Imagine biting into a crisp apple “fry” that’s warm, sweet-spiced and slightly caramelized around the edges then dipping it into a drizzle of vanilla glaze or caramel sauce. These Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries bring that snack to life in under half an hour, thanks to your air fryer. Perfect for fall evenings, a quick dessert or a fun snack with friends.
What Is Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries / Why It’s Special
These apple fries take fresh apple wedges, coat them in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture (and optionally a light batter), then crisp them in an air fryer instead of deep-frying. What makes them special is the satisfying crunch paired with tender, juicy apple inside delivered with minimal oil and effort. The air fryer gives the coating golden crispness while the apple stays flavorful and soft. It’s a snack or dessert that looks fun, tastes indulgent, and comes together quickly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp or Gala)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or a light batter alternative)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or oil mist for air fryer basket
For the cinnamon-sugar topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 Tbsp milk (to reach drizzle consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your air fryer to 325 °F (≈ 163 °C) or follow your air-fryer’s recommended setting for sweet snacks. Lightly spray or grease the air-fryer basket to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Slice the Apples
Peel the apples if desired and slice each into “fries”‐style wedges about ½-inch thick works well. Make sure wedges are uniform so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Coat the Apple Wedges
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon and brown sugar. Place the beaten eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each apple wedge into the egg, then into the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Place coated apples onto a plate or tray ready to air-fry.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crisp
Lay the coated apple wedges in a single layer in the pre-heated air-fryer basket. Mist the top lightly with oil spray. Cook for about 5 minutes, then turn the wedges, mist again, and continue cooking another 5 minutes (approx. 8-10 minutes total) or until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Topping & Serve
While the fries are still hot, toss or sprinkle them with the granulated sugar-cinnamon mix so it sticks. If using the vanilla glaze, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla and milk until smooth and drizzle over the warm apple fries. Serve immediately for best texture.
Tips / Variations / Why You’ll Love It
- Tip: Use a tart apple like Granny Smith if you want more contrast with the sweet coating; sweeter apples like Honeycrisp create a softer texture.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the air-fryer basket making sure each wedge has space helps them crisp instead of steaming.
- Variation: Skip the flour coating and simply toss wedges in cinnamon-sugar for a lighter version.
- Variation: Serve with a warm caramel dip, nut-butter drizzle or even vanilla ice cream on top for dessert.
- Why You’ll Love It: The balance of crisp coating and tender fruity inside, plus the fun “fries” concept, make this a snack that feels special yet it’s simple and fast.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, Pre-heat oven to ~400 °F (≈ 200 °C), place the coated apple wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp.
Q2. Do I need to peel the apples?
No, but if you prefer a smoother texture and uniform coating, peeling helps. Leaving the skin adds color and texture.
Q3. How long will leftovers stay crisp?
These are best enjoyed immediately while warm and crisp. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the air fryer at 350 °F for 2–3 minutes, but they may lose crunch.
Q4. What apples are best for this recipe?
Firm apples that hold their shape under heat are best (e.g., Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, Braeburn). Avoid very soft apples that may turn mushy.
Conclusion
These Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries bring the joy of a snack or dessert into mere minutes apple wedges coated, air-fried to crisp, and drizzled or dipped just for fun. Whether it’s autumn comfort, a sweet highlight after dinner, or a simple treat at any time, they’ll hit the spot.
✨ Try it this week and tag @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or Instagram because comfort should always be this delicious!