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Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries are a delightful and playful twist on traditional apple desserts. These crispy, warm, and spiced apple fries are irresistibly sweet and perfect for snacking or serving as a fun dessert. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a cozy treat, these flavorful bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Easy and Quick: Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries come together in under 30 minutes, making them a hassle-free option for any occasion.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a delicious dessert, a fun snack, or even as a unique breakfast option topped with yogurt.
Customizable Flavors: This recipe allows you to adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your taste, ensuring every bite is just right.

Making Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries at Home

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries are not just a dessert; they are a nostalgic reminder of autumn outings and cozy family gatherings. The fragrant aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen brings warmth and a smile. With their sweet, caramelized exterior and tender, juicy apple inside, these fries are an easy and fun way to enjoy the natural goodness of apples. They combine simplicity with the rich flavor of fall spices, making them irresistible for any apple lover.

Ingredients

To whip up these delicious apple fries, you will need the following ingredients:

4 medium Apples: Firm, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala work best for maintaining structure during baking.
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Melted to provide richness and help the coating adhere. You can substitute with Coconut Oil or Vegetable Oil for a vegan option.
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to a slightly caramelized exterior. Feel free to adjust based on the sweetness of your apples and personal preference.
1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: The star of the dish, bringing in warmth and a classic apple-pairing flavor.
1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Optional): For an additional layer of warm spice complexity.
Pinch of Salt: Enhances the overall flavors and balances the sweetness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. If you’re using an air fryer, you typically don’t need to preheat fully, so check your model’s instructions (usually air fry at 380°F/190°C).
Wash and Core Apples: Thoroughly wash the apples. Stand each apple upright and carefully cut around the core, creating four large pieces. Alternatively, use an apple corer/slicer for uniform wedges.
Cut into Fries: Lay the apple pieces flat-side down and cut them into fry shapes, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Ensure uniform thickness for even baking; thicker fries will be softer and thinner will be crispy.
Pat Apples Dry: Gently pat the cut apple fries dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture allows the butter and cinnamon sugar mixture to adhere better, leading to a superior texture.
Combine Sugar and Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Coat the Apples: Place the apple fries in a large bowl, then drizzle the melted butter (or oil) over them. Toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
Add Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered apple fries and toss again gently to coat all the fries evenly.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated apple fries out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave some space between each fry to avoid steaming and promote crispiness. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-25 minutes depending on the thickness of your fries and your oven’s calibration. Check around the 15-minute mark.
Check for Doneness: The apple fries are ready when tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are golden brown and caramelized. Be cautious not to overbake to avoid mushiness.
(Optional) Air Fryer Method: If using an air fryer, place the coated apple fries in the basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the apple fries cool for a few minutes. They will firm up slightly as they cool. Serve warm.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

To keep your leftover Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Temperature: Always store at room temperature for short-term (2 hours max) and in the refrigerator or freezer for long-term storage.

Serving Ideas for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

Dip Options: Pair them with caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or yogurt to elevate your snacking experience.
Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream atop the apple fries creates a decadent dessert.
Dust with Extra Spices: For an added kick, sprinkle additional cinnamon or powdered sugar on top before serving.
Garnish: Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream can add an elegant touch.

Tips to Make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

Choose The Right Apples: Opt for firmer varieties to get that ideal fry texture. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith are great choices.
Even Coating Is Key: Make sure to coat each fry evenly for the best flavor and texture.
Air Fry for Extra Crispiness: If you desire an even crispier result, consider using the air fryer method instead.

Variations

Different Spice Mix: Experiment with other spices such as ginger or cardamom to create a different flavor profile.
Add Toppings: Consider topping your apple fries with nuts, drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of coconut for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these with a different type of sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or brown sugar for a different sweetness and flavor.

Q: Are there any vegan options for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap out the butter for coconut oil or vegetable oil, and the recipe becomes vegan-friendly.

Q: How do I keep them crispy if I have leftovers?
A: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave, which can add moisture.

With their delightful blend of warm spices, crispy texture, and sweet flavor, Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries are a charming way to celebrate apples in a fun and accessible format. Whether you enjoy them on a chilly evening with a warm drink or share them at a gathering, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone. Get ready to indulge in this simple yet delightful treat!