Air Fryer Apples
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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 sprinkled with granola for a wholesome dessert.
When I’m craving the flavor of warm apple pie but don’t have time (or the energy, let’s be honest) to bake, I make these air-fried apples instead. They take less than 15 minutes from start to finish and make the whole kitchen smell like cinnamon.
It took some testing to figure out which apples hold up best. The goal was crisp edges, not soggy centers- and i finally nailed it. The air fryer gives you golden edges with gooey, maple-coated middles that taste like pie filling straight from the oven.
I often make this as a healthy dessert topper (it’s SO good over vanilla yogurt). And, it’s versatile enough to stir into overnight oats (my partner’s favorite) or even enjoyed by the spoonful.
What readers are saying
★★★★★ – “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 Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp. These three are firmer than others and hold their shape well, so they don’t become overly mushy when 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.
Arman’s pro tip
Air fry 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.
Recipe Variations
- Prefer softer apples? Chop them into finer pieces. You can also cover them after removing them from the air fryer.
- Add extra sweetness. A dash of brown sugar enhances the caramelized texture.
- Mix-ins. Fold in pecans, walnuts, or coconut flakes for flavor and crunch.
Frequently asked questions
Not necessarily! I like 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 on the cooking process, as thinly sliced apples cook much more quickly than chunks.
✅ Nutrition reviewed
Nutrition information has been reviewed by registered dietitian Felicia Newell, MScAHN, RD, CPT.
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.
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!