Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries are a fun and tasty treat that’s a little sweet, a little crunchy, and totally addictive. Imagine thin slices of apple coated with a light cinnamon sugar sprinkle, cooked until golden and crisp in the air fryer. They have that perfect little snap when you bite in, and the warm spices make them feel just like a cozy fall dessert.
I love making these apple fries because they’re quick to prepare and feel like a guilt-free snack. Using the air fryer means you get that amazing crispiness without needing to deep fry or add a lot of oil. Plus, they’re perfect for when you want something a bit special but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
My favorite way to enjoy these fries is with a little dollop of vanilla yogurt or a drizzle of honey on the side. They’re great for a fun afternoon treat or even a simple dessert after dinner. Every time I make them, they disappear fast—so be ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith gives a nice tartness and stays firm, while Honeycrisp is sweeter and crisp. Both work well, so pick your favorite or what’s available.
Flour & Eggs: These help the coating stick to the apples. If you need a gluten-free option, try almond or oat flour and ensure eggs fit your diet or use a flax egg substitute.
Panko Breadcrumbs & Parmesan: Panko creates a light, crispy crust. Parmesan adds flavor and extra crunch but is optional. For a dairy-free version, just skip the cheese.
Cinnamon & Sugar: These warm spices add sweetness and aroma. You can adjust the amount or swap sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor.
How Can I Get Perfectly Crispy Apple Fries in the Air Fryer?
Getting that crunchy outside with tender apple inside is all about coating and air frying technique:
- Dry apples slightly with paper towels before coating to help the flour stick better.
- Press the panko firmly onto the apple wedges so it sticks well.
- Use a light spray of oil to help crispen the coating without sogginess.
- Arrange apples in a single layer to ensure even air circulation and flip halfway to brown all sides.
- Cook close to 375°F for 10-12 minutes — too low, and they won’t crisp; too high, and they might burn.
Doing these steps helps you achieve golden, crispy apple fries that aren’t soggy or mushy. Patience and careful layering make all the difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend this because it crisps the apple fries evenly without much oil.
- Three shallow bowls – useful for setting up your coating stations: flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb blend.
- Paring knife – handy for coring and slicing apples into wedges.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Cooking spray or oil mister – helps crisp up the coating and adds a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle for extra sweetness and fun toppings.
- Add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg along with cinnamon for a warm spice twist.
- Mix in crushed nuts or shredded coconut with the breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.
- Try dipping sauces like vanilla yogurt or honey for extra richness.
Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Apple Fries:
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced into wedges
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added crispiness and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Cooking spray or oil mist
For Serving (Optional):
- Sweet chili sauce or honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. That means in less than 25 minutes, you’ll enjoy warm, crispy apple fries ready to savor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Coating
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats up, set up three shallow bowls: in one, mix together flour, cinnamon, and salt; in the second, beat the eggs until smooth; and in the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), and sugar.
2. Coat the Apple Wedges
Take each apple wedge and dip it into the flour mixture first, gently shaking off the extra flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the apple wedge into the panko breadcrumb mixture so the coating sticks well.
3. Arrange and Air Fry
Place the coated apple wedges in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or oil mist to help crisp them up. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping the apple fries halfway through so they brown evenly and become crispy.
4. Cool and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the apple fries to a plate lined with parchment paper and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your crispy, sweet, and crunchy apple fries as a delicious snack or dessert!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh apples because frozen ones release extra moisture, which can make the coating soggy. If you only have frozen apples, thaw them completely and pat them very dry before coating and air frying.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness instead of using a microwave, which can make them soft.
Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Ensure any added Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free if that’s a concern.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces for Apple Fries?
Sweet chili sauce and honey work wonderfully, but you can also try vanilla yogurt, caramel sauce, or even a cinnamon-spiced cream cheese dip for variety and extra flavor.
