These crispy apple fries are a fun and tasty treat! They’re coated in a light batter and fried until golden, making them a crunchy delight. Pair them with a sweet caramel cream dip for an extra yummy touch!
Who wouldn’t love munching on fries that are actually apples? I mean, it’s like getting dessert while being healthy! Perfect for kids and kids-at-heart. 😄 Trust me, they won’t last long on your plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For crispy apple fries, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best due to their texture and tartness. If you’re looking for something sweeter, Fuji or Gala apples can also be great choices.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the go-to for the batter. However, if you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend and still get that crispiness!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor to the fries. If you want a twist, try using pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg for a different yet delicious taste.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives the dip its richness. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if needed.
How Do I Ensure My Apple Fries Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture on your apple fries is key to this recipe. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
- Slice Thickness: Cut your apple fries about 1/2 inch thick. Too thin and they’ll burn; too thick and they’ll be soggy.
- Hot Oil: Make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s not at 350°F (175°C), the fries will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Frying in small batches allows the temperature to stay consistent, resulting in perfectly crispy fries.
- Drain Well: Once fried, place the fries on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This will keep them crunchy until you serve them.
Follow these tips, and your apple fries will turn out wonderfully crispy and delicious!
Crispy Apple Fries with Sweet Caramel Cream Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Fries:
- 3 large apples (preferably a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sweet Caramel Cream Dip:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus another 10 minutes for frying and mixing the dip. So, in total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by washing and coring the apples. Next, slice them into fry-shaped sticks, about 1/2 inch thick. Set the apple fries aside so they are ready for dipping.
2. Make the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to create your dry mixture. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk together until fully combined. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
3. Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan until about 1-2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer handy, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the top when ready.
4. Fry the Apple Fries:
Dip your apple sticks into the batter, letting any extra drip off. Carefully place them into the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fries to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
5. Prepare the Caramel Cream Dip:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Next, stir in the caramel sauce, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the dip is creamy. If you find it too thick, add a bit more heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve:
Arrange the crispy apple fries on a serving platter and place the bowl of sweet caramel cream dip on the side. Enjoy these tasty treats warm for the best flavor!
This crunchy and sweet treat is perfect as a snack, dessert, or party appetizer. Enjoy every bite! 🍏🍮
FAQ for Crispy Apple Fries with Sweet Caramel Cream Dip
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for their firmness, you can use any apples you enjoy. Fuji or Gala apples will give you a sweeter taste, just keep in mind they may be slightly softer.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the batter and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken while sitting.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Fries?
Store any leftover apple fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness instead of a microwave, which may make them soggy.
Can I Make the Caramel Cream Dip in Advance?
Yes! The caramel cream dip can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and if it’s too thick, you can add a splash of heavy cream to loosen it.
