Apple Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love making Apple Fries because they’re simple, comforting, and taste like a cross between churros and warm apple pie. The cinnamon sugar coating adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the apples stay tender and juicy. They’re perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to treat when I need something fast and delicious.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and cut into fry-sized strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
Vegetable oil, for frying
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Optional dipping sauce: caramel or vanilla yogurt

Directions

1. I heat the oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a plate with paper towels for draining.

2. In a mixing bowl, I whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Then, I gradually whisk in the milk until a smooth batter forms.

3. In another bowl, I mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon, setting it aside for coating later.

4. I pat the apple strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps the batter stick better.

5. I dip each apple strip into the batter, letting the extra drip off before frying.

6. I fry the apples in small batches for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until they’re golden and crisp.

7. I transfer them to the paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly.

8. While still warm, I toss the fries in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.

9. I serve them right away with caramel or vanilla yogurt for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes use apple pie spice instead of plain cinnamon for a deeper flavor.

• For a healthier twist, I air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• I love serving them with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or cream cheese dip for variety.

• For extra crunch, I double-dip the apples in the batter before frying.

• I occasionally sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Apple Fries are best enjoyed fresh, but I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. To reheat, I place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispness. I avoid microwaving since it makes them soggy. If I want to prepare them ahead, I slice the apples and keep them in lemon water to prevent browning until I’m ready to fry.

FAQs

What type of apples work best?

I prefer firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape and provide a nice tart balance to the sweetness.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, I bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely—almond, soy, or oat milk all work perfectly in this recipe.

How do I keep them crispy?

I fry them in small batches and avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain oil temperature and crispiness.

Can I make the batter ahead?

Yes, I mix the dry ingredients in advance and add milk just before frying for best results.

Can I use a different coating?

I sometimes use brown sugar or powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar for a different texture and flavor.

Are these gluten-free?

They can be—just swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

What’s the best oil for frying?

I use vegetable oil or canola oil because they have high smoke points and neutral flavor.

Can I freeze them?

I don’t recommend freezing since apples release moisture and lose their texture after thawing.

What dips pair best?

I love serving them with warm caramel sauce, vanilla yogurt, or melted chocolate for a decadent finish.

Conclusion

These Apple Fries are a quick and delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon. I love how easy they are to make and how they always bring smiles to the table. Whether I’m serving them as a snack, dessert, or fun party treat, they never last long—crispy, sweet, and simply irresistible.