The first time I made Apple Fries, it was an experiment that turned into a delightful family tradition. I remember my kids coming home from school, their faces lighting up at the smell of something sweet and crispy wafting through the kitchen. The idea came to me one day when I was looking for a fun way to enjoy those tart, crisp Granny Smith Apples that were piling up in the fruit bowl. After a bit of tinkering, I discovered that slicing them into thin wedges and frying them until golden was the way to go. These Apple Fries quickly became a hit, often served with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that feels like a special occasion every time. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a gathering with friends, these crispy delights bring a smile to every face.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
10 mins
5 mins
Medium
150 kcal
1g g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
3g g
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Skillet, Peeler
The Beauty of This Apple Fries
They’re a Healthier Dessert Option
What I love most about Apple Fries is that they offer that sweet satisfaction without loading up on guilt. Unlike traditional fried snacks, these are made with fresh apples, giving you a burst of vitamins and fiber. The sweetness comes from the sugar and cinnamon, but at the core, you’re enjoying a fruit that’s packed with nutrients.
Quick and Simple to Prepare
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a recipe that comes together so quickly. In just a few steps, you can whip up these Apple Fries and have them ready for your family or guests. The prep is minimal; you only need to slice your apples and dip them in a simple cornstarch coating before they hit the hot oil. It’s the perfect weeknight treat or party snack!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a festive fall gathering, or a cozy movie night at home, Apple Fries fit right in. They’re easy to share and can be served as a side dish or a dessert. Who wouldn’t enjoy the cozy feeling of fried apples with a side of caramel? I love serving them warm, straight out of the skillet, where the crispy outside meets the tender inside.
A Fun Way to Get Kids Involved
Cooking together can be such a bonding experience, and making Apple Fries is a project that’s fun for kids. They can help wash the apples, slice them (with supervision, of course), and even roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix. It’s a great way to teach them kitchen skills while creating delicious memories.
Versatile and Delicious
One of the best things about Apple Fries is how adaptable they are. You can play around with the spices or even add a dash of nutmeg if you want to change things up. Plus, they pair beautifully with different dips; caramel sauce is a classic, but you could also serve them with a side of whipped cream or even yogurt for a healthier twist.
They Make Your Kitchen Smell Amazing
Let’s be honest: frying any food fills the house with a mouthwatering aroma. But when it’s sweet apple and cinnamon wafting through the air, it’s hard not to get excited. The smell of these Apple Fries cooking is pure comfort and warmth, making you feel right at home.
Essential Ingredients for Apple Fries
The magic of Apple Fries lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a dish that is both crispy and sweet. The key players here are the fresh Granny Smith Apples, which bring the perfect tartness, and the cinnamon and sugar that create a delicious coating. Together, they create a perfect balance, making each bite an experience you won’t forget.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crispy exterior, any high-heat oil will do the trick. It helps to fry the apple slices until they’re golden and delicious.
- 3 Granny Smith Apples: The star of the show! Their tartness is what makes these fries so special. Make sure to peel and slice them into sticks for the best frying experience.
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient that helps the batter stick to the apples and adds to the crunch factor.
- 1 cup Sugar: Used to sweeten the apple fries, giving them that delightful sugary exterior.
- 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon: The warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples, adding depth to the flavor.
- Caramel sauce for dipping (optional): This is an optional but highly recommended addition. It makes for a sweet dip that elevates the experience.
Step by Step Guide for Apple Fries
Making Apple Fries is truly a delightful process. You’ll find it easy and rewarding, especially when you see how quickly they come together! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.
- Start by heating oil in a medium-sized skillet. Pour in enough to cover about 1 inch of the bottom of the pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, which indicates that it’s hot enough for frying. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent overheating.
- While the oil is heating, slice your apples into thin wedges, about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness is ideal for getting that perfect fry. Place them in a bowl and set them aside for a moment.
- Next, take the cornstarch and sprinkle it over the sliced apples. Toss them gently until they are well coated. This step is crucial for achieving a nice crispy texture when frying.
- Once the oil reaches the right temperature, carefully add the coated apple slices to the skillet. Be cautious, as the oil can splatter. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until you see them starting to soften and turn golden brown. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried apples from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. While the apples are still warm, roll them in this mixture to coat evenly. This is where they get their sweet, aromatic flavor!
- Finally, plate your Apple Fries and serve them warm. Don’t forget to include a side of caramel sauce for dipping; it’s an irresistible combination!
Things Worth Knowing
- Look for the Right Oil: Use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable or canola oil, to achieve the best frying results.
- Monitor the Temperature: Keeping the oil at a consistent temperature is key. If it’s too cool, the fries will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Try Different Apples: While Granny Smiths are excellent, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the sugar mix, like nutmeg or even a pinch of sea salt for a flavor twist.
Expert Tips about Apple Fries
When it comes to making the best Apple Fries, a few expert tips can elevate your dish even further. Here are some of my favorites to ensure your fries turn out perfectly every time.
- Storage: Make sure to eat your Apple Fries fresh! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can lose their crispness quickly, but reheating them in the oven can help restore some of that crunch.
- Freezing: You can freeze the raw, coated apples before frying. Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for up to three months.
- Pairing: These Apple Fries are perfect with drinks like apple cider or sweet iced tea. You can also make a fun dessert platter with ice cream on the side!
- Serving Size: Depending on the occasion, you can adjust the serving size. These fries are fantastic as a snack or dessert, but you could easily double the recipe for gatherings.
- Keep the Oil Clean: If you notice any solids in the oil after frying, make sure to strain it before using it again to keep your fries tasting fresh.
What to Serve Alongside Apple Fries
When it comes to enjoying your delicious Apple Fries, there are many fantastic options to serve alongside them. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Ice Cream: A classic vanilla or caramel ice cream is a perfect pairing. The creamy texture complements the warm, crispy apples.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the Apple Fries.
- Cheese Plate: Consider serving a platter of assorted cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, that can contrast nicely with the sweet apples.
- Hot Beverages: Pair these Apple Fries with warm drinks like apple cider or spiced tea, making for a cozy experience.
- Holiday Dishes: These fries are an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving or fall gatherings, complementing roasted meats and pies.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a fun twist, serve them with a warm chocolate sauce for dipping, making it a decadent treat!
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Apple Fries lies in their comforting sweetness and satisfying crunch. They are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to try making them for your next gathering or even just as a special treat for yourself. With a warm caramel dip on the side, I can guarantee these fries will steal the show. So grab some apples and get frying – you won’t regret it!
Apple Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating oil in a medium-sized skillet. Pour in enough to cover about 1 inch of the bottom of the pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, which indicates that it’s hot enough for frying. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent overheating.
- While the oil is heating, slice your apples into thin wedges, about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness is ideal for getting that perfect fry. Place them in a bowl and set them aside for a moment.
- Next, take the cornstarch and sprinkle it over the sliced apples. Toss them gently until they are well coated. This step is crucial for achieving a nice crispy texture when frying.
- Once the oil reaches the right temperature, carefully add the coated apple slices to the skillet. Be cautious, as the oil can splatter. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until you see them starting to soften and turn golden brown. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried apples from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. While the apples are still warm, roll them in this mixture to coat evenly. This is where they get their sweet, aromatic flavor!
- Finally, plate your Apple Fries and serve them warm. Don’t forget to include a side of caramel sauce for dipping; it’s an irresistible combination!
