crispy air fryer apple fries

Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries are the answer for whenever you crave something sweet but also want to keep things a little lighter. Apple wedges get coated in a spiced breadcrumb crust and turn buttery-soft inside with an irresistible crunch outside. These are perfect for after-school snacks or when you want a no-fuss party platter that makes everyone smile.

I first made these apple fries for a family movie night and they disappeared so fast I barely got to taste one. Now we make them together every fall when apples are at their best.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Large apples: use Granny Smith for a tart bite or Honeycrisp for a sweeter fry. Firm apples hold shape during air frying
• All-purpose flour: this dries the surface for the crispiest coating
• Large eggs: bind the crumb layer snugly to each apple slice
• Panko breadcrumbs: deliver unbeatable crunch choose fresh panko or even smash up some stale bread for homemade
• Ground cinnamon: brings warm bakery flavor choose a fresh jar for best aroma
• Granulated sugar: a must for the classic churro-like taste use fine sugar for even coating
• Cooking spray: ensures the outside gets crisp instead of dry
• Caramel sauce or vanilla yogurt for dipping: caramel gives richness while yogurt adds creamy tang and keeps things lighter. Get the best quality or your favorite store-bought brand

How to Make It

Prepare the Apples:

Peel apples if you prefer or leave skins for extra fiber. Slice into half-inch thick wedges removing all core and seeds. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl and set aside

Set Up the Breading Station:

Place the flour in one bowl. Put the beaten eggs in a second bowl. Add panko breadcrumbs to a third bowl and stir in half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture

Coat the Apple Slices:

Dredge each apple slice lightly in flour making sure to coat every side. Tap off extra flour to avoid clumping. Dip coated slice into beaten egg turning to cover well. Place into breadcrumb mixture pressing gently so the panko sticks all over. Line up finished slices on a plate while you do the rest

Air Fry:

Preheat your air fryer to three hundred seventy five degrees for three minutes. Arrange breaded apple slices in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for eight to ten minutes flipping halfway so both sides become golden brown and crispy

Serve:

Right after air frying while apple fries are hot sprinkle over the reserved cinnamon-sugar if more sweetness is wanted. Serve with caramel sauce or vanilla yogurt for dipping and enjoy immediately

I am always amazed by how cinnamon brings out the natural sweetness and aroma of apples every time I make these. My daughter loves dipping hers in vanilla yogurt and we have fun coming up with new dip ideas each time we cook them.

Flavor Boosters

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mix for depth. For extra crunch stir some finely chopped pecans into the panko. Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in autumn. A touch of lemon zest brightens the apple flavor in summer months.

Serving Suggestions

Pile hot apple fries on a platter and drizzle with warm caramel sauce or give each person their own cup for dipping. For a dessert bar set out dips like chocolate sauce, Greek yogurt and whipped cream. They shine as a brunch treat dusted with extra cinnamon-sugar beside pancakes or waffles.

Creative Twists

If you run out of panko use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed graham crackers for honey flavor. Substitute pumpkin pie or apple pie spice for cinnamon. Gluten-free flour and panko work well so everyone can enjoy. Try using pears or peaches for a summery change.

Let everyone mix and match dips for a dessert board experience. Dry apple slices well for crispier coating and experiment with various spices for endless flavor combinations.

Recipe FAQs

→ Which type of apple works best?

Firm and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide a balanced flavor.

→ How do I keep the fries crispy?

Arrange fries in a single air fryer layer and serve immediately for the best crunch.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Popular dips include caramel sauce, vanilla yogurt, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream.

→ How thick should I slice the apples?

Cut apples into wedges about 1/2 inch thick to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.

→ Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes, reheat apple fries in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.