Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

If you’re looking for a delightful snack that brings warmth and sweetness to your day, you’ve found it with these Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries! They are the perfect treat for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s so simple to prepare and fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon. Plus, they’re an excellent way to enjoy fresh fruit in a fun and delicious way!

These Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries are not only tasty but also provide a healthier alternative to traditional fries. They’re quick to whip up, making them ideal for satisfying those sweet cravings without any guilt. Whether it’s an after-school snack or a cozy evening treat, these apple fries are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these sweet treats ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the fun fry shape, and you can feel good about serving them something wholesome.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even as a side dish – the possibilities are endless!
• Make ahead: Prep them in advance for busy days; just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Deliciously spiced: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates an irresistible flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. They come together beautifully to create those mouthwatering Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries.

For the Apple Fries

• 4 medium Apples (firm, crisp varieties recommended): Such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala.
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted (or Coconut Oil/Vegetable Oil for vegan option).
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (or Coconut Sugar/Brown Sugar).
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon.
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Optional).
• Pinch of Salt.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! There are plenty of ways to customize your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries to suit your taste.

• Add some crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
• Dip it up: Serve with yogurt or peanut butter on the side for dipping – it adds a delicious creaminess!
• Switch up the apples: Use different apple varieties based on what’s in season or what you enjoy most!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step makes cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking. If you’re using an air fryer instead, check its instructions since preheating might not be necessary.

Step 2: Wash and Core Apples

Next up, wash your apples thoroughly. Standing each apple upright, carefully cut around the core to create four large pieces. Alternatively, if you have an apple corer/slicer handy, use that for uniform wedges—it can save time!

Step 3: Cut into Fries

Now it’s time to turn those apple pieces into fries! Lay them flat-side down and cut into fry shapes about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Keeping them uniform ensures even baking; thicker fries will be softer while thinner ones will be crispier—choose based on your preference!

Step 4: Pat Apples Dry

Gently pat those cut apple fries dry with a paper towel. This is an important step because reducing excess moisture helps the butter and cinnamon sugar mixture stick better, leading to that perfect texture we all love.

Step 5: Combine Sugar and Spices

In a small bowl, whisk together your granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, and pinch of salt until well combined. This fragrant mix is what gives our apple fries their delicious character!

Step 6: Coat the Apples

Place all your apple fries into a large bowl. Drizzle melted butter (or oil) over them and toss gently until they’re evenly coated. This step is crucial as it helps our spice mixture adhere beautifully.

Step 7: Add Cinnamon Sugar

Now sprinkle that wonderful cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered apple fries. Toss again gently—make sure every fry gets coated in that sweet goodness!

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the coated apple fries out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd them! If needed, use two baking sheets; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking.

Step 9: Bake

Slide that baking sheet into your preheated oven! Bake for about 15-25 minutes; keep an eye on them starting at around the 15-minute mark—they should be tender yet hold their shape when pierced with a fork.

Step 10: Check for Doneness

Your apple fries are done when they’re tender with slightly golden brown edges—just enough caramelization without becoming mushy!

Step 11: (Optional) Air Fryer Method

If you’re using an air fryer instead of an oven, place the coated apple fries in the basket in a single layer (do this in batches if necessary). Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for about 8-12 minutes while giving it a shake halfway through.

Step 12: Cool Slightly and Serve

Finally, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let those delicious apple fries cool for just a few minutes before serving warm. They’ll firm up slightly as they cool—perfectly delectable! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors.

• Pat Them Dry: Don’t skip drying the apple fries after cutting. This step helps the butter and sugar mixture adhere better, ensuring every fry is coated perfectly and crisps up nicely in the oven.

• Mind the Thickness: Cut your apple fries to a uniform thickness of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking; thicker fries will be softer while thinner ones will be crispier—choose according to your preference!

• Avoid Overcrowding: When arranging the apple fries on the baking sheet, make sure they are in a single layer with some space between them. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, resulting in a less-than-ideal texture.

• Watch Closely While Baking: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your apple fries starting at around 15 minutes. You want them tender with a beautiful golden-brown edge without becoming mushy—perfectly baked, just like you envisioned!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries

Serving Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries is as much about presentation as it is about taste! These delightful treats can be enjoyed in various ways that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture contrast and added nuttiness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Yogurt Dip: A creamy vanilla yogurt dip pairs beautifully with the warm apple fries, providing a cooling contrast that enhances their flavor.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the apple fries.

• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as Brie or Gouda, offers a savory counterpoint that contrasts well with the sweet flavors of the dish.

• Cinnamon Oatmeal: Serving these apple fries alongside a warm bowl of cinnamon oatmeal creates a comforting breakfast or brunch spread that’s both delicious and fulfilling.

Enjoy trying out these tips and serving suggestions to elevate your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries are an excellent option for meal prep, making them perfect for quick snacks or desserts throughout the week. You can prepare them in advance and store them for later enjoyment, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready when the craving strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the apple fries to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, reheat before serving to regain some crispness.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange the cooled apple fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the apple fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
• Alternatively, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious treats, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of apples for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries?

Absolutely! While firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. Each variety will lend its unique flavor and sweetness.

How do I ensure my Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries stay crispy?

To keep your apple fries crispy, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing them out allows hot air to circulate properly. Additionally, patting the apple pieces dry before coating helps achieve that perfect texture.

Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries without butter?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegetable oil. Both options work beautifully while keeping it vegan-friendly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries! They’re not just a treat but also a warm reminder of home-cooked comfort. Whether enjoyed on their own or shared with loved ones, these fries are sure to bring smiles. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!