Well, let me share with you our family’s go-to comfort snack that even the kids can’t resist—Apple Fries. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those spontaneous kitchen experiments when the pantry was running low on chips, but we had an abundance of apples. Little did I know that a few slices, a bit of sugar, and cinnamon could turn an apple into a homemade delight that rivals any store-bought treat.
Whenever the weather turns chilly and the leaves start changing color, making apple fries becomes almost a ritual in our house. I love how the warm, spiced aroma fills every corner of the room, inviting everyone in the house to gather in the kitchen. It’s comforting smells like these that create memories, ones that I hope the kids will fondly look back on.
What makes apple fries so special is how simple they are to make. I use Granny Smith apples for their crunch and tartness, which marry beautifully with any sweet dips. Speaking of dipping sauces, we go a bit crazy. We make whipped cream from scratch—it only takes a minute! And let’s not forget the store-bought caramel and chocolate sauce, which perfectly complement these crispy bites. Every bite is a delightful mix of different textures and flavors, leaving you yearning for just one more.
As much as we adore these apple fries during the fall, their simplicity makes them an evergreen, ‘anytime’ snack. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or we’re hosting friends for a backyard get-together, you’ll always find a bowl of these warm, sugary delights waiting to be devoured. But hold on; before we dig in, let’s walk you through how you can create these bites of joy in your kitchen. Trust me, you won’t regret it, and your family will thank you.
How to Make Apple Fries
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Ingredients:
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
- 1 lemon
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Oil for frying (such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Store-bought caramel sauce
- Store-bought chocolate sauce
Directions:
- Start by preparing your whipped cream. Combine heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Mix on high speed until the cream thickens, around a minute. Set aside in the fridge until serving time.
- In another bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined; this will coat your fries later.
- Pour the frying oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat it to 400°F.
- Cut the apples into sticks, about ½-inch thick. Avoid cutting them too thinly to maintain a good texture post-frying.
- Sprinkle the apple sticks with lemon juice, making sure they are all evenly coated.
- Toss the apple sticks with flour, cornstarch, and baking powder until fully covered.
- Once the oil is hot enough, fry the apple sticks in small batches for 60-70 seconds each, ensuring the oil keeps its temperature.
- Once golden brown, remove the apple fries from the oil, drain the excess oil, and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve warm with caramel, chocolate, and whipped cream dips. Enjoy the delightful taste!
Don’t Have Flour? Here’s What to Use Instead
If you’re out of all-purpose flour, you can substitute it with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a slightly different texture and taste. Though it might have a grainier texture, it can also add an interesting flavor profile. Another alternative is using pastry flour, which can offer a tender texture closer to all-purpose.
Best Ways to Store Apple Fries Leftover
Apple fries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, let them cool thoroughly before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. For best results, reheat them in an oven or air fryer to bring back some crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.
Side Dishes to Complete Your Apple Fries Experience
Pair these apple fries with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between hot and cold. Another option is serving them alongside mixed nuts or a cheese platter for a sweet and savory mix. To complement the apple fries, a warm caramel latte or spiced chai can enhance the spiced flavors.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Your Apple Fries
To ensure your apple fries are crispy, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. Using a thermometer can help maintain the ideal temperature. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the oil temperature consistent. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Seasons of Flavor: Transforming Apple Fries Year-Round
In the spring, try adding a hint of lavender or rosewater to your whipped cream for a floral twist. During summer, replace chocolate sauce with a fresh raspberry coulis for a refreshing change. For winter, add a sprinkle of ginger or clove to the cinnamon-sugar mix for a warm spice addition.
FAQs:
What type of apples work best for apple fries?
Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their firm texture and tartness, which perfectly balance the sweetness of the dips. However, you can also try Honeycrisp or Fuji apples if you prefer a sweeter option. These apples provide a similar crispness that holds up well during frying.
Can I make apple fries in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Air frying is a healthier alternative that reduces oil usage. Simply follow the same preparation steps, then air fry the apple sticks at 375°F for about 7-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. They may not be as golden but will still be a tasty treat.
Is there a way to make the apple fries gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Be sure the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. You can use the same amounts as the original recipe, and you’ll still end up with a delicious gluten-free version of apple fries.
How do I prevent the apple fries from turning soggy?
To keep them crispy, ensure your oil is sufficiently hot before frying. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will regulate the temperature. Once removed from the oil, promptly drain the apple fries and serve them hot, as they crisp up upon cooling.
Can I prepare the apple fries in advance?
It’s best to serve them fresh to maintain their crispness, but you can prepare and slice the apples ahead of time, storing them in lemon water to prevent browning. Coat and fry them just before serving to ensure they’re at their crunchiest and most delicious.
What’s the best way to serve apple fries at a party?
Arrange them on a large platter with various dipping sauces like caramel, chocolate, and a selection of fresh, homemade whipped cream. You could also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dash of cinnamon on the platter for extra flair. They’re sure to be a hit!
Apple Fries
Equipment
- frying pot or deep skillet
Ingredients
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
- 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- oil for frying (like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
Dipping Sauces:
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- store-bought caramel sauce
- store-bought chocolate sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the cream if you're making it from scratch. In a bowl, mix heavy cream, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until it begins to thicken, then set aside or chill for later use.
Preparing the Apples:
- In a different bowl, blend together the granulated sugar and cinnamon thoroughly.
- Heat the frying oil in a deep skillet or pot until it reaches 400°F.
- Cut the apples into sticks about ½-inch thick, being careful not to make them too thin as they can become soggy.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the apple sticks in the bowl, making sure to coat them well.
- Toss the apples with cornstarch, flour, and baking powder until they are evenly coated.
Frying the Apples:
- Once the oil is hot, remove excess coating from the apple sticks and fry them in batches for 60-70 seconds each to prevent them from becoming greasy.
- When the apple fries are golden, take them out of the oil and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve warm with the dipping sauces. Enjoy!
