If you’re searching for a wholesome treat that combines the nostalgia of apple pie with the irresistible crunch of fries, look no further than this Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe. These golden sticks are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and dusted with a sparkling coating of cinnamon and sugar. Ready in just 25 minutes, they’re a crowd-pleaser for both little ones and grown-ups, and they hit that sweet spot between snack and dessert. Whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe showcases apples in a deliciously unexpected way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Nonstick cooking spray
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by peeling and coring your apples. Slice them into thin sticks, about the size and shape of classic French fries. Keeping the apple pieces somewhat uniform ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness in your final Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe.
Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station
Arrange three shallow bowls. In the first, put the all-purpose flour. In the second, beat the eggs with the milk until well blended. The third bowl is where the magic happens: mix the panko breadcrumbs with the cinnamon and sugar. Each station has a purpose and guarantees that every apple fry gets its layers of flavor and texture.
Step 3: Dredge and Coat
Working a few pieces at a time, dredge each apple stick in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip next into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Finally, roll each piece in the cinnamon-sugar panko mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres. This triple-layer process locks in moisture and produces that signature crunch.
Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer Basket
Lay the coated apple fries in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd; give them some space to breathe and crisp. Lightly mist the tops with nonstick cooking spray so you get that beautiful golden finish on every fry.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), and cook the apple fries for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. What you’ll see is a gorgeous transformation: the coating becomes golden and crispy, while the apple inside stays tender and juicy. If you want extra crunch, let them go an extra minute or two—but keep a close eye so nothing burns!
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Just before serving, sprinkle your fries with a little extra cinnamon sugar for sparkle and a boost of sweetness. Or, drizzle with warm caramel sauce for pure indulgence. A dusting of powdered sugar is also delightful, giving you that fairground treat vibe.
Side Dishes
Pair your apple fries with bowls of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for dipping. For something richer, try a ramekin of caramel or chocolate sauce. Fresh berries on the side are also a fab, refreshing complement to the warm, spiced apple flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe in a parchment-lined cup or a fry basket, just like classic French fries. For parties, thread a few on skewers or stack them on a platter with dipping sauces arranged on the side for a fun, interactive dessert board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftover apple fries, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
While the Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Arrange cooled fries on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to a month, though the texture may soften slightly after thawing.
Reheating
To re-crisp apple fries, pop them straight into the air fryer at 350°F for about 3–4 minutes, until warmed through and crunchy again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Snack
Absolutely! While Fuji and Honeycrisp are ideal for their firm texture and balanced flavor, you can experiment with Granny Smith for tartness or Gala for a milder sweetness. Just be sure to pick an apple that holds its shape when cooked.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, but panko delivers a lighter, crunchier coating. If using regular, consider toasting them for a minute or two before dredging to boost crispiness.
Can I make the Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and use gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal in place of traditional panko. The end result will still have great texture and flavor.
How can I get my apple fries extra crispy?
For ultra-crisp fries, use chilled apples before breading, and don’t skip the light spritz of nonstick spray right before air frying. Air frying in a single layer and avoiding overcrowding the basket is also key.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?
Replace eggs with a mixture of dairy-free milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch whisked together to create a sticky wash. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere while keeping the fries plant-based.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a snack that’s fun, quick, and a little bit magical, this Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe is going to steal your heart (and maybe your afternoon). Give them a try—you’ll be amazed how something so simple transforms into a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing treat. Enjoy every crunchy, cinnamon-scented bite!
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful snack with these Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries. Coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar panko mixture, these apple sticks come out golden and crispy in the air fryer, perfect for dipping in caramel sauce or vanilla yogurt.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and core the apples, then slice them into thin fry-like sticks.
- Dredge the Apples: Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls for flour, egg mixture, and panko breadcrumbs with cinnamon and sugar. Dip each apple slice into the flour, egg, and panko mixture.
- Air Fry: Place the coated apple fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with caramel sauce or vanilla yogurt for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use chilled apples before breading.
- You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the breadcrumb mixture for extra warmth.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
