Pin it
Sweet apple wedges get a dusting of cinnamon and sugar, then crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. It's a treat that's both crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle, so you don't miss deep frying. You'll get that warm apple pie vibe in every bite, but they're way more fun to snack on, whether you're a kid or grown up.
I came up with these apple fries because my kids always wanted something sweet after school. The air fryer totally changes how apples taste—it's like eating a whole new snack. When my youngest said they'd pick these over french fries, I knew I'd made something special.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Caramel sauce: Perfect for dipping and boosting the pie-like flavor
- Cooking spray: Helps everything get brown and crispy but keeps it lighter
- Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy, spicy kick that pairs so well with apple
- Granulated sugar: Brings just the right level of sweetness
- Breadcrumbs: Panko works best if you want serious crunch
- Large eggs: Make sure the sugary crumb coating stays put
- All-purpose flour: Gives apples their first coating so stuff sticks
- Fresh apples: Use whatever kind you like—Granny Smith for tart, something sweeter like Honeycrisp if you want more sugar
Simple Directions
- Air Frying:
- First, spray the air fryer basket and the tops of the apples with cooking spray. Set your air fryer to 375°F. Lay out the wedges, cook them 4 to 5 minutes per side until they're perfectly crisp and golden.
- Coating Apples:
- Start by rolling each apple slice in flour. Dip next into the egg, then press into the bowl with your breadcrumb, cinnamon, and sugar blend. Make sure they're coated all over.
- Bread Station Prep:
- Grab three bowls: put flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and mix your breadcrumbs with cinnamon and sugar in the third.
- Apple Wedges:
- Peel and core your apples, slice them evenly and dry them off with paper towels. You don't want any extra moisture on them.
Pin it
Fall apple fries nights are a big deal in our house, especially after picking apples together. I mix Granny Smith for some tart flavor and Honeycrisp for sweet—everyone gets their favorite. They're even better when dunked into homemade caramel.
Best Serving Ideas
Set the apple fries on a platter with caramel for dipping, chocolate sauce, vanilla custard, and a cinnamon-spiked whipped cream. Or toss a handful over vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of caramel on top for an easy upgrade.
Tasty Twists
For maple pecan, blend maple sugar and chopped toasted pecans into the coating. Feeling festive? Add ginger, nutmeg, and a bit of clove for that gingerbread vibe. Try coconut shreds and lime zest for a tropical touch.
Keeping Them Fresh
Keep leftover fries sealed up on the counter for up to two days. If they get soft, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for three minutes to get them crunchy again.
Pin it
We've tested loads of air fryer desserts, but apple fries are always the favorite in our home. You get a sweet, rich bite without overdoing it on sugar or fat. It's a simple way to make fresh fruit feel special.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these apple fries ahead of time?
- You can definitely prep the coated apples earlier in the day and pop them in the fridge. Wait to air fry until you’re ready to eat so they stay fresh and crispy.
- → How do I store leftover apple fries?
- Let them cool, then stash in a sealed container in your fridge for two days max. Heat them back up in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to get them crunchy again.
- → What other dipping sauces work well with apple fries?
- Why not try melting some chocolate, pouring a little maple syrup, a swirl of honey, creamy frosting, or even peanut butter for dipping.
- → Can I add other spices to the breadcrumb mixture?
- Of course! Toss in things like nutmeg, ground ginger, cardamom, or even pumpkin spice for a twist.
- → What's the best way to prevent the breading from falling off?
- Pat the apple wedges dry before starting, squish the breadcrumb right onto each slice, and be gentle putting them in the air fryer so the coating stays put.