Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe

If you are looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy apples beyond the usual slices, this Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine crisp, golden apple sticks coated in warm spices and lightly fried to perfection without the guilt of deep frying—just pure apple goodness with a sweet cinnamon sugar kiss and a luscious vanilla icing dip that makes every bite feel like a cozy fall treat. Whether you want a snack, dessert, or something to impress guests, these apple fries will become your new favorite go-to!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe are wonderfully simple but crucial to achieving that perfect balance of crispness, sweetness, and spice. Each one plays a key role in creating the texture and flavor that makes these apple fries so irresistible.

• Granny Smith apples: Their tartness holds up well in cooking and contrasts beautifully with the sweet coatings.
• All-purpose flour (130 grams): Forms the crispy coating and helps the spices stick.
• Apple pie spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices that brings comforting autumn flavors.
• Large eggs: Act as a binder that helps the flour and spice mix adhere to the apple fries.
• Cinnamon sugar: Sprinkled on hot fries for a perfect sweet and spicy finish.
• Cooking spray: Ensures that the fries air fry to a light crisp without sticking.
• Confectioners sugar: Key for making the smooth, sweet vanilla icing dip.
• Vanilla extract: Adds rich flavor to the icing that complements the cinnamon notes.
• Whole milk: Used to thin out the icing to a drizzle-able consistency.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling the Granny Smith apples to remove the skin and achieve a tender bite. Using a sharp knife or fry cutter, slice the apples into thin, fry-like strips. Setting these aside gives you a clean slate to get all your coatings ready.

Step 2: Mix the Flour and Apple Pie Spice

In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the apple pie spice. Whisking these together ensures that every fry gets an even dusting of warm, comforting flavor.

Step 3: Whisk the Eggs

In a separate dish, whisk the eggs thoroughly until smooth. These will help the coating adhere beautifully to the apple fries, giving that crisp texture when cooked.

Step 4: First Flour Coat

Working in small batches, toss the apple strips into the flour and spice mixture. Use a slotted spoon to scoop them out, shaking off any excess flour. This delicate step ensures the fries don’t end up soggy.

Step 5: Egg Dip and Second Flour Layer

Dip each floured apple fry into the whisked eggs, shaking off extra egg, and immediately place them back into the flour mixture for a second coat. Double-dusting guarantees a crispy exterior once air fried.

Step 6: Ready to Air Fry

Make sure all your apple fries are well coated but without clumps of flour. Arrange them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper to catch any falling flour, which keeps the prep area tidy.

Step 7: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating ensures that the fries start crisping right away for that perfect texture.

Step 8: Basket Preparation

Generously spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the apple fries in a single layer without overlapping, then spray their tops to help them brown evenly.

Step 9: Cook and Flip

Air fry the apple fries for 5 minutes, then carefully toss and spray them again before cooking for another 5 minutes. This flipping step is the secret to golden, crispy results on all sides.

Step 10: Add Cinnamon Sugar

Immediately transfer the hot fries to a cooling rack or another basket and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar. The heat will melt the sugar just enough for it to stick and form a dreamy glaze.

Step 11: Repeat for Batches

Cook remaining batches the same way, tossing each with cinnamon sugar while still warm to maintain that delightful coating.

Step 12: Whip Up the Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (adding milk one tablespoon at a time). The goal is a smooth, pourable icing that adds a luscious touch to the apple fries.

Step 13: Serve Immediately

These apple fries are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer. Serve with the vanilla icing either drizzled on top or as a dip so everyone can personalize their sweet experience.

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar can make them look extra festive and inviting for gatherings.

Side Dishes

Pair these apple fries with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to turn them into a decadent dessert. For a snack twist, serve alongside a cup of chai tea or spiced cider.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your apple fries in individual mini baskets or rustic wooden trays lined with parchment paper for a charming presentation. Drizzle the vanilla icing just before serving so it stays glossy and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover apple fries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. To keep them crispy, place a piece of paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing

While freshly cooked is best, you can freeze uncoated apple strips separately arranged on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw and follow the coating and cooking steps fresh.

Reheating

To revive leftovers, pop your apple fries back into the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to retain crispness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are perfect for their tartness and firmness, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples. Just know that sweeter apples will yield a sweeter result.

Is it necessary to double coat the apple fries?

Yes, the double coating with flour and eggs helps achieve that light, crispy crust on the outside while keeping the apple tender on the inside. Skipping this step can make the fries less crispy.

Can I bake the apple fries instead of using an air fryer?

You can bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. However, the air fryer gives a superior crispiness with less oil.

How do I make the vanilla icing thicker or thinner?

Adjust the icing by adding more confectioners sugar to thicken or add additional milk, a teaspoon at a time, to thin it out until you reach the perfect drizzle consistency.

Are these apple fries gluten-free?

The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not naturally gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend that works for frying and baking.

Final Thoughts

If you are ready to elevate your snack game, this Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe is a must-try that combines warmth, sweetness, and comfort in every bite. It’s easy to make, healthier than traditional fried treats, and absolutely delightful for all ages. Once you try them, I promise, these apple fries will quickly become a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

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