Apple Fries

Featured in appetizers-snacks.

Hey friend, look at these gorgeous golden apple fries! Can you believe these crispy, caramelized beauties are made from just apples and a touch of cinnamon sugar? The way they glisten on that plate is absolutely mouth-watering. These aren't your ordinary apple slices - they're transformed into something magical in the air fryer. The edges get perfectly caramelized while staying tender inside, and that cinnamon sugar coating creates the most amazing sparkle. You're going to love how your kitchen smells while these are cooking, and the best part? They're so much healthier than regular fries but taste like pure indulgence. Trust me, once you make these, they'll become your go-to guilt-free treat!

Tswira dial profile dial zaho awlaydi..
Updated on Sat, 26 Jul 2025 08:58:19 GMT
Golden crispy apple fries dusted with cinnamon sugar arranged on white plate pin it
Golden crispy apple fries dusted with cinnamon sugar arranged on white plate | lonerecipes.com

I first stumbled upon the concept of apple fries when I was desperately trying to find healthier alternatives to my family's snack routine. The idea seemed almost too simple - could sliced apples really transform into something fry-like? But the magic happens in that air fryer. As the hot air circulates around each apple stick, the natural sugars caramelize and create these gorgeous golden edges while the cinnamon sugar coating turns into a delicate, sparkly crust. The texture is what really gets me - crispy on the outside but still maintaining that perfect apple bite inside. It's like having the best parts of apple pie without all the butter and pastry. Every time I make them, I'm amazed at how something so simple can taste so special. The whole process takes less than 25 minutes from start to finish, but the results look and taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely love about this recipe is how it tricks your brain into thinking you're having something indulgent when you're actually eating pure nutrition. There's something so satisfying about that crispy exterior giving way to the tender, warm apple inside - it hits all the right texture notes that make great comfort food. The cinnamon sugar coating provides just enough sweetness without being overwhelming, and the natural apple flavors really shine through. I love that my kids ask for these instead of processed snacks, and I feel great saying yes every single time. The recipe is foolproof too - I've never had a batch turn out anything less than perfect. Plus, the cleanup is minimal since everything happens in the air fryer. It's become my go-to recipe when I want to feel like I'm treating myself while still staying on track with healthy eating goals.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • Honeycrisp apples: Wash, core and cut into french fry sticks
  • Granulated sugar: Mix with spices for coating
  • Ground cinnamon: Combine with sugar for flavor
  • Vanilla extract: Add to coating mixture for depth
  • Salt: Pinch to enhance sweetness

Let's Make These Together

Prep the apples
Start by washing your apples thoroughly and removing the cores. Cut them into uniform sticks about 1/2 inch thick - this ensures even cooking. Pat them completely dry with paper towels because any excess moisture will prevent the coating from sticking properly.
Create the magic coating
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and that tiny pinch of salt. This combination creates the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth that makes these apple fries so irresistible.
Coat and toss
Add your apple sticks to the bowl and toss them thoroughly, making sure every piece gets completely coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Take your time here - good coverage means better flavor in every bite.
Air fry to perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and arrange the coated apple sticks in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through. You'll know they're ready when the edges are golden brown and caramelized.
Recipe picture pin it
Healthy baked apple fries with golden brown finish on wooden kitchen counter | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I was craving something sweet but didn't want to derail my healthy eating goals. I had a bag of apples sitting on my counter and my new air fryer begging to be used. The transformation was incredible - what started as simple apple slices became these gorgeous, caramelized fries that looked like they came from a fancy restaurant. My kids thought I was serving them actual french fries until they took a bite and their faces lit up with surprise and delight. Now it's become our weekend tradition to make these together, and honestly, I think I enjoy them more than they do. The kitchen fills with the most amazing cinnamon-apple aroma that makes the whole house feel cozy.

Perfect Pairings

These apple fries pair beautifully with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with honey for extra protein, or try them alongside a warm mug of spiced chai tea. For a more indulgent treat, serve them with a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping, though they're perfectly sweet on their own. They also make an excellent accompaniment to vanilla ice cream for a healthier take on apple pie à la mode.

Air fryer apple sticks with caramelized edges and sparkling cinnamon coating pin it
Air fryer apple sticks with caramelized edges and sparkling cinnamon coating | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Gala apples work best because they hold their shape well and have great flavor. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious as they may become mushy.

→ How do I store leftover apple fries?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. To restore crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.

→ Can I make these without an air fryer?

Yes! You can bake them in a regular oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won't be quite as crispy but still delicious.

→ Are these apple fries healthy?

Absolutely! They're made with just apples and a small amount of natural seasonings. They're fat-free, high in fiber, and contain natural vitamins and antioxidants from the apples.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

These are best served immediately for maximum crispiness. However, you can prep the apple sticks and coating separately up to 4 hours ahead, then combine and cook when ready to serve.

Conclusion

These crispy apple fries prove that healthy snacks don't have to be boring. With their golden exterior and tender interior, they satisfy both sweet cravings and nutritional needs. The air fryer creates that perfect caramelized finish without any oil, making this treat as wholesome as it is delicious. Whether you're looking for an afternoon snack or a guilt-free dessert, these apple fries deliver on both taste and health benefits.

Apple Fries

Golden crispy apple sticks coated in cinnamon sugar, air-fried to perfection for a healthier sweet snack.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
12 Minutes
Total Time
22 Minutes
By: chris

Category: appetizers-snacks

Difficulty: easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

013 large Honeycrisp apples
022 tablespoons granulated sugar
031 teaspoon ground cinnamon
041/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
05Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 01

Wash and core the apples, then cut them into french fry-shaped sticks about 1/2 inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well to create the coating mixture.

Step 03

Add the apple sticks to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 04

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 05

Place apple fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 06

Remove from air fryer and serve immediately while warm and crispy. Enjoy as a healthy snack or dessert.

Notes

  1. Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best results
  2. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket - cook in batches if necessary
  3. Pat apples dry before coating to help the cinnamon sugar stick better
  4. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness
  5. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in air fryer

Tools You'll Need

  • Air fryer
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Tree nuts (if served with almond butter)
  • Dairy (if served with yogurt dip)
  • Gluten (naturally gluten-free)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 85
  • Total Fat: 0 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 22 g
  • Protein: 0 g

Spice Up Your Inbox!

Join our gourmet community and get sizzling recipes, cooking tips, and exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox.

We respect your privacy. No spam, just deliciousness.

×

Success!

You've successfully subscribed to our newsletter!