The kitchen smells like Sunday — warm cinnamon and apples, the kind of comfort that tucks you in. These air fryer apple fries are quick, sweet, and a little bit like hugging your grandma with a napkin in hand. If you’re the sort who likes simple treats, they pair beautifully with an easy cookie for after-school smiles: easy 3-ingredient air fryer cookies.
Why make this recipe
Sometimes you want dessert without the fuss — something crisp, warm, and full of apple goodness. These apple fries are lighter than deep-fried treats, quick to pull together, and perfect for sharing with kids, neighbors, or folks who need a little comfort. They’re the kind of thing that turns an ordinary afternoon into a memory.
How to make Air Fryer Apple Fries
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work great)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Nonstick cooking spray
Directions:
- Prep apples: Peel (optional) and cut apples into fry-like sticks. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Set up coating stations:
- Bowl 1: Add flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk egg and milk together.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Coat apples: Dredge each apple stick in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Air fry: Lightly spray coated apple fries with nonstick spray. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Cook: Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 7–9 minutes, shaking basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with caramel dip, yogurt, or whipped cream.
How to serve Air Fryer Apple Fries
Serve them right out of the air fryer while they’re still warm and whispering cinnamon. A little jar of caramel sauce makes everyone smile, but plain yogurt with a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of whipped cream is equally soulful. Stack a few on a small plate, hand one to a child, and watch the day get sweeter.
How to store Air Fryer Apple Fries
If you have leftovers (they’re often gone before bedtime), let them cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-crisp in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes before serving. They’ll never be quite as perfect as fresh, but they’ll still carry that cozy flavor.
Tips to make Air Fryer Apple Fries
- Dry the apple sticks well — less moisture makes for a crisper crust.
- Spray lightly but evenly with nonstick spray so the panko turns golden without getting soggy.
- Use firm apples like Honeycrisp for a nice bite; Granny Smith gives a tangy contrast.
- For a little extra crunch, press the panko gently onto the apple sticks so it adheres better.
- If you want a small cake alongside, try this simple 3-ingredient apple cake for a true Southern spread.
Variations (if any)
- Cinnamon-Sugar Finish: Toss the finished fries in a bit more cinnamon sugar for extra sparkle.
- Nuts: Mix finely chopped pecans into the panko for a nutty crunch that feels right at home in the South.
- Glazed: Drizzle warmed caramel or a light vanilla glaze over the fries for a touch of decadence.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
A: Yes, but panko gives a lighter, flakier crunch. Regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch but may be denser.
Q: Do I have to peel the apples?
A: No — leaving the peel on adds texture and color. Peel them if you want a more tender bite or a smoother look.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: You can prep the coated apple fries ahead and refrigerate for up to a few hours, then air fry right before serving. For best crispness, cook just before guests arrive.
Q: Are these suitable for kids?
A: Absolutely. They’re a sweet, approachable snack — just watch the temperature so they don’t burn little tongues.
Q: Can I bake them in the oven instead?
A: Yes — bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping once, until golden.
Conclusion
If you’d like more inspiration or another spin on this cozy treat, take a peek at this version from Air Fryer Apple Fries – The Country Cook or try a glazed approach with the lovely recipe at Air Fryer Apple Fries with Vanilla Glaze | Tastes of Lizzy T. Pull up a chair, set out a little plate, and let the simple sweetness of shared food warm your kitchen and your heart. Come back anytime — I’ll have the kettle on and a slice of something comforting waiting.
Air Fryer Apple Fries
Ingredients
Method
- Peel (optional) and cut apples into fry-like sticks. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Set up coating stations: In bowl 1, add flour; in bowl 2, whisk egg and milk together; in bowl 3, mix panko breadcrumbs, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Dredge each apple stick in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Lightly spray coated apple fries with nonstick spray. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if needed.
- Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with caramel dip, yogurt, or whipped cream.