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My air fryer apples recipe features warm apples coated in a blend of maple syrup, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla. They’re healthy, versatile, and taste just like apple pie filling. We love them over yogurt bowls or with a sprinkling of granola for a wholesome dessert.
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On those rare occasions when I’m craving the flavors of a healthy apple pie but am feeling especially lazy, I make my air-fried apples.
With the magic of the air fryer, you can have apples that are crisp and firm but with gooey, maple-coated centers. Cinnamon and ginger infuse every bite, making for a healthy treat suitable for any occasion. I’ve tested this with all kinds of apples, and even those super tart Granny Smith apples work well. You can scale it up or down, and it tastes delicious piping hot straight out of the air fryer.
Air Fryer Apples Recipe Highlights
- Quick and easy: These take just 15 minutes to make. The hardest part is waiting for them to cool off before digging in.
- Versatile: Serve them over Greek yogurt, ice cream, in overnight oats, or if you’re me, dig in with a spoon and call it a day.
- Healthy: Without trying, this recipe is vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and made with little to no fat.
If you enjoy sweets made in the air fryer, check out my air fryer s’mores, air fryer donuts, air fryer cookies, and air fryer cinnamon rolls.
★★★★★ REVIEW
“Okay, this seriously tastes like apple pie filling. I’ve been adding it to my oatmeal.” – Margarita
Key Ingredients
- Apples. I’ve tested nearly every kind of apple, and I prefer using Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or honeycrisp apples. These three are firmer than others and hold their shape well, which means they don’t become overly mushy if overcooked.
- Oil. Just a dash to get the exterior nice and crisp. I used coconut oil, but you could use olive oil, cooking spray, or butter (if not strictly dairy-free).
- Maple syrup. For sweetness and to caramelize the apples.
- Vanilla extract. For flavor.
- Spices. I used a mix of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Apple pie spice or even pumpkin spice can also work.
How to make air fryer apples
This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.
Step 1- Place the apple slices in a bowl.
Step 2- Toss the apples in the oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and spices. Ensure they are fully coated.
Step 3- Place the apples in the air fryer basket, careful not to overcrowd, and air fry for 10 minutes or until slightly crispy.
Step 4- Serve warm over yogurt, your favorite breakfasts, or on their own.
Recipe Variations
- Prefer softer apples? Chop them into finer pieces. You can also cover them once you remove them from the air fryer.
- Add extra sweetness. A dash of brown sugar enhances the caramelized texture.
- Place them in a single layer. So the apples get equal access to the heat. Depending on the size of your basket, you may want to air fry in batches.
- Mix-ins. Fold in pecans, walnuts, or coconut flakes for flavor and crunch.
Storage instructions
To store: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
To freeze: Place leftover cooled apples in a freezer-safe container and freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating: Microwave the apples in 20-second intervals or reheat in an air fryer until warm.
Air Fryer Apples
Video
Ingredients
- 2 large apples peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 190/375F.
- Place the cubed apples in a bowl. Drizzle the oil and maple syrup over the apples and toss together. Sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla over the apples and mix together.
- Place the apples in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd them, and air fry for 10 minutes or until slightly crispy.
- Enjoy the apples warm over oatmeal, yogurt, or on its own.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently asked questions
Not necessarily! I prefer to peel them as my family prefers them to have a texture similar to apple pie filling. However, they cook just as nicely with the skin-on, and you get the extra nutrients and fiber.
You can, but I find that they don’t caramelize as nicely as when they are chopped. You’ll also need to keep an eye during the cooking process, as thinner sliced apples cook much quicker than chunks.
Ways to enjoy air-fried apples
As mentioned earlier, we love using the apples as a topping over breakfasts and brunches. Here are some favorites:
Enjoying your recipes and the meal plans!
Thank you
So welcome, Sue!
Great as side to the chops
Okay, this seriously tastes like apple pie filling. I’ve been adding it to my oatmeal.
Hi arman, I have a bag of frozen sliced apples given to me.
Will frozen work in the air fryer?
I’m new to air frying but have been using your recipes to practice. So far, they’ve all been delicious!
I don’t see why not- I don’t think thawing them will help because it will make it soggy
Made this yesterday. Apples were tasting so different and better.
Air fryer is amazing!
Okay, these air fryer apples are making my fall menu STAT! I made an apple pie oatmeal with them and now can’t wait to do other combos!
Wow apples can be baked in air fryer? Arent they going to turn out “soggy”?
Okay, I just made these and added them to my oatmeal and they made it taste like apple pie! So yummy!!!
You have so many great recipes, this one is no exception!!
I don’t have an air fryer, would this work in oven?
Yes, absolutely! Try baking them at 180C/350F for around 12-15 minutes, giving them a stir halfway through.
Can you recommend an alternative to the coconut oil?
Butter is great 🙂
Friends, these air fryer apples were inspired by the filling in my healthy apple pie recipe. Add this over your oatmeal, with yogurt for a protein-packed snack, or as a pancake topping.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes you can!