1. Prepare the Apple Wedge Fries:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Slice the Apples: Wash and core the apples, then cut them into thick wedges (about 8 wedges per apple). Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a hint of tartness.
- Coat the Apple Wedges: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Toss the apple wedges in the mixture, making sure each slice is evenly coated. The cornstarch helps give the wedges a crispy finish, while the cinnamon-sugar mixture adds a delicious flavor.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated apple wedges on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle the melted butter over the apples. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the apples are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
2. Make the Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Gradually stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then remove the pan from heat.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly, thickening as it sits. It will become a rich and creamy dip that’s perfect for your apple fries.
Serving the Oven Apple Wedge Fries
Once your apple wedges are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm alongside a bowl of the caramel cream dipping sauce. For an extra indulgence, top the caramel sauce with a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for Perfect Apple Wedge Fries
- Apple Varieties: Granny Smith apples offer a nice tart contrast to the sweet caramel sauce, while Honeycrisp apples provide a sweeter flavor. Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Fuji or Gala.
- Extra Crispness: For even crispier apple fries, you can bake them for a few additional minutes, but be careful not to overbake, as the apples can become too soft.
- Caramel Sauce Variations: For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of sea salt to your caramel sauce.
Storage and Reheating
These apple fries are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.
The caramel cream dipping sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Conclusion
These Oven Apple Wedge Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce are a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With crispy, cinnamon-spiced apple wedges and a luscious caramel cream dip, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence.