Apple Fries are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the sweet and tart flavor of apples with a crispy coating. These apple fries are lightly spiced with cinnamon and served with a creamy caramel dipping sauce, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults. They’re perfect as a snack, dessert, or a unique side dish at a party.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Caramel Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges, about 1/2-inch thick. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the milk, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—it should sizzle and float to the surface.
Step 4: Coat and Fry the Apples
Dip each apple wedge into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated, and then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry the apple wedges in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried apple wedges with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Toss with Cinnamon Sugar (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Toss the fried apple wedges in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Dipping Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat the caramel sauce and heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Apple Fries warm with the caramel dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Cook Notes
- Apples: Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness that balances well with the sweetness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are also excellent choices.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to getting crispy apple fries. Use a thermometer if possible, and adjust the heat as needed.
- Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the apples but not too thick. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Variations
1. Spiced Apple Fries
Add 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg or 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves to the batter for a spiced version of these apple fries.
2. Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Serve the apple fries with a chocolate dipping sauce by melting 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons heavy cream for a rich and decadent treat.
3. Baked Apple Fries
For a lighter version, bake the apple wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- Dessert: Serve the apple fries as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Party Snack: Arrange the apple fries on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like caramel, chocolate, and peanut butter for a fun party snack.
- Breakfast Treat: Enjoy the apple fries with a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Apple Fries Ahead of Time?
Apple fries are best enjoyed fresh while they are still warm and crispy. However, you can prepare the apples and batter ahead of time and fry them just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I Use a Different Type of Apple?
Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer. Granny Smith apples are popular for their tartness, but sweeter apples like Gala or Honeycrisp also work well.
Apple Fries are a delicious twist on the classic caramel apple, featuring crispy apple wedges with a sweet cinnamon coating and a rich caramel dipping sauce. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family treat, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these apple fries are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
