Get ready for a sensational taste experience with our Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries! This innovative fall recipe transforms ordinary apples into an irresistible, crispy, and sweet delight that will captivate everyone from the first bite. Imagine tender, spiralized apple strands, lightly floured and fried to golden perfection, then coated in a warm, fragrant blend of sugar and cinnamon. These delightful fries are perfect on their own, but truly become an indulgent treat when dipped into a rich, luscious caramel sauce. It’s a fun, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering, from family dinners to festive parties. Say goodbye to the mundane and welcome this exciting new addition to your autumn menu!
Ultimate Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries: Your New Fall Obsession
Prepare to fall head over heels for today’s recipe! We’re confident you’ll adore these Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries as much as our family does. This unique creation has been an absolute sensation in our home, quickly rising to the top of our most requested dishes. Over the years, our kids have enthusiastically sampled countless culinary experiments, but the mere mention of Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries sparks unparalleled excitement!
There’s something truly special about serving these sweet apple fries alongside a warm, gooey caramel sauce. For those seeking an extra layer of decadence, we highly recommend pairing them with our signature Salted Caramel Sauce. The combination is simply divine – a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and warmly spiced notes that creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Be warned: this treat is so good, it might just become your new addiction!
These versatile apple fries are ideal for a quick, impressive dessert after a weeknight meal or as a delightful snack for game day gatherings. They offer a refreshing change from typical snacks and desserts, ensuring your guests will be talking about this fun and incredibly tasty recipe long after the last fry is gone. Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with this innovative and utterly delicious dish!
Why These Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries Are a Must-Try
In a world full of desserts, these Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries stand out as a true culinary gem. They combine the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon with the playful texture of curly fries, creating an experience that’s both familiar and exciting. Here’s why you absolutely need to try this recipe:
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The natural tartness of the apples perfectly balances the sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, creating a symphony of flavors that screams autumn. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a tender, warmly spiced apple interior.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: If your kids are tired of the same old fruit snacks, these “apple fries” will be an instant hit. The fun curly shape makes them appealing to children and adults alike, ensuring they disappear quickly at any party or family meal.
- Surprisingly Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, these fries are incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in about 20 minutes, making them ideal for spontaneous cravings or last-minute dessert needs.
- Versatile Serving Options: While undeniably fantastic with caramel, these apple fries are also delicious with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar. They’re perfect as a standalone dessert, a side dish for brunch, or a unique party snack.
- A Unique Twist on Fall Flavors: Move over, apple pie! These curly fries offer a fresh, modern take on classic apple and cinnamon pairings. They provide all the cozy, nostalgic vibes of fall in a fun, hand-held format.
Choosing the Best Apples for Your Curly Fries
The success of your Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries starts with selecting the right apples. You want apples that are firm enough to hold their shape during spiralizing and frying, yet also offer a good balance of tartness and sweetness to complement the cinnamon-sugar coating. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Granny Smith: A classic choice for baking and frying due to its firm texture and pronounced tartness. This acidity provides a wonderful contrast to the sweet coating.
- Jonathan or Jonagold: These apples offer a great balance of sweet and tart, with a crisp texture that holds up well when cooked. Jonagold, a cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, is particularly flavorful.
- Braeburn: Known for its crisp texture and complex sweet-tart flavor, Braeburn apples are excellent for cooking and will maintain their shape beautifully.
- Honeycrisp: While a bit sweeter, Honeycrisp apples are incredibly crisp and juicy, making them a delicious option. If you prefer a sweeter fry, this is a fantastic choice.
When selecting your apples, look for ones that are firm to the touch, free of bruises, and have vibrant skin. Medium to large apples work best for spiralizing, yielding longer, more impressive “fries.”
Essential Ingredients for Crispy Apple Cinnamon Fries
Gathering your ingredients for these delightful apple fries is simple. You’ll need just a handful of common pantry staples to create this extraordinary treat. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect crispy texture and heartwarming flavor.
- Medium or Large Baking Apples: As discussed, firm and flavorful varieties like Granny Smith, Jonathan/Jonagold, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp are ideal. They provide the perfect canvas for our sweet and spiced creation. (Approximately 3 apples for 6 servings).
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the secret to achieving that irresistible crispy exterior. A light dusting of flour creates a thin barrier that helps the apples brown beautifully and prevents them from becoming soggy. (About ½ cup).
