Air Fryer Apples are a warm, sweet treat that’s super easy to make. Simply slice apples, sprinkle with cinnamon, and let the air fryer do its magic! Yum!
These tasty bites remind me of cozy fall days. I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—talk about a perfect pairing! 🍏🍨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for their sweet and crisp texture. If you prefer less sweetness, Granny Smith apples are a great choice. You can also mix different types for a variety of flavors!
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect here, as it allows you to control the salt. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap it with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the apples nicely. For a healthier alternative, you can use honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount you use, as they are sweeter than sugar.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for that warm flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of nutmeg or even cardamom for a unique twist!
How Do I Ensure My Apples Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking apples in the air fryer can yield delicious results if done right! It’s important to pay attention to a few details:
- Preheat the air fryer so that the apples start cooking immediately. This helps achieve an even texture.
- Cut your apples into uniform slices, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket! Allow space for air circulation, which helps to caramelize the apples nicely.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Depending on your air fryer model, the apples may cook a little faster or slower. Aim for 8-10 minutes and check for tenderness.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked air fryer apples that are tender and bursting with flavor!
Air Fryer Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have warm, tender, and sweet apples ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. This step is key for getting perfect, evenly cooked apples!
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Give this mixture a good stir until everything is well combined.
3. Coat the Apple Slices:
Once your mixture is ready, add the sliced apples to the bowl. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the apple slices gently until they are evenly coated with the sweet cinnamon mixture.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; if you have a lot of apple slices, it’s better to cook them in batches.
5. Air Fry the Apples:
Air fry the apples for 8-10 minutes. Remember to shake the basket or flip the slices halfway through cooking to ensure that they caramelize evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender and lightly browned.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the apples are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving bowl. If you like, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or drizzle with honey for extra sweetness! Serve them warm as a comforting snack, a tasty topping for ice cream, or enjoy them on their own.
These air fryer apples are not only tender and caramelized but also infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon—making them a quick and delightful treat any time of year!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Fuji and Honeycrisp are great choices for their sweetness and crispness, you can also use Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor. Mixing different apple varieties can add a fun twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Air Fryer Apples?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes, or in the microwave if you’re short on time. Enjoy them warm!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or eliminate the sugar if you prefer. The natural sweetness of the apples will still shine through. If you like, you can drizzle them with honey or maple syrup after cooking for added sweetness.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor?
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon. You can also toss in some chopped nuts or raisins before air frying for added texture and taste!