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Cinnamon Sugar Churro Apple Fries – Easy Air Fryer Recipe with Caramel Dip

cinnamon sugar churro apple fries - featured image

Crisp apple sticks coated in a sweet, churro-style cinnamon sugar shell, air fried to golden perfection and served with a luscious caramel dip. This easy dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or a quick treat any day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large firm apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled and cut into fry-shaped sticks
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • Cooking spray or oil mister (avocado or canola oil)
  • 12 soft caramels, unwrapped
  • 23 tablespoons heavy cream
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel apples and cut into fry-like sticks, about 1/2-inch thick and 3-4 inches long. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
  3. Dredge apple sticks in flour, dip in beaten egg, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar panko mixture. Place coated fries on a plate.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes (if required).
  5. Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil. Arrange apple fries in a single layer, leaving space between each fry. Cook in batches if needed.
  6. Air fry for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Check at 7 minutes and add time if needed.
  7. While fries cook, melt caramels and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring often, until smooth and glossy (about 3-4 minutes). Add a pinch of sea salt if desired.
  8. Remove fries from air fryer and pile onto a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar while hot. Serve immediately with warm caramel dip.

Notes

For extra crunch, double-dip apple sticks in egg and crumbs. Dry apples thoroughly before coating. Use gluten-free flour and panko for a GF version, or flax eggs and coconut cream for vegan. Serve immediately for best texture; reheat leftovers in air fryer for 2-3 minutes. Add nutmeg or cardamom to cinnamon sugar for a spiced twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple fries, churro, air fryer dessert, cinnamon sugar, caramel dip, easy apple recipe, fall dessert, kid-friendly, party snack, gluten-free option