If you’re looking for a snack that hits the sweet spot between cozy and wholesome, these Air Fryer Apples are going to win your heart! With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll transform fresh apple slices into caramelized bites of pure delight. Whether you enjoy them warm and tender right out of the fryer or spoon them over oatmeal or ice cream, this quick treat packs all the feel-good flavor of baked apples—no oven required. Air Fryer Apples are ideal when you’re craving something comforting yet easy enough for any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Air Fryer Apples comes from a simple ingredient list, each one playing a key role in flavor and texture. Grab these kitchen staples and let’s create something incredibly special with minimal effort!
- Apples: Choose large, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture and balanced sweetness in every bite.
- Melted Butter: This gives the apples richness and helps the spices and sugar stick for extra caramelization.
- Brown Sugar: Adds lovely sweetness and helps develop that irresistible golden color.
- Ground Cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth, making each apple bite taste like autumn in a bowl.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash for a hint of fragrant depth that elevates the whole dish.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a touch to balance the sweetness and make the flavors pop.
How to Make Air Fryer Apples
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by washing, coring, and slicing your apples into even 1/2-inch wedges. Keeping the wedges uniform ensures they’ll all cook at the same pace and get perfectly tender without any mushy bits.
Step 2: Coat the Apple Slices
In a medium bowl, toss those apple slices with the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure each slice gets a good, even coating. This is what gives Air Fryer Apples their signature caramelized edges and cozy flavor.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Spread the coated apples out in a single layer in your air fryer basket. It’s important not to overcrowd—this way, the hot air can circulate easily and caramelize the apples on all sides.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Slide the basket in and air fry those apples for 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through so every slice cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden-brown finish. The apples should be fork-tender and the edges lightly crisp. If you like them softer, you can add a couple more minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the apples from the basket while they’re still warm and fragrant. Serve them straight up as a snack, or turn them into a delicious topping for everything from pancakes to ice cream. The possibilities are practically endless!
How to Serve Air Fryer Apples
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way! Sprinkle your Air Fryer Apples with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch. Whipped cream or vanilla yogurt make a dreamy topping, too.
Side Dishes
These apples are fantastic paired with breakfast classics like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or a bowl of oatmeal. For dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, or as a sweet complement to savory pork or chicken dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Air Fryer Apples into little dessert parfaits by layering them with granola and yogurt, or spoon them into a warm tortilla with a sprinkle of granola for an apple pie-inspired wrap. They also shine as a fruity filling for crepes or baked inside puff pastry turnovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any of these irresistible apples left, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor actually deepens a bit overnight, making them an even bigger treat the next day!
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Air Fryer Apples for longer storage. Let them cool completely, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be ready for a snack or topping up to two months later.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat the apples in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or pop them back into the air fryer at 325°F for 2 to 3 minutes. They’ll taste just as delicious as when you first made them!
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for Air Fryer Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji work especially well for their sweetness and crisp texture, you can experiment with Gala, Pink Lady, or even Granny Smith if you love a tart bite. The recipe is flexible, so use what you have on hand.
Should I peel the apples before air frying?
That’s totally up to your preference. Keeping the peels on adds a little extra fiber and helps the slices hold their shape, but if you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture, go ahead and peel them.
How do I keep the apple slices from getting mushy?
The secret is to slice them evenly and avoid overcrowding the basket. Shaking the basket halfway through cooking also helps all the slices get nicely caramelized without steaming themselves soggy.
Can I make Air Fryer Apples without butter?
You can swap the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine if you’re looking for a vegan or lighter option. The flavor will change slightly, but they’ll still be sweet and delicious.
What spices can I add for a twist?
Try a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom along with the cinnamon for extra warmth and depth. Pumpkin pie spice is also fantastic if you’re in a fall mood!
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Air Fryer Apples yet, there’s truly no better time than now. They’re incredibly simple, irresistibly tasty, and endlessly versatile—just the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Give them a whirl and discover a new favorite way to enjoy apples in your own kitchen!
Print
Air Fryer Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Air Fryer Apples are a delicious and healthy snack or dessert option that’s easy to make and full of cozy cinnamon flavor. Sliced apples are coated in a sweet mixture, air fried to perfection, and can be enjoyed on their own or as a topping for various dishes. A simple and satisfying treat for any time of day!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Prepare the Apples: In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Serve warm as a snack, topping, or dessert.
Notes
- These air fryer apples are delicious on their own or served over oatmeal, pancakes, or vanilla ice cream.
- For a softer texture, cook a few minutes longer.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