- Granulated Sugar: The base for our delicious cinnamon-sugar coating. It provides sweetness and helps create a lovely caramelized crust on the fries. (About 1 cup).
- Ground Cinnamon: The star spice! Cinnamon infuses the apples with its warm, aromatic, and comforting flavor, truly defining the “cinnamon” in Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries. (Approximately 2 tablespoons).
- Oil for Frying: A neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point is essential. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil all work wonderfully for deep frying, ensuring your fries get perfectly golden and crispy. (Enough to fill a pan with at least 2 inches).
- Caramel Sauce (Optional, but highly recommended): Elevate your apple fries with a decadent dipping sauce. Our Salted Caramel Sauce recipe is phenomenal, but a good quality store-bought caramel will also do the trick.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries: Step-by-Step Perfection
Time needed: 20 minutes
Follow these simple steps to create delicious Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries:
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Prepare the Frying Oil.
Begin by filling a deep frying pan, Dutch oven, or electric deep fryer with at least 2 inches of a neutral-flavored oil such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Place the pan over medium heat and carefully heat the oil to a precise temperature of 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately. Adjust the heat as needed throughout the frying process to maintain this consistent temperature, which is key for perfectly cooked and crispy fries.
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Peel and Spiralize the Apples.
While the oil is heating, prepare your apples. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from each apple thoroughly. Once peeled, use a spiralizer to transform the apples into long, curly “fries.” If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can simply cut the apples into thin, fry-like strips using a sharp knife. Ensure the strips are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
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Dust Apples with Flour.
Transfer the spiralized or cut apple pieces into a large mixing bowl. Generously dust them with all-purpose flour. Using tongs or your clean hands, gently toss the apple pieces, ensuring each strand is evenly coated with a thin layer of flour. This coating is essential for achieving a wonderfully crisp exterior.
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Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture.
In a separate medium-sized bowl or a shallow pie plate, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and the cinnamon is evenly distributed. Set this fragrant blend aside, as you’ll need it immediately after frying.
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Fry the Apples to Golden Perfection.
Carefully place a handful of the floured apple pieces into the preheated oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the apples in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Cook them for 2-4 minutes, or until they achieve a beautiful light golden brown color and are wonderfully crispy. Once cooked, use a spider strainer or slotted spoon to promptly remove them from the hot oil.
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Immediately Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar.
Without delay, transfer the hot, fried apple pieces directly into the bowl with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Gently shake or toss them with tongs until every curly fry is generously coated. The heat from the freshly fried apples will help the cinnamon-sugar adhere perfectly, creating a glistening, flavorful crust.
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Serve Warm.
Remove the coated apple fries from the cinnamon-sugar mixture and transfer them to a serving dish. These Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries are best enjoyed immediately while they are still warm and at their crispiest. Serve them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as our recommended caramel sauce, for an extra special treat.
Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries: Your Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you master your Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries and ensure the best possible experience:
Absolutely! An air fryer is a fantastic alternative for achieving crispy apple fries with less oil. After coating the spiralized apples in flour, arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at around 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Once done, immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Always follow your air fryer manufacturer’s directions for optimal results.
While these Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries are truly best enjoyed fresh and warm for maximum crispiness, you can prepare them 2 to 3 days in advance. Be aware that their texture will soften slightly over time. If preparing ahead, store them properly to maintain as much freshness as possible.
To keep any leftovers, store your Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries in a tightly sealed airtight container. Place them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Consume them within 2-3 days for the best quality.
As mentioned, these fries are undeniably at their peak when fresh. However, if you have leftovers you wish to reheat, a quick zap in the microwave can warm them through, though they might lose some crispness. For a crispier reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly re-crisped.
No spiralizer? No problem! You can absolutely still make this delicious recipe. Simply cut your peeled apples into thin, fry-like strips using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Aim for consistent thickness, similar to classic French fries, to ensure even cooking. Then, proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed, and you’ll still have fantastic apple fries to enjoy!
Yes, baking is another great option for a lighter version. After coating the spiralized apples in flour, spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly mist them with cooking spray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender-crisp. Immediately toss with the cinnamon-sugar mixture after baking.
While caramel is a perfect match, feel free to get creative! A simple cream cheese glaze (cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk), a chocolate dipping sauce, or even a dollop of whipped cream with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon can elevate these fries to new heights. For a unique twist, try a maple cream sauce for an extra touch of fall flavor.
