If you’re looking for a truly irresistible treat that combines the crispness of fresh apples with the cozy warmth of cinnamon and sugar, then this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These golden-fried apple slices are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and doused in a comforting cinnamon sugar mix that will instantly transport you to a cozy fall afternoon. Paired with a luscious, creamy caramel dip that’s got just the right touch of tangy sweetness from cream cheese, this recipe is a total game-changer for snack time, dessert, or even a fun party appetizer. Ready to dive in? Let me walk you through every delightful step to make these irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe relies on simple ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role in bringing the dish to life—from the tartness of the apples to the rich creaminess of the dip.
- Tart apples (4 to 5 Granny Smith or Pink Lady): Their firm texture holds up perfectly when fried, and their natural tartness balances the sweetness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): Helps tenderize apples and prevents browning while adding a subtle tang.
- Sugar (1 cup plus 1/2 cup for coating): Sweetens the batter and generously coats the fries for that perfect crunch.
- Wondra flour (1 cup): A super-fine flour that creates a light, crisp coating on the apple slices.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral in flavor and great for frying to golden perfection.
- Cinnamon (1/8 cup): Adds warm spicy notes that elevate the sugar coating beautifully.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces): The star of the dip, offering rich tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the caramel.
- Cool Whip (8 ounces) or whipped cream alternative: Lightens the dip for a fluffy, creamy texture.
- Caramel sauce (1 cup): Sweet and buttery, it’s the perfect finish for the dip—store-bought or homemade.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Apples and Buttermilk Bath
First up, peel and slice your apples into fry-like strips. As you slice, immediately drop the pieces into a bowl with the buttermilk and sugar mix. This little bath stops the apples from browning and adds a subtle sweetness that will complement the cinnamon sugar later on. It’s a simple yet crucial step to keep those apple fries looking fresh and tasting great.
Step 2: Coat the Apples in Wondra Flour
After soaking, dredge each apple slice lightly and evenly in Wondra flour. This fine flour is your secret weapon for a light, crispy coating that sticks well and fries up beautifully golden. Make sure not to over-coat, as you want to preserve the apple’s natural crispness inside.
Step 3: Fry Those Fries to Golden Perfection
Heat your vegetable oil in a fry pan or deep fryer until it’s hot enough to sizzle. Carefully place the coated apple slices in the oil without crowding the pan. Watch for a gorgeous golden-brown color on the bottom side before flipping them to crisp up the other side. The smell alone will make you eager for the next step!
Step 4: Drain and Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar
Once fried, quickly move your apple fries onto paper towels to soak up any excess oil—this keeps them from feeling greasy. While they’re still hot, generously sprinkle them with the cinnamon and sugar mixture. This step helps the cinnamon sugar melt slightly on the warm apples, creating a sticky, sweet coating that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Whip up the Cream Cheese Caramel Dip
For the luscious dip, blend cream cheese and Cool Whip together until completely smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the caramel sauce, stirring just until combined. Spoon the dip into a bowl and drizzle a little extra caramel on top for an elegant touch. This dip is rich, tangy, and sweet all at once—perfect for pairing with the cinnamon sugar apple fries.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra wow factor, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over your apple fries. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty snowy effect and an extra hint of sweetness. You can even add a pinch of flaky sea salt atop the caramel dip to highlight its buttery richness.
Side Dishes
These apple fries are magical enough to stand alone, but if you want to serve them with something, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of warm spiced cider. Both pair beautifully and elevate this dish into a cozy seasonal celebration that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the apple fries stacked in a rustic wooden basket lined with parchment paper for a charming, casual look. Or, dip several fries on skewers into the cream cheese caramel sauce for a fun and shareable appetizer that’s perfect for parties. Get creative and see how your presentation can make this beloved Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe even more delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rare!), keep the apple fries in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours to maintain their crispness. For longer storage, refrigerate them but be aware the fries will soften a bit as they cool.
Freezing
Freezing fried apple slices is possible but not ideal, as the texture changes upon thawing. If you’d like to freeze, flash freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat by crisping in an oven for best results, rather than microwaving.
Reheating
To bring your apple fries back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore their crunch without making them soggy. Avoid the microwave since it can make them chewy and lose their golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith or Pink Lady apples work best because of their firmness and tartness, you can experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter crunch. Just be mindful of how soft the apple gets when cooked.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the coating?
Yes! You can substitute Wondra flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or a finely ground rice flour to achieve a similar crispy coating. Just keep the coating light to maintain the right texture.
Can I make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade caramel sauce is a wonderful option if you have the time. It adds that fresh, buttery depth of flavor that store-bought versions sometimes lack. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before mixing with the cream cheese for the dip.
What’s the best way to slice the apples?
Slice the apples into thin sticks, about 1/2-inch wide, similar in shape to French fries. This size ensures quick frying and the perfect balance of crisp outside with tender inside.
Can this recipe be made without frying?
You could try baking the apple fries for a lighter version, but they won’t get as crispy as when fried. Baking at a high temperature with a light coating of oil can still yield a tasty treat, just keep a close eye to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe at home because it’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and a flavor combination that hits all the right notes—this recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends on any occasion. Once you make these, I promise apple fries won’t ever be the same again in your kitchen!
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Cinnamon Sugar Apple Fries with Cream Cheese Caramel Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously crispy apple fries coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, served with a creamy caramel dip. These apple fries are a delightful treat perfect for dessert or snack time, combining the tartness of fresh apples with a crunchy fried coating and a luscious dip.
Ingredients
Apple Fries
- 4 to 5 tart apples (Granny Smith or Pink Lady)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup Wondra flour
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/8 cup cinnamon
Caramel Dip
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (or 1 cup whipping cream with 1/2 cup sugar, whipped until stiff)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oil and Buttermilk Mixture: In a fry pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil for frying until it reaches the proper frying temperature. In a medium-size bowl, mix together the buttermilk and 1 cup of sugar. Peel and slice the apples, adding them to the buttermilk mixture as you go to prevent browning.
- Coat the Apple Slices: Spread Wondra flour evenly in a shallow dish. Remove apple slices one at a time from the buttermilk mixture and lightly coat all sides in the flour to prepare them for frying.
- Fry the Apples: When the oil is hot, gently place the coated apple slices into the oil, making sure they do not touch. Fry until the bottom side turns golden brown, then flip to brown the second side evenly.
- Drain and Sprinkle: Quickly remove the fried apple slices to a tray lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease and let cool slightly. While hot, immediately sprinkle them with the cinnamon and sugar mixture for a sweet, flavorful finish.
- Prepare the Dip: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and Cool Whip (or whipped cream with sugar) and blend until smooth and completely mixed. Stir in the caramel sauce thoroughly.
- Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, optionally drizzling a little extra caramel sauce over the top for decoration. Serve the apple fries warm alongside the caramel dip.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Pink Lady for the best flavor and texture.
- Wondra flour is preferred for a light, even coating, but all-purpose flour can be substituted if needed.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without greasy absorption.
- For the dip, whipping cream with sugar is a great alternative if Cool Whip is unavailable.
- Adjust the cinnamon-sugar coating to your taste preference for sweetness and spice.
