These Air Fryer Apples are a warm and sweet snack that feels like a hug on a plate! Just cut the apples, sprinkle some cinnamon, and let the air fryer work its magic!
It’s so easy to whip them up; you might just make them every day! I love enjoying these with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of honey on top—yummier than candy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Honeycrisp and Fuji are my top choices for their sweetness and firm texture, but feel free to use any type you have. Granny Smith adds a nice tartness, while Gala apples are soft and sweet—all delicious options!
Butter: I love using melted butter for flavor, but if you want to make this dairy-free, you can substitute coconut oil or even a bit of olive oil. The taste will be slightly different, but still tasty!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for that warm flavor. If you want to switch it up, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for an autumn twist that can elevate the dish!
Sugar: The sugar is optional. For a healthier option, you can leave it out, or substitute it with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amount to your taste preferences.
How Can You Ensure Your Apples Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting apples to the right texture is key! To achieve that tender and slightly caramelized finish, keep these tips in mind:
- Slice the apples evenly so they cook at the same rate. Aim for 1/2-inch wedges.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this allows hot air to circulate and cook the apples evenly.
- Give them a shake or flip halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
By carefully monitoring their cooking time, you can achieve crispy edges and a soft inside that’s simply delightful!
How to Make Air Fryer Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or your favorite variety)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by washing and coring the apples. Slice them into even wedges, making sure they’re about 1/2 inch thick for uniform cooking.
2. Mix the Flavoring:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Coat the Apple Slices:
Add the apple slices to the bowl and toss them gently to coat each wedge evenly with that delicious cinnamon mixture. Make sure every piece is covered for the best flavor!
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes while you finish preparing the apples. This step is key for even cooking!
5. Arrange the Apple Slices:
Place the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Remember not to overcrowd them—this way they can cook evenly. If you have a lot, it’s better to do this in batches.
6. Air Fry the Apples:
Air fry the apples for 10-12 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket or flip the slices halfway through cooking to get that nice tenderness and caramelization. Keep an eye on them, as cooking time may vary slightly based on your air fryer.
7. Serve:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the apples from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Serve them warm and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to take this treat to the next level!
Enjoy this quick, warm, and cozy treat—perfect as a healthy snack or a light dessert!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji are great choices for their sweetness and texture, you can use any variety you prefer. Granny Smith works well for a tart contrast, while Gala offers a softer, sweeter option.
What Can I Use Instead of Butter?
If you’re looking to make this dairy-free, coconut oil or olive oil are great substitutes for melted butter. They will give the apples a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm them up and regain that tasty texture!
Can I Add Other Spices?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a flavor twist. You can also mix in some oats or chopped nuts for added texture when coating the apples!