Beyond the Fryer: Creative Serving Suggestions
So, you’ve whipped up a batch of these incredible Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries – now, how to serve them to truly impress? While they are undeniably addictive on their own, a little extra flair can turn them into a show-stopping dessert or a memorable snack. Here are a few creative ideas:
- The Classic Caramel Dip: We can’t stress enough how amazing these fries are with a rich, buttery caramel sauce. For an ultimate experience, pair them with our homemade Salted Caramel Sauce. The hint of salt truly amplifies the sweet apple and cinnamon flavors. A bowl of warm caramel is a must-have accompaniment!
- A La Mode Delight: Serve a warm pile of apple fries alongside a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of warm, crispy, spiced apple and cold, creamy ice cream is pure bliss. A drizzle of extra caramel or even chocolate syrup takes it over the top.
- Whipped Cream Dream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg mixed in, makes for a lighter yet equally satisfying topping. It’s simple, elegant, and lets the apple and cinnamon flavors shine.
- Dessert Nachos: Arrange your apple fries on a platter, then drizzle with caramel and chocolate sauce. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even some crumbled graham crackers for a fun, shareable dessert “nacho” style.
- Brunch Star: Don’t limit these to just dessert! Serve them as a sweet side dish for a weekend brunch. They pair wonderfully with pancakes, waffles, or a savory egg dish, offering a delightful sweet counterpoint.
- Festive Platter: For holidays or parties, arrange the fries artfully on a large platter with several dipping options: caramel, chocolate, and a simple vanilla glaze. Garnish with a few fresh apple slices or a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation.
Aren’t these Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries absolutely awesome?! We’re so excited for you to try this recipe. And seriously, did you try them with a generous helping of caramel sauce?! We bet you loved it! Please leave us a comment below and let us know what you thought of this delightful recipe. Your feedback inspires us to keep creating delicious new treats!
Other Apple-Inspired Recipes You May Enjoy
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon, you’ll be thrilled to explore these other fantastic apple-centric recipes from our kitchen. Each one celebrates the versatility and deliciousness of apples, perfect for any occasion:
- Classic Fried Apples: A Southern comfort food staple, these tender, buttery fried apples are a timeless side dish or dessert, reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen.
- Easy Apple Cake – Only 3 Ingredients!: Incredible simplicity meets irresistible flavor in this unbelievably easy apple cake recipe, perfect for a quick, sweet treat.
- EASY Apple Pie Bars: All the wonderful flavors of apple pie packed into convenient, hand-held bar form, making serving a breeze.
- No-Bake Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Indulge in a creamy, dreamy cheesecake infused with the flavors of caramel and apple, all without turning on your oven.
- Traditional Caramel Apples: The quintessential fall treat, these classic caramel-coated apples are a delightful blend of crisp fruit and chewy sweetness.
6 servings
Apple Cinnamon Curly Fries
Jamie Sherman
10 mins
10 mins
20 mins
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Equipment
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Premium Swivel Vegetable Peeler
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Spiralizer 5-Blade Slicer, Strongest-and-Heaviest Spiral Slicer
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Spider Strainer
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GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer
Ingredients
- 3 medium or large baking apples, Granny Smith, Jonathan or Jonagold, Braeburn, Honeycrisp
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- oil for frying
- Caramel Sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Fill a deep frying pan with at least 2-inches of oil. Heat over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain this temperature.
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Peel and spiralize the apples. If you don’t have a spiralizer, cut into thin french fry-like strips.
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Place the apples in a large bowl. Dust them with flour, giving them a few tosses with tongs or clean hands to ensure the apples are evenly coated.
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In a medium bowl or pie plate, combine the sugar and cinnamon until evenly mixed. Set aside.
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Fry the apples in batches until they are a light golden brown (2-4 minutes). Remove them from the oil and immediately shake them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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Remove apples from the cinnamon-sugar mixture and serve immediately. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- You may use a deep fryer or air fryer for this recipe if you prefer. Follow the manufacturers’ directions. Baking is also an option for a lighter version; see FAQs for instructions.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 52g,
Protein: 1g,
Fat: 0.3g,
Saturated Fat: 0.04g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g,
Sodium: 1mg,
Potassium: 90mg,
Fiber: 3g,
Sugar: 40g,
Vitamin A: 42IU,
Vitamin C: 3mg,
Calcium: 32mg,
Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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