There’s something so comforting about apples—whether it’s their crisp bite or the sweet, familiar aroma they release when cooked. I’m instantly transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where apples were always the star of the season. Growing up, autumn was synonymous with visits to the local apple orchard. I remember the cool breeze, my basket in hand, and my grandmother teaching me how to pick the ripest apples. After hours of apple picking, we’d bring home the bounty and get to work in the kitchen.
While her kitchen didn’t have the modern conveniences of an air fryer, we would roast apples slowly in the oven, filling the house with the irresistible scent of caramelized fruit and cinnamon. It’s a memory I cherish deeply. Fast forward to today, and while life has gotten busier, that same comforting aroma can still fill my home in just a fraction of the time—thanks to my trusty air fryer.
These Air Fryer Apples bring me right back to those cozy autumn afternoons, with all the flavors I loved as a child but with a modern twist. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to when I’m craving something warm and sweet but don’t have the time for elaborate desserts. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon melts into the apples, creating a deliciously sticky glaze that’s perfect for a quick dessert or even an indulgent snack. And if you’re feeling a bit extra, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—it’s a little slice of heaven!
So whether you’re looking to bring some nostalgia into your kitchen or simply need a quick fix for your sweet tooth, these Air Fryer Apples are sure to hit the spot. They’re not only easy to make but also bring that same cozy warmth that makes apple season so special. Plus, the air fryer means you’ll get that perfect caramelized finish in just 10 minutes—no need to wait around.
Preparing Air Fryer Apples
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (or 3 small)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Core the apples and slice them into 1/2-inch thick wedges.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter using a microwave or stovetop.
- Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth.
- Toss the apple slices in the cinnamon mixture, ensuring each slice is well coated.
- Place the coated apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Set the air fryer to 380°F and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the apples are tender and golden.
- Remove the apple slices and serve immediately.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover air fryer apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds before serving.
Cooking Tips
Try using honeycrisp or gala apples for a naturally sweeter flavor. For a crispier texture, cook the apples for an extra 2 minutes. Add a pinch of nutmeg for a deeper spice profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these air fryer apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair well with a drizzle of caramel sauce or maple syrup for an indulgent treat.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have brown sugar, granulated sugar or honey can be used instead. Coconut oil can be substituted for butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Seasonal Variations
In fall, consider adding a sprinkle of pumpkin spice to the cinnamon mixture for a seasonal twist. In summer, serve the apples with fresh berries or a cool fruit salad.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (butter). To make it dairy-free, replace butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or margarine. It does not contain gluten, eggs, or nuts.
FAQ:
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of apple, but sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala work best. Avoid overly tart apples like Granny Smith.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is optional. Leaving the skin on adds a bit of texture and extra nutrients, but if you prefer a smoother bite, go ahead and peel them.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the apples in a regular oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I make the apples crispier?
To achieve a crispier result, you can increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes or cook them in smaller batches, allowing more space in the air fryer.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or a vegan margarine.
How long do air fryer apples last?
Air fryer apples can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.
Air Fryer Apples
Ingredients
- 2 large apples or 3 small
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Slice the apples into 1/2-inch thick pieces and remove the core.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter either in the microwave or on the stove.
- Mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract into the melted butter until well combined.
- Coat the apple slices with the cinnamon mixture, ensuring each slice is evenly covered.
- Place the apple slices in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 380 degrees F and cook for 10 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
