Have you ever wanted a snack that feels like dessert but is easy enough to whip up on a weekday afternoon? The Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe is exactly that magical treat—crispy, tender apple wedges dusted with cinnamon and brown sugar, baked to perfection and paired with a luscious caramel cream dip that’s simply irresistible. This recipe transforms humble apples into cozy, flavorful fries that satisfy sweet cravings without weighing you down.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a perfect harmony of sweet, warm, and creamy notes. Each component plays a vital role, from the apple’s natural tartness to the rich, smooth caramel cream that completes the dish.
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji work best): Opt for these varieties for their crisp texture and sweetness that bake beautifully without turning mushy.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Adds a golden finish and helps the seasoning stick to the wedges perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and cozy spice that complements the apples naturally.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: A touch of sweetness that caramelizes during baking for those delightful crisp edges.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispness): Helps create a slightly crisp exterior on the apple fries.
- For the Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce: The star of the dip, adding luscious richness and deep caramel flavor.
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Offers tangy creaminess that lightens the caramel’s sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the sauce with warm vanilla notes for extra depth.
How to Make Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Apples
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Wash and core your apples, then slice them into thick wedges resembling fries. The thickness ensures they bake evenly and hold their shape without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Season the Apple Wedges
In a large bowl, toss the apple wedges with melted butter, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and cornstarch if you want that extra crispiness. The butter helps the seasoning coat each wedge evenly, while the cinnamon and sugar create that perfect sweet-spiced aroma as the apples bake.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Spread your seasoned apple wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them so air can circulate. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want the apples to become tender yet retain a slight bite, with lightly golden edges that hint at caramelized sugar.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce
While the apples are baking, mix the caramel sauce, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This dipping sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and vanilla flavors that elevate the apple fries to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once the apple wedges are out of the oven, serve them immediately with the caramel cream dipping sauce on the side. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some additional caramel sauce over the warm fries just before serving.
How to Serve Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts brings lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the softness of the apple wedges. You can also dust a little extra cinnamon or powdered sugar on top for a pretty finishing touch that actually tastes amazing.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a standalone treat, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream transforms it into an elegant dessert. For a savory contrast, serve alongside a sharp cheddar cheese platter—this sweet and savory combo is surprisingly delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the apple wedges fries in small paper cones or rustic wooden bowls for a fun snack vibe. You can also layer the wedges in a glass dessert dish with caramel cream drizzled between layers for a beautiful parfait-style presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the apple wedges in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the caramel cream sauce separate to maintain its creamy texture and freshness.
Freezing
While apple wedges fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked wedges on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating, but know they may lose some crispness.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the apple wedges in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until warm and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess. Reheat the caramel cream sauce gently on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are ideal for their balance of sweetness and firmness, you can use Gala, Pink Lady, or even Granny Smith for a tarter bite. Just keep in mind firmer apples hold their shape better when baked.
Is there a dairy-free version of the caramel cream dipping sauce?
Yes! Simply use plant-based butter instead of regular butter for the apples, and swap sour cream or Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or another dairy-free alternative to keep the sauce creamy and delicious.
Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?
Definitely. Cornstarch is optional and just helps to crisp up the apple wedges a bit more. Without it, your fries will still be tasty, tender, and perfectly enjoyable.
How sweet is this dessert? Can I reduce the sugar?
This recipe has a moderate sweetness from the brown sugar and caramel sauce, but if you prefer less sugar, feel free to reduce the brown sugar amount or use a sugar-free caramel sauce. The natural sweetness of the apples also shines through.
Can I prepare the dipping sauce in advance?
Yes, the caramel cream dipping sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Give it a quick stir before serving to restore its smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, easy-to-make snack or dessert that feels both comforting and a little special, this Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. Once you try it, I promise it will become a favorite for family gatherings, kids’ snacks, or whenever that sweet tooth calls. So go ahead—bake up some apple fries, whip up that luscious dip, and enjoy a warm hug of flavor that only this recipe can deliver.
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Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Oven Apple Wedges Fries, a healthy and tasty baked apple dessert featuring crispy cinnamon-sugar coated apple wedges served with a luscious caramel cream dipping sauce. Perfect as a kid-friendly snack or a cozy fall treat, this recipe combines sweet and warm flavors with a creamy dip that adds richness without heaviness.
Ingredients
Apple Wedges
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji work best)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispness)
Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure non-stick baking and easy cleanup.
- Prepare Apple Wedges: Wash and core the apples, then cut them into thick wedges that resemble fries, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Coat Wedges: In a bowl, toss the apple wedges with melted butter, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and if desired, cornstarch for extra crispness. Make sure each wedge is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated apple wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even air circulation. Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through baking to ensure all sides become tender and lightly golden on the edges.
- Make Dipping Sauce: While the apple wedges are baking, combine the caramel sauce, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting consistency if necessary.
- Serve: Once the apple wedges are baked and slightly cooled, serve them warm alongside the caramel cream dipping sauce. For extra indulgence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the apple wedges before serving if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, drizzle additional caramel over the apple wedges before serving.
- This dessert or snack is kid-friendly and easy to prepare.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute melted butter and sour cream or yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
