Apple Fries Recipe: A Sweet and Crispy Treat

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Who doesn’t love a crispy, sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds—fruit and dessert? If you’re searching for a unique twist on your favorite apples, apple fries are here to satisfy your cravings. They are incredibly easy to make, perfectly crunchy, and lightly coated with a delicious cinnamon-sugar blend. Not to mention, these apple fries make for an ideal snack, dessert, or even a party treat!

What Are Apple Fries?

Apple fries are a delightful twist on traditional French fries, made by coating apple slices in a light batter and frying them until golden and crispy. They are then dusted with cinnamon sugar, giving them a sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a caramel dipping sauce. These fries offer a fun way to enjoy apples, combining the crisp texture of a fry with the natural sweetness of the fruit.

Why You Should Try It

There are plenty of reasons to try making apple fries at home. Not only are they a unique and delicious treat, but they are also versatile. You can serve them as a dessert, snack, or even as a fun side dish at a party. Plus, they’re a great way to use up apples if you find yourself with an abundance of this fruit.

Moreover, apple fries are an excellent way to get picky eaters to enjoy more fruit. The crispy exterior and sweet coating make them irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a new treat to add to your recipe collection or simply want to try something different, apple fries are a great option.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these delightful apple fries, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s everything you need:

Apple Fries:

4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup sparkling water or club soda
Vegetable oil, for frying

Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Caramel Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Best Apples for Apple Fries

When it comes to making the best apple fries, the type of apple you choose matters. Granny Smith apples are highly recommended for their tart flavor, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar coating. Honeycrisp apples are also a great choice if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Both types of apples hold up well during frying, maintaining their shape and offering a satisfying crunch.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Fries

Start by peeling your apples and cutting them into thin, fry-like sticks. To keep them from turning brown, place the apple slices in a bowl of cold water.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the sparkling water or club soda, whisking continuously until the batter is smooth and thick enough to coat the apples well. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding more flour or water.

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. The oil is ready when it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Drain the apple slices and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the batter sticks well. Dip each apple slice into the batter, letting any excess drip off.

Carefully place the battered apple slices into the hot oil, frying in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the apple fries and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 2: Coat the Apple Fries

While the apple fries are still warm, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Toss the fried apple slices in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are evenly coated. The warmth of the fries helps the sugar stick better, giving them that sweet, crispy exterior.

Step 3: Serve

Serve your delicious apple fries warm with a side of caramel dipping sauce. The combination of the crispy exterior, the sweet-tart apple flavor, and the rich caramel sauce is simply irresistible.

How to Make the Perfect Caramel Dipping Sauce

A rich and gooey caramel sauce can take your apple fries to the next level. You can easily make your own at home with just a few ingredients. Start by melting 1/2 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a beautiful amber color. Then, stir in 1/4 cup of butter until it’s fully melted. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and cook for another minute or so, stirring constantly. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. This homemade caramel sauce is perfect for dipping and adds a luxurious touch to your apple fries.

Notes and Tips

Apple Choice: Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar, while Honeycrisp apples offer a sweeter base. Pick the one that suits your taste!

Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil stays around 350°F (175°C). Too hot, and your fries will burn; too cool, and they’ll be soggy and absorb too much oil.
Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to cling to the apple slices. If it’s too runny, add a little more flour.
Frying in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan; it lowers the oil temperature and makes the fries greasy rather than crispy.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While apple fries are a delicious treat, it’s always good to know what you’re consuming, especially if you’re mindful of your diet.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving):

Calories: 250
Carbohydrates: 45g

Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g

Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150mg
Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 25g
Vitamin A: 2%
Calcium: 2%

Iron: 4%

These apple fries offer a fun way to enjoy apples, which are a great source of fiber and Vitamin C. They’re not only tasty but also have some nutritional benefits if enjoyed in moderation.

FAQs About Apple Fries

Can I bake the apple fries instead of frying them?

Absolutely! To make them a bit healthier, you can bake the apple fries in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. This method reduces the oil content while still giving you a crispy result.

What’s the best way to store leftover apple fries?

It’s best to enjoy apple fries fresh to maintain their crispiness. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to regain some of the crispiness.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples might make for a less balanced flavor compared to tart varieties like Granny Smith.

How can I make the caramel sauce at home?

Making caramel sauce is simple! Just melt 1/2 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown, then stir in 1/4 cup of butter until melted. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and cook for another minute or so. Let it cool slightly before serving with your fries.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Definitely! A 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute should work just fine. You might need to adjust the batter’s consistency slightly, so keep an eye on that.

Creative Variations of Apple Fries

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this classic recipe. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar for a more complex flavor. Or, for a savory twist, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the apple fries right after frying. You could even drizzle them with honey or melted chocolate instead of serving them with caramel dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Enjoy making and munching on these scrumptious apple fries! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a cozy at-home treat. So, grab those apples and get frying! With their irresistible combination of sweet and crispy, apple fries are a fun and delicious way to enjoy this beloved fruit in a whole new way.

More Relevant Recipes