast Pizza Recipe.
Best Apples for Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries
When it comes to making the best air fryer apple fries, the type of apple you choose matters! I’ve found that firmer apples hold their shape better and provide a more satisfying texture.
My go-to choice is Granny Smith for its tartness that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar.
Apple Variety Comparison Table
| Apple Type | Sweetness | Tartness | Texture in Air Fryer | Best Use for This Recipe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith | Low | High | Firm, slightly soft | Ideal |
| Honeycrisp | High | Medium | Crisp, can get mushy | Good, watch closely |
| Fuji | High | Low | Soft, less structured | Okay, but not the best |
How to Cut Apples for Fries
To achieve perfectly cooked apple fries, uniform cuts are key. I start by peeling the apples and then slicing them into 1/4-inch thick planks.
From there, I cut each plank into fry-shaped strips. Consistent sizing ensures that the fries cook evenly in the air fryer, resulting in that desirable crispy exterior.
Looking for another quick and easy recipe? Check out this Ultimate Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread: Easy and Quick!
Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious treats:
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
- 1 cup all purpose flour* (130 grams)
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar
- cooking spray
- 1 cup confectioners sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons whole milk
*For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free all-purpose flour.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries: Step-by-Step
- Peel the apples. Using a sharp knife or a fry cutter, slice the apples into thin strips. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour with the apple pie spice. Whisk well.
- Whisk the eggs in a separate dish.
- Working in small batches, toss the apple fries into the flour, scoop them up using a slotted spoon, and shake off the excess flour.
- Then dip each apple fry into the whisked eggs, shake off excess egg and then place them back into the flour and spice mixture. Turn to coat.
- Make sure all of the apple fries are coated, but that the extra flour has been shaken off. This is important so that they crisp up. Place them on a wire rack with parchment paper underneath. The parchment will catch any excess flour that falls off, making it easy to clean up.
- Preheat the air fryer to 325ºF.
- Spray the bottom of your basket generously with cooking spray (or I like to use oil in a spray bottle). Place the apple fries in the basket so they are not overlapping. Generously spray the tops of the fries with additional cooking oil.
- Cook for 5 minutes, turn the apple fries, spray them again and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the fries and place onto another cooling rack or basket and immediately sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. You want the fries to be hot when sprinkling with sugar so that the sugar sticks. (There is no sugar in the flour mixture so the apple fries won’t be very sweet without this!)
- Cook additional batches of apple fries and toss with cinnamon sugar while still warm.
- Make the icing by whisking the confectioners sugar, vanilla and milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, in a small bowl.
- The fries are best served immediately. Serve the icing as a dip with your fries or drizzle it over them.
Dipping Sauce Ideas for Air Fryer Apple Fries
While these apple fries are delicious on their own, a dipping sauce can take them to the next level. Of course, there’s the icing made in the recipe. But here are other delicious options:
- Caramel Sauce: A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the apples.
- Salted Caramel: A salty-sweet combo that adds depth of flavor.
- Maple-Cinnamon Yogurt: A creamy, spiced dip that complements the apple pie spice.
- Peanut Butter Cup Dip: For a richer, more decadent treat.
Tips for Extra Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries
To achieve maximum crispiness, follow these tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the apple fries are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even air circulation.
- Use Enough Cooking Spray: A generous spray of cooking oil helps the fries crisp up nicely.
- Properly Coat: Make sure each apple fry is fully coated in the flour and spice mixture for that perfect crispy exterior. You might also enjoy these Healthy Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, but don’t worry! Here are solutions to common issues:
- Why are my apple fries soggy? This is likely due to overcrowding or not enough cooking spray. Make sure to cook in batches and use a generous amount of oil.
- How do I prevent burning? Keep a close eye on the fries during the last few minutes of cooking and adjust the temperature if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer apple fries make a fantastic snack on their own, but they also pair well with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- A warm cup of coffee or tea.
- A side of Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 325°F for a few minutes until crispy again.
Substitutions and Variations
| Variation | Substitution/Change |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Use a flax egg and non-dairy milk. |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free all-purpose flour. |
| Other Fruits | Try pears instead of apples. |
| Savory Apple Fries | Omit the cinnamon sugar and use savory spices like garlic powder and paprika. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of apples are best for air frying?
Granny Smith apples are my top choice due to their firm texture and tartness.
Do I have to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps ensure even cooking and crispiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover apple fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when air frying apple fries?
Overcrowding the basket, not using enough cooking spray, and not shaking off excess flour are common mistakes.
How to avoid burning the cinnamon sugar while air frying?
Keep the temperature at 325°F and monitor closely.
Can I use other spices besides apple pie spice?
Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a blend of your favorite spices work well too.
Conclusion
These Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries are a quick, easy, and delicious treat that the whole family will love. I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your home, just like it has in mine.
Now I want to know, did you try this recipe? What did you think? Leave a comment below, ask me your questions, share your results, and tag Delish Map on social media. Happy cooking!
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Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel the apples. Using a sharp knife or a fry cutter, slice the apples into thin strips. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour with the apple pie spice. Whisk well.
- Whisk the eggs in a separate dish.
- Working in small batches, toss the apple fries into the flour, scoop them up using a slotted spoon, and shake off the excess flour.
- Then dip each apple fry into the whisked eggs, shake off excess egg and then place them back into the flour and spice mixture. Turn to coat.
- Make sure all of the apple fries are coated, but that the extra flour has been shaken off. This is important so that they crisp up. Place them on a wire rack with parchment paper underneath. The parchment will catch any excess flour that falls off, making it easy to clean up.
- Preheat the air fryer to 325ºF.
- Spray the bottom of your basket generously with cooking spray (or I like to use oil in a spray bottle). Place the apple fries in the basket so they are not overlapping. Generously spray the tops of the fries with additional cooking oil.
- Cook for 5 minutes, turn the apple fries, spray them again and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the fries and place onto another cooling rack or basket and immediately sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. You want the fries to be hot when sprinkling with sugar so that the sugar sticks. (There is no sugar in the flour mixture so the apple fries won’t be very sweet without this!)
- Cook additional batches of apple fries and toss with cinnamon sugar while still warm.
- Make the icing by whisking the confectioners sugar, vanilla and milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, in a small bowl.
- The fries are best served immediately. Serve the icing as a dip with your fries or drizzle it over them.
