Crisp Air Fryer Apple Fries

These air fryer apple fries bring a sweet and crispy treat to your table without the guilt of deep frying. They are perfect for cozy evenings or as a fun family dessert, pairing crisp apple wedges with a luscious caramel dip. The recipe balances simple pantry ingredients with an easy technique that delivers a satisfyingly crunchy snack in under 30 minutes.

My kids discovered these during a chilly fall weekend, and now they ask for apple fries whenever we crave something sweet and crunchy. They love dipping each crispy wedge into warm caramel sauce, making it a new family favorite.

Ingredients

• Three large Gala apples: sweet and firm apples work best to hold their shape and texture
• One cup of all-purpose flour: helps the coating stick and crisps up the exterior
• Three large eggs beaten: acts as a binder to hold the crumb coating on the apples
• One cup graham cracker crumbs: provide a deliciously sweet and slightly crunchy crust
• Quarter cup sugar: adds extra sweetness that caramelizes during cooking
• One container of caramel sauce: rich and smooth dip to complement the tartness of the apples

Ingredients

Use fresh apples that feel heavy for their size and avoid overly bruised spots for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit or 193 degrees Celsius. Preheating is important to ensure the apple wedges crisp up nicely right from the start.

Prepare Your Apples:

Peel and core each apple, then slice them into eight wedges. Try to keep the wedges uniform in size so they cook evenly.

Set Up Coating Stations:

Place flour in a medium bowl for the first coating. Beat the eggs in a shallow dish so they are easy to dip. Mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar in another shallow dish to form the final coating.

Coat the Apple Wedges:

Roll each apple wedge first in the flour, coating it lightly but completely. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, then press it into the graham cracker and sugar mixture until fully coated.

Arrange in the Air Fryer:

Lightly oil the bottom of your air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Place the coated apples in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Lightly spray the wedges with oil for an extra crispy finish.

Cook the Apple Fries:

Air fry the wedges at 380 degrees for five minutes, then carefully flip each one to cook for an additional two minutes. This turning helps both sides get golden and crunchy.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

While the apples are cooking, pour the caramel sauce into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it gently until warm. This enhances the sauce's flavor and makes it easier to dip.

Serve:

Present the crispy apple fries on a plate alongside the warm caramel sauce and enjoy immediately for the best texture and taste.

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The graham cracker crumb coating is my favorite part because it adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. I remember the first time making this for a family gathering when everyone kept reaching for more. It’s one of those recipes that brings smiles every time.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store apple fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To crisp them back up, reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees for a few minutes rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Gala apples for Honeycrisp or Fuji if you prefer a different sweetness level or crunch. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your graham crackers are gluten-free as well.

Serving Suggestions

Try serving apple fries with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for extra warming spice. Vanilla ice cream makes an excellent companion alongside the caramel for a delightful indulgence.

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Cultural Context

Apple fries are a modern twist on traditional apple desserts popular in many American households during fall. The air fryer makes this classic treat healthier and easier to prepare, appealing to those looking to enjoy comfort food without the extra oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of apples work best for crisping?

Firm varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and provide a balance of sweetness when cooked.

→ How do I achieve a crispy coating on the apple wedges?

Dredging the apple slices first in flour, then egg, followed by a graham cracker and sugar mixture helps create a crunchy exterior when air fried.

→ Can I prepare the apple wedges ahead of time?

Yes, coating the apple pieces in flour, egg, and crumbs can be done beforehand and refrigerated briefly before cooking to maintain crispness.

→ What temperature should the air fryer be set to for optimal results?

Set the air fryer to around 380°F (193°C) for 7 minutes total, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.

→ How can the caramel dip be warmed safely?

Heat the caramel sauce gently in a microwave-safe bowl for about 20-30 seconds or until just warm to maintain smoothness.