Apple fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional French fries. Made with just a few simple ingredients and cooked in an air fryer, these crispy treats are perfect for satisfying your snack cravings without any guilt. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making apple fries in an air fryer, step by step. So, let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Apples
Step 1: Selecting the Apples
The first step in making apple fries is choosing the right type of apple. You want to select firm and crisp apples that won’t turn mushy when cooked. Popular choices for apple fries include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady apples. These apple varieties offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them ideal for this recipe.
Step 2: Preparing the Apples
Once you have picked the apples, it’s time to prepare them for frying. Start by washing the apples thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. After that, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. If desired, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. However, if you prefer the fries without the skin, feel free to peel the apples before slicing them.
Slicing the Apples
Step 3: Core the Apples
Next, you need to core the apples. You can use a coring tool or a simple paring knife to remove the apple core. Make sure to cut around the stem area and remove all the seeds and tough parts. This step is essential as it ensures that each apple fry is free from any unwanted chewy portions.
Step 4: Slice the Apples into Fry Shapes
After coring the apples, it’s time to slice them into fry-like shapes. You want to aim for thin and even-sized strips to ensure that they cook evenly and achieve a nice crunch. A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife would be perfect for this task. However, if you don’t have those tools, you can carefully slice them by hand. Just make sure to be cautious to avoid any accidental cuts.
Coating the Apple Fries
Step 5: Preparing the Coating
To give the apple fries a crispy and flavorful coating, you will need a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix them together until well combined. This coating will add a delightful sweetness and warm aroma to the fries.
Step 6: Tossing the Apple Fries
Take the sliced apple fries and place them in a separate bowl. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the fries and toss them gently to ensure that they are evenly coated. The oil will help the coating stick to the fries while promoting a crisp texture during the cooking process.
Step 7: Coating the Fries
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the oiled apple fries. Make sure to toss them well, so the coating adheres to each fry. It’s essential to distribute the mixture evenly over the fries to achieve consistent flavor in every bite.
Cooking the Apple Fries
Step 8: Preheating the Air Fryer
Before cooking the apple fries, you need to preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. While waiting, you can arrange the coated apple fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy transfer into the air fryer later.
Step 9: Air Frying the Fries
Once the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook the apple fries. Place the coated fries into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced out and not overcrowded. This allows the air to circulate properly for better crisping. Cook the fries for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Step 10: Checking for Doneness
After the cooking time is complete, check the apple fries for doneness. They should have a golden-brown color and a crisp texture. If they need a bit more cooking time, you can pop them back in the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your apple fries are ready, it’s time to enjoy them. There are endless options for serving these delicious and healthy snacks. You can serve them plain as they are or sprinkle some extra cinnamon-sugar mixture on top for an added sweet touch. They are also great when paired with a dip. Some popular options include caramel sauce, whipped cream, or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Conclusion
Making apple fries in an air fryer is a simple and delightful way to enjoy a healthier snack. By choosing the right apples, slicing them into fry-like shapes, coating them with cinnamon-sugar mixture, and cooking them in an air fryer, you can create a guilt-free treat that satisfies both your taste buds and your health-conscious mind. So, next time you crave a snack, grab some apples, fire up your air fryer, and indulge in the crispy goodness of homemade apple fries.