Crispy Apple Fries with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Sauce
If you’re looking for a sweet and crispy dessert with a twist, look no further than apple fries! These apple sticks, coated in a light batter, fried to perfection, and rolled in cinnamon sugar, make for the ultimate indulgent treat. Pair them with a rich caramel dipping sauce, and you have a dessert that’s perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something special. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process on how to make delicious apple fries at home, plus some fun variations, tips, and frequently asked questions to ensure your apple fries come out perfectly every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Apple Fries:
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Caramel Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make Apple Fries
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling the apples and cutting them into thin, fry-like sticks. These slices should be about the size of traditional French fries. To prevent the apple slices from browning, place them in a bowl of cold water as you work. Once all the apples are sliced, drain the water and pat the apples dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the sparkling water or club soda while whisking until the batter is smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the apples evenly, but not too thick. If it seems too runny, add a little more flour; if it’s too thick, thin it out with a bit more sparkling water.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.
Step 4: Fry the Apple Slices
Dip each apple slice into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered apple slices into the hot oil, frying them in small batches. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the oil temperature to drop. Fry the apples for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the apple fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the apple fries are still warm, toss them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This will give them a delicious, sweet-spicy flavor that perfectly complements the apples’ natural tartness.
Step 6: Serve with Caramel Dipping Sauce
Serve the warm apple fries alongside a bowl of caramel dipping sauce. For an extra special treat, you can also drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top of the fries before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Fries
Choosing the Right Apples
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for making apple fries. Their firm texture holds up well to frying, and their tart flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon sugar coating. However, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady for different flavor profiles.
Achieving the Right Batter Consistency
The batter is key to getting that crispy outer layer. Make sure it’s thick enough to coat the apples, but not so thick that it overpowers them. Adjust the thickness by adding more flour or water as needed.
Preventing Browning
To prevent your apple slices from browning before frying, keep them in a bowl of cold water after slicing. Make sure to pat them dry before dipping them in the batter to ensure the coating sticks well.
Serving and Storing Apple Fries
Serving Tips
Apple fries are best served fresh and warm right after frying, while they’re still crispy. Pair them with caramel dipping sauce, whipped cream, or even vanilla ice cream for a dessert experience that’s hard to beat.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep in mind that the fries will lose some of their crispiness, but they can be reheated.
Reheating Instructions
To restore some of the apple fries’ crisp texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. If desired, toss them in a bit more cinnamon-sugar after reheating.
Recipe Variations
Air Fryer Apple Fries
For a healthier version, use an air fryer. Coat the apple slices with batter and air fry them at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Gluten-Free Apple Fries
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Spiced Apple Fries
Add a pinch of warm spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a spiced twist that’s perfect for the fall season.
Baked Apple Fries
If you prefer to bake instead of fry, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the battered apple fries for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Swap the caramel sauce for a rich chocolate dipping sauce or even Nutella. This adds a decadent touch that’s hard to resist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make apple fries ahead of time?
While apple fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the apple slices in advance. Store the sliced apples in cold water in the fridge to prevent browning, then fry them just before serving.
What are the best apples for making apple fries?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they have a firm texture and tart flavor that holds up well during frying. However, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples also work well if you prefer a sweeter fry.
Can I bake apple fries instead of frying them?
Yes! You can bake apple fries at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. This method gives you a healthier version of the dish without sacrificing too much flavor.
Can I use sparkling water instead of club soda in the batter?
Yes, both sparkling water and club soda will give the batter a light and airy texture, so feel free to use either.
What dipping sauces go well with apple fries?
Caramel is the classic choice, but chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or even a spiced yogurt dip can make excellent accompaniments.
How do I prevent the apples from turning brown?
Simply place the cut apple slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning before battering and frying.
Can I make apple fries gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
Why is my batter not sticking to the apples?
Be sure the apple slices are well-dried before dipping them in the batter. Excess moisture can prevent the batter from sticking properly.
How do I store leftover apple fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.
Enjoy this crispy, sweet treat as the perfect dessert or snack anytime of the year! Whether you’re making them for a cozy fall evening or as a fun snack for guests, apple fries are sure to be a hit.