(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples, peeled and sliced into fry-like wedges
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Milk
Panko breadcrumbs
Ground cinnamon
Granulated sugar
Cooking spray
Directions
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar together.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each apple slice into flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the coated apple slices in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Lightly spray the tops of the apple fries with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Immediately toss or dust the hot apple fries with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Serve warm with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or yogurt for dipping.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 3–4 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Use crushed graham crackers instead of panko for a dessert-like coating.
Add nutmeg or apple pie spice to the cinnamon-sugar mix.
Try different apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith for a change in flavor and texture.
Coat with coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
Swap eggs for plant-based milk and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a vegan/gluten-free version.
Add a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving for a classic dessert look.
Serve with ice cream for a decadent treat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover apple fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.
FAQs
What are the best apples for air fryer apple fries?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith work best because they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the peel on adds extra fiber and color, but peeling them results in a softer bite and smoother texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They are best served fresh, but you can prep the apple slices and breading stations ahead. Store the coated slices in the fridge until ready to air fry.
What dipping sauces go well with apple fries?
Caramel sauce, vanilla yogurt, cream cheese dip, or chocolate sauce all pair wonderfully with apple fries.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway. They may not get quite as crispy, but they’ll still taste great.
Are air fryer apple fries healthy?
They are a healthier alternative to traditional fried desserts since they use less oil and real fruit. You can also adjust the sugar to your liking.
How do I keep the coating from falling off?
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the apple slices and avoid over-handling them once coated. Also, preheating the air fryer helps them set quickly.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, gluten-free panko or other breadcrumb alternatives work well. Just ensure they’re crisp-style for best results.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cereal, or even graham cracker crumbs for a different texture and flavor.
Can I freeze air fryer apple fries?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the apples will change and become mushy once thawed.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Apple Fries are a simple, sweet, and crispy treat you’ll want to make again and again. With a golden coating and warm cinnamon flavor, they’re a delicious alternative to traditional desserts and perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare and fun to eat, these apple fries are sure to become a new favorite.
Air Fryer Apple Fries are a healthier, crispy twist on traditional fried desserts. Coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust and cooked until golden, these apple slices are crunchy on the outside and tender inside—perfect for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
2 large apples, peeled and sliced into fry-like wedges
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
2 tbsp milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp granulated sugar
Cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar. Set aside.
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each apple slice into flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Arrange coated apple slices in a single layer in the basket without overlapping. Spray the tops with cooking spray.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Immediately toss or dust hot apple fries with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Serve warm with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or yogurt for dipping.
Notes
Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best texture.Crushed graham crackers can be used instead of panko for a sweeter coating.Serve immediately for best crispiness.Add apple pie spice for extra warmth and flavor.
