A healthy twist on a nostalgic fairground treat, these crispy air fryer apple fries are my go-to when I want something sweet, satisfying, and easy to make. They’re tender on the inside, coated with a cinnamon-sugar crunch on the outside, and cooked to perfection without any deep frying. Whether I serve them as a quick snack or a fun dessert, they always disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe turns simple apples into something magical in just minutes. It’s light, made with minimal oil, and requires only a few pantry staples. The panko gives the fries a perfect crispy bite, while the cinnamon-sugar sprinkle brings in that cozy, sweet flavor I always crave in the fall—or anytime, really. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, vegetarian, and can be made gluten-free if needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji work best)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup sugar
Coconut oil spray (or any neutral spray oil)
Directions
I start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into fry-shaped sticks.
Then I set up my breading station with three shallow bowls:
Bowl1 has the all-purpose flour
Bowl2 holds the beaten eggs
Bowl3 mixes panko breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
I dredge each apple stick in flour, dip it into the egg, and coat it in the cinnamon-panko mixture.
I lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the apple fries in a single layer. Then I spray the tops with a bit more oil.
I air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
While they’re still warm, I mix the remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon with the sugar and sprinkle it over the fries.
I like to serve them right away with caramel sauce, vanilla yogurt, or whipped cream for dipping.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Each serving has approximately 165 kcal.
Variations
Gluten-free option: I use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko to make this recipe suitable for everyone.
Apple choice: While I prefer Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweetness and firmness, Granny Smith adds a tart contrast that’s equally delicious.
Spice it up: I’ve tried adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar for a deeper fall flavor.
Savory twist: For a fun variation, I skip the sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle them with sea salt and chili powder after air frying.
Dipping sauces: Besides caramel and whipped cream, I love dipping these in a maple Greek yogurt or chocolate sauce.
Storage/Reheating
These apple fries are best served fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispiness. I avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy.
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FAQs
How do I keep the apple fries from getting soggy?
I make sure to air fry in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the basket. Spraying the fries with oil also helps them get crisp.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I can prep the apple slices and breading station ahead, but I always cook them fresh for the best texture. Reheated fries won’t be quite as crispy.
What apples work best for this recipe?
I usually go for Honeycrisp or Fuji because they’re sweet and hold their shape well. Granny Smith works too if I want a bit more tartness.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, I can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely. I find these apple fries are a great alternative to sugary snacks, and kids love dipping them in caramel or yogurt.
Conclusion
These crispy air fryer apple fries are one of my favorite simple treats. They’re wholesome, packed with cozy flavor, and easy enough to whip up anytime I’m craving something sweet but not heavy. Whether I serve them as a fun dessert or a midday snack, they always hit the spot.
📖 Recipe:
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Crispy Air Fryer Apple Fries
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A healthy twist on a fairground classic, these crispy air fryer apple fries are coated in cinnamon-sugar and panko for a crunchy exterior with a tender apple center. Perfect as a quick snack or fun dessert, they’re light, easy, and kid-friendly.
Ingredients
2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided)
1/4 cup sugar
Coconut oil spray (or any neutral spray oil)
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into fry-shaped sticks.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- Dredge each apple stick in flour, then dip into the egg, and coat with the cinnamon-panko mixture.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the coated apple sticks in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Mix the remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon with sugar and sprinkle over the warm apple fries.
- Serve immediately with caramel sauce, vanilla yogurt, or whipped cream for dipping.
Notes
Use gluten-free flour and panko to make it gluten-free.
Granny Smith apples offer a tart flavor variation.
Try adding nutmeg or allspice for deeper fall flavor.
For a savory version, skip the sugar and cinnamon and use sea salt and chili powder.
Best served fresh; reheat leftovers in the air fryer for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
