Air Fryer Apples are a sweet and easy treat! Just slice up apples, sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on top, and let the air fryer work its magic. They come out warm and tender.
These apples are perfect for a quick dessert or snack. I love serving them with a scoop of ice cream—it’s like a mini apple pie without the crust! Who can say no to that? 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape and bring out great flavor. If you prefer tart apples, Granny Smith works well. Just make sure they’re firm for the best texture!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for flavor control. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can work nicely without losing that delicious richness.
Brown Sugar/Maple Syrup: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel feel, but feel free to substitute with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness. Remember that liquids like honey might require less butter for balance.
Cinnamon: A classic spice for apples! You can mix it up and try pumpkin spice or apple pie spice if you have it on hand for a different twist.
How Do I Get My Apples Perfectly Cooked in the Air Fryer?
Cooking apples in the air fryer can be quick and easy, but the key is to manage the cooking time and temperature so they become tender and caramelized without turning mushy.
- Slice apples evenly into about 1/2-inch thick pieces. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Toss the slices in your butter and sugar mixture thoroughly to coat each piece. This helps with flavor and prevents sticking.
- Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes. This step ensures your apples start cooking immediately when you place them in.
- Arrange slices in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, do this in batches to allow proper air circulation.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
After these steps, your apples will be tender and delicious. Enjoy warm as a treat or as an addition to other desserts!
How to Make Air Fryer Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apples:
- 2 medium apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and roughly 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a warm, delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Remove the core using an apple corer or a knife, then slice them into about 1/2-inch thick rings or half-moon shapes. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar (or maple syrup), cinnamon, nutmeg (if you’re using it), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and forms a nice glaze.
3. Coat the Apples:
Toss the apple slices in the mixture, making sure each piece gets coated evenly. This will add flavor and help with the caramelization during cooking.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps to cook the apples more evenly.
5. Air Fry the Apples:
Place the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them, as this may hinder even cooking. If necessary, do this in batches.
6. Cooking Time:
Air fry the apples for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should turn tender and have a lovely caramelized look.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the apples from the air fryer and serve them warm. They taste fantastic on their own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a creamy treat!
Enjoy this quick and healthy dessert that’s bursting with warm cinnamon flavor, perfect for cozying up in fall or anytime you crave something sweet!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Fuji, Gala, and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can use any firm apple variety you enjoy. Granny Smith apples offer a tart flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the topping.
Can I Make These Apples Without Butter?
Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. It will still add richness and help with caramelization.
How Do I Store Leftover Air Fryer Apples?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply air fry them again for a few minutes until warmed through, or microwave for about 30 seconds.
Can I Add Other Spices or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like ginger or allspice for added flavor. You can also top the warm apples with nuts, granola, or whipped cream for extra texture and taste.
