Air Fryer Apples Recipe

There’s something so cozy and satisfying about warm, spiced apples, especially when they’re caramelized just right. These air fryer apples bring all the comfort of a classic apple pie without the hassle of pastry or a long baking time. With a hint of maple and cinnamon, they’re sweet, slightly crisp on the outside, and deliciously tender inside. And the best part? This recipe is so quick and simple that it’s perfect for a weekday snack or an impromptu dessert. Just a handful of ingredients, a few minutes in the air fryer, and you’ve got a treat that’s perfect on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

I remember the first time I made these – it was one of those nights when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to fuss with an oven. I’d recently gotten an air fryer and thought, “What else can this magical appliance do?” Well, let me tell you, it was love at first bite. The apples came out golden, with a delicate caramelized layer, and the cinnamon-maple combination filled my kitchen with the most incredible smell. Now, this is one of my go-to treats whenever I need a little something to brighten my day (and the house always smells amazing afterward!).

this RECIPE

A little backstory on spiced apples 🍏

Spiced apples have been around for centuries, with recipes dating back to early European and American cookbooks. Traditionally, apples were baked or stewed with spices and sugar to create comforting desserts that warmed you up on chilly nights. These treats were particularly popular in fall and winter, when apples were harvested and at their peak. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with many modern twists that bring out different flavors and textures. This air fryer version captures that nostalgic flavor but is made even easier with today’s kitchen technology. It’s a perfect way to enjoy an old-fashioned treat with a new-age twist!

Let’s talk ingredients: apples, maple syrup, and cinnamon magic

Each ingredient in this recipe brings something special to the table:

• Red apples: For this recipe, I love using Pink Lady, Honey Crisp, or Gala apples. They have a nice balance of sweetness and tartness and hold up well in the air fryer without turning mushy. If you want a slightly less sweet flavor, Granny Smith apples work too!
• Maple syrup: Real maple syrup (not pancake syrup) adds a natural sweetness and rich, caramel-like flavor. If you’re out, honey can be a good substitute, but it won’t have that same deep taste.
• Coconut oil: I recommend using refined coconut oil if you don’t want any coconut flavor in the apples. It helps them cook evenly and gives a slight crispness. You could also use melted butter for a richer taste if you prefer.
• Cinnamon: This warm spice is a classic pairing with apples, bringing out their sweetness and adding a cozy aroma. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin spice if you want to mix things up!

Essential kitchen tools: what you need (and what you don’t)

The great thing about this recipe is that you don’t need much – just a few tools and, of course, an air fryer!

• Air fryer: Naturally, this is the star of the show! Any standard air fryer will work for this recipe, but try not to overcrowd the basket. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook in batches.
• Mixing bowl: You’ll need a bowl to toss the apples with the maple syrup, oil, and cinnamon. Any medium-sized bowl will do!
• Tongs or a spatula: These will help you shake or turn the apples halfway through cooking, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Peeler and corer: While not essential, a good peeler and corer can save you some time. If you don’t have a corer, just carefully cut around the core with a knife.

Step-by-step: how to make air fryer apples

Let’s dive into the details! Here’s how to make these perfectly spiced, caramelized apples:

1. Prep your air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F. Lightly spray the basket with a bit of non-stick spray to help prevent the apples from sticking (and make cleanup easier).
2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and cut your apples into 1-inch cubes. It might seem a bit tedious, but trust me, the smaller pieces cook more evenly and get that lovely caramelization.
3. Toss in the goodness: In a mixing bowl, combine the apple cubes with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, the melted coconut oil, and the cinnamon. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated. This will ensure each piece is packed with flavor.
4. Air fry: Place the apples in the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer with a bit of space between them, so they cook evenly. Air fry for 10–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The apples should come out golden, slightly crisp on the outside, and tender inside.
5. Final touch of sweetness: Once the apples are done, toss them in the remaining tablespoon of maple syrup while they’re still warm. This adds a final layer of sweetness and a glossy finish.
6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the warm apples as they are, or get creative with toppings like a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of granola for added crunch.

Variations to try: make it your own!

This recipe is so versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan twist: This recipe is already vegan, thanks to the coconut oil and maple syrup. But if you’re using it as a topping, try adding it to dairy-free yogurt or coconut ice cream for a completely plant-based treat.
• Fall spice mix: Swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice, which adds hints of nutmeg, ginger, and clove – perfect for a fall-inspired flavor!
• Low-sugar option: If you want to cut back on sugar, use half the amount of maple syrup or skip the final drizzle. The apples themselves have plenty of natural sweetness.
• Nutty addition: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans after cooking for some added crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
• Berry blend: Add some fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or raspberries, halfway through cooking. They add a little tartness and a pop of color.

How to serve air fryer apples for maximum deliciousness

These air fryer apples are delicious all on their own, but here are some fun serving ideas to make them even better:

• With vanilla ice cream: This is my personal favorite! The warm apples and cold ice cream create a delicious contrast. Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for an extra touch.
• Over oatmeal: Add these apples to your morning oatmeal for a cozy, flavorful breakfast. The maple and cinnamon flavors soak into the oats and make every bite heavenly.
• On pancakes or waffles: Spoon the apples over a stack of pancakes or waffles for a decadent brunch. Top with a drizzle of extra maple syrup if you’re feeling indulgent.
• With yogurt: Layer the apples with Greek yogurt and granola in a glass to create a beautiful and tasty breakfast parfait.

Perfect drink pairings for air fryer apples

For a drink pairing, think cozy and comforting:

• Hot apple cider: The spices in the cider complement the warm apples beautifully. Add a cinnamon stick for extra flair!
• Chai latte: The rich, spiced flavors of chai pair perfectly with the sweetness of the apples. Try it iced if it’s a warmer day.
• Ginger tea: A mild, slightly spicy ginger tea balances the sweetness of the apples and adds a little warmth.
• Vanilla almond milk: For something creamy and simple, try vanilla almond milk. It’s mild and subtly sweet, letting the flavors of the apples shine.
• Sparkling water with a hint of lemon: If you want something refreshing, a sparkling water with a touch of lemon or apple essence is perfect for a light, clean pairing.

Storage and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes, or warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. They may lose a bit of their initial crispness, but they’ll still be tasty!

You can also enjoy them cold, especially if you’re adding them to yogurt or oatmeal. Just be sure to eat them within a few days to keep them at their best.

Adjusting the recipe for different servings

This recipe is super easy to scale up or down. If you’re making it for a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients – just be prepared to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. If you’re making a smaller portion, just cut down the ingredients proportionally. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the amount, so keep an eye on those apples!

FAQs

1. Can I use green apples instead of red?
Yes! Green apples, like Granny Smith, work well too. They’ll add a nice tartness to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.

2. What if I don’t have coconut oil?
No worries! You can use melted butter or any neutral oil, like avocado oil. Each will add a slightly different flavor.

3. How can I make this recipe sugar-free?
If you’re avoiding sugar, simply skip the maple syrup. The apples will still be sweet, thanks to their natural sugars, and you can add a pinch of extra cinnamon for flavor.

4. Can I prep these ahead of time?
You can peel and cut the apples ahead of time, but I’d recommend tossing them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Wait to add the other ingredients until just before cooking.

5. What’s the best way to clean my air fryer after making this?
Since there’s maple syrup involved, the air fryer basket might get a bit sticky. Soak it in warm soapy water for a few minutes, then use a soft sponge to wipe it clean.

Give this easy air fryer apple recipe a try and let me know how you like it! It’s a simple, comforting treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without any fuss. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings, and happy cooking!

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