Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries

This crispy air fryer apple fries recipe transforms ordinary apples into a delightful dessert that satisfies sweet cravings without deep frying. The combination of warm spices and the natural sweetness of apples creates a treat that's reminiscent of apple pie but in a fun, handheld format that both kids and adults love.

I created this recipe last fall when my children were begging for something sweet after dinner. The delighted looks on their faces when they bit into these warm apple fries convinced me this needed to become a regular in our dessert rotation.

• Granny Smith apples: their tartness balances the sweet coating and they hold their shape well during cooking
• All purpose flour: creates the base for the crispy coating
• Powdered sugar: adds sweetness without the graininess of regular sugar
• Ground cinnamon: brings warm aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with apples
• Ground nutmeg: adds a subtle earthy note that enhances the other spices
• Ground cloves: provides depth and complexity to the spice blend
• Spray cooking oil: helps achieve that perfect golden crispiness without deep frying

How To Make Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries

Mix the Coating:

Combine flour powdered sugar cinnamon nutmeg and cloves in a large resealable bag. The bag method ensures even coating without creating extra dishes. Make sure to seal completely and shake vigorously to incorporate all spices uniformly throughout the mixture.

Prepare the Apples:

Peel the apples completely to allow the coating to adhere properly. Cut them into half inch wedges first then slice each wedge into fry shapes about a quarter inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking so try to keep the pieces similar in thickness.

Coat the Apples:

Place apple strips into the spice mixture bag seal tightly and shake gently but thoroughly. The coating should stick to the slightly moist surface of the fresh apple pieces. If the coating seems too thin add another round of shaking.

Arrange in Air Fryer:

Carefully place the coated apple pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket leaving small spaces between each piece. This allows the hot air to circulate fully around each apple fry creating maximum crispiness. Work in batches if needed rather than overcrowding.

Cook to Perfection:

Air fry at 375°F for the first 5 minutes then open and flip each piece using tongs or a gentle shake of the basket. The underside should be turning golden brown. After flipping cook another 5 minutes watching closely in the final minute to prevent burning.

Serve Warm:

Allow the apple fries to cool just enough to handle but serve while still warm for the best texture and flavor. The contrast between the crisp exterior and tender warm interior is what makes these irresistible.

Pin it

The cinnamon in this recipe is truly the star ingredient. I discovered that using Ceylon cinnamon rather than regular Cassia cinnamon gives these fries a more delicate floral quality that elevates the entire dessert. My grandmother always said that cinnamon is what makes apple desserts feel like a warm hug and these apple fries certainly prove her right.

Perfect Dipping Sauces

These apple fries pair beautifully with various dipping options. Try serving them with a simple caramel sauce for a classic combination that mimics caramel apples. Vanilla yogurt mixed with a touch of honey creates a tangy contrast to the sweet spiced coating. For something more indulgent warm cream cheese frosting makes these feel like deconstructed apple pie with cream cheese icing.

Storage Tips

While these apple fries are best enjoyed immediately after cooking they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 3 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy and lose their delightful texture.

Pin it

Apple Variety Alternatives

While Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe other varieties can work wonderfully too. Honeycrisp apples offer a sweeter profile with excellent crispness. Pink Lady apples provide a good balance of sweet and tart with a firm texture that holds up well to air frying. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh or Red Delicious as they tend to become mushy during cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the fries are crispy?

Lightly spritz the apple fries with cooking oil before and after flipping them in the air fryer. Avoid overcrowding the basket for proper air circulation.

→ Can I use other apple varieties?

Yes, but Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture. Sweeter apples may work but could result in a softer texture.

→ What dipping sauces pair well?

Caramel, vanilla yogurt, or even a cinnamon-spiced cream cheese dip complement the apple fries perfectly.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them warm and crispy in a preheated oven at low heat while finishing other batches.

→ What alternative spices can I use?

Apple pie spice makes a great substitute for the individual spices, providing a rich and balanced flavor.