Easy Crispy Cinnamon Apple Fries

Apple fries bring back memories of autumn afternoons in my kitchen, the smell of warm cinnamon filling every corner. I started making these when my youngest kept asking for “apple pie but faster,” and honestly, she was onto something brilliant.

The crispy coating gives way to tender apple inside, and that cinnamon sugar coating? Pure magic in every bite.

Why this Apple Fries recipe works no matter the season

These apple fries never fail to bring smiles around my table. The beauty lies in how the cornstarch creates this lovely golden crust that’s never greasy, just perfectly crisp.

I love how forgiving this recipe is – whether your oil runs a bit hot or your apple slices aren’t perfectly even, they still turn out wonderful.

The quick frying time means the apples stay tender and juicy inside while getting that satisfying crunch outside.

My easy crispy baked apple chips are lovely, but sometimes you want that warm, just-made comfort that only comes from the skillet.

What you will need to make this Apple Fries

• Neutral cooking oil – Canola or vegetable oil work best; use enough to reach ~1 inch deep in your pan
• 4 medium Granny Smith apples – Their tartness balances the sweet coating (Honeycrisp is a great milder option)
• ⅓ cup cornstarch – Essential for that crisp, golden exterior (don’t swap with flour)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – For the cinnamon-sugar coating
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Freshly ground gives the best flavor
• Homemade caramel sauce (optional) – Store-bought works too, but homemade really elevates it

How I Make This Apple Fries

1. Heat your oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F. You’ll know it’s ready when a small piece of apple sizzles immediately upon contact – about 8 minutes of heating.
2. Prepare the apples by washing and cutting them into ¼-inch thick sticks, leaving the skin on for extra texture. I find it easier to cut each apple into quarters first, then slice each quarter into thin wedges.
3. Set up your coating station by placing the cornstarch in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Coat and fry the apple pieces by dredging them in cornstarch, shaking off excess, then carefully sliding them into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd – work in batches of 8-10 pieces.
5. Fry for 90 seconds to 2 minutes until the coating turns golden brown and you hear the sizzling soften slightly. The apples should feel tender when gently poked with a fork.
6. Remove and drain using a slotted spoon, placing the apple fries on a paper towel-lined plate for just 30 seconds – you want them still warm for the next step.
7. Roll in cinnamon sugar while they’re still hot so the coating sticks perfectly. Toss gently but thoroughly until each piece is well-coated.
8. Serve immediately with warm caramel sauce alongside for dipping.

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My kitchen secrets for getting this Apple Fries just right

The key to perfect apple fries is getting your oil temperature steady before you start. I’ve learned that rushing this step leads to soggy results, and nobody wants that.

Don’t skip the cornstarch coating – it’s what gives you that satisfying crunch. When you dredge the apples, make sure each piece gets fully covered but shake off any clumps before frying.

Work quickly when rolling the hot apple fries in cinnamon sugar. The residual heat helps the coating stick beautifully, but if they cool down too much, it won’t adhere as well.

Can I make apple fries ahead of time?

Fresh apple fries are always best, but you can prep components earlier in the day. Cut your apples and store them in lemon water to prevent browning, then drain and pat dry before coating.

The fried apple fries can be reheated in a 375°F oven for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again, though they’ll never be quite as perfect as when first made.

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What’s the best apple variety for frying?

While I love Granny Smith for their tartness, Honeycrisp and Gala apples work beautifully too. The key is choosing apples that hold their shape when heated – avoid Red Delicious as they tend to get mushy.

How do I store leftover apple fries?

Store cooled apple fries in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, turning once, to restore some crispiness.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can bake coated apple slices at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t have quite the same crispy texture as the fried version, but they’re still tasty with less oil.

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Perfect moments for this Apple Fries

These apple fries shine during cozy weekend afternoons when the house feels quiet and you want something warm and comforting.

I make them when friends drop by unexpectedly – they come together so quickly and always impress.

Fall evenings call for these with hot cider and good conversation. They’re also wonderful tucked into lunch boxes as a special treat, though they’re best enjoyed warm from the pan when possible.