Air Fryer Apple Fries

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Golden, crisp, and dusted with a cinnamon-sugar coating, these Air Fryer Apple Fries are the ultimate sweet treat that marries the comfort of warm apples with the crunch of perfectly cooked fries. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures: tender apple centers wrapped in a crispy shell, finished with a light drizzle of vanilla glaze. Whether you’re craving a cozy fall dessert or just want a quick snack fix, this recipe delivers in both flavor and simplicity.

What makes these apple fries especially appealing is how effortlessly they come together in the air fryer. There’s no need for deep frying or complicated batter work—just a simple coating and a short cook time to achieve that irresistible crisp. The result? A family-friendly, mess-free dessert that tastes indulgent but is surprisingly light. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm caramel dip for a next-level experience.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe

• Quick and easy to make—ready in under 20 minutes
• Uses minimal ingredients and no deep frying
• Perfect for kids and adults alike
• A healthier alternative to fried desserts
• Warm, cozy cinnamon flavor that’s ideal for fall or anytime

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Air Fryer Apple Fries, you’ll need a few essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient. First, an air fryer is key—it crisps up the apples with little to no oil, offering a healthier take on traditional frying. A paring knife helps peel and core the apples easily, while a cutting board ensures safe, uniform slicing. Use mixing bowls to combine your sugar and cinnamon coating evenly. A silicone brush or spray bottle is handy for lightly coating the fries with oil if needed, and tongs make transferring them in and out of the fryer clean and simple.

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Preparation Tips

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results—they hold their shape well during air frying and provide a balance of tart and sweet flavors. Make sure to slice the apples evenly so they cook uniformly. Patting them dry before coating helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick better and prevents sogginess. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer basket, which can lead to uneven cooking. And for a final sweet touch, drizzle with icing or caramel sauce right before serving.

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Ingredients for this Air Fryer Apple Fries Recipe

• 3 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
• 1–2 tablespoons melted butter or neutral oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
• Optional glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 teaspoons milk or cream
• Optional caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream for serving

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Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel the apples, then core and slice them into fry-like strips. Try to keep them similar in size for even cooking. If desired, toss the slices with lemon juice to prevent browning while you prepare the coating.

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Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until fully blended. Set aside a small portion if you’d like extra topping after frying.

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Step 3: Coat the Apple Slices

In a separate bowl, toss the apple slices with cornstarch or flour. This will help dry the surface for a crispier finish. Then, lightly brush or spray the slices with melted butter or oil. Toss the coated apples in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly covered.

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Step 4: Preheat and Load the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Once ready, arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding; work in batches if necessary for optimal crispiness.

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Step 5: Air Fry the Apple Fries

Cook the apple fries for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The fries should be golden brown and slightly caramelized around the edges when done.

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Step 6: Add Glaze or Serve

While still warm, drizzle the apple fries with the optional vanilla glaze or caramel sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a sweet side to brunch.

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Notes

Air Fryer Apple Fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer when they’re at their crispiest. However, they can still be enjoyed at room temperature, especially with a sweet dip. If you’re making them for a party or gathering, you can prep the apple slices and sugar mixture ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mix. You can also experiment with different types of apples for a range of textures and sweetness levels.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the basket: This prevents air from circulating properly, leading to soggy fries.
• Skipping the cornstarch/flour step: It helps absorb moisture and adds crispness.
• Not drying the apples thoroughly: Wet apples steam instead of crisp, leading to a limp texture.
• Using overly soft apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to hold up during cooking.
• Not preheating the air fryer: A hot air fryer ensures even cooking from the start.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover apple fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy. Freezing is not recommended as the texture degrades.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 190
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best apples to use?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples are ideal for their firm texture and sweet-tart flavor.

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Yes! You can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but you can leave the skin on for added fiber and color.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but cook them fresh for best results. Reheating doesn’t fully restore the original crispiness.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Try caramel sauce, cream cheese dip, or even vanilla yogurt.

How do I keep them from getting soggy?

Use firm apples, dry them well, coat evenly, and avoid overcrowding in the air fryer.

Can I use coconut sugar or brown sugar instead?

Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor, and coconut sugar works as a healthier alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for coating instead of wheat flour.

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Conclusion

Air Fryer Apple Fries are the perfect balance of sweet, crispy, and comforting. They offer a fun twist on traditional fries and are a delicious way to enjoy apples in a dessert form. With minimal effort and big flavor payoff, this recipe is sure to become a favorite whether you’re entertaining guests, looking for a healthier treat, or just indulging in some seasonal comfort food.

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