Warm, cozy, and bursting with cinnamon flavor, these Air Fryer Apples taste just like apple pie filling without the fuss. In only 15 minutes, you’ll have soft, caramelized apples coated in maple syrup and spice, ready for snacking or dessert. They’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making them a wholesome treat you can feel good about. Perfect for topping oatmeal, pancakes, or yogurt, these apples are sweet, comforting, and simple enough for any day of the week.
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Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Apples
You’ll love how simple and quick this recipe is. In just minutes, your air fryer transforms fresh apples into warm, golden bites with a sweet cinnamon aroma. There’s no need for butter or heavy toppings since maple syrup adds a naturally rich sweetness. These apples are soft inside, lightly crisp on the edges, and perfect for both kids and adults. Plus, they’re completely healthy — no refined sugar, dairy, or gluten. You can easily adjust the flavors with different spices or sweeteners, making this recipe great year-round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few basics for this recipe. Apples are the star, so pick fresh, firm ones like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture. Coconut oil gives a touch of richness while helping the apples caramelize beautifully. Maple syrup adds natural sweetness and blends perfectly with ground cinnamon or apple pie spice. Together, these ingredients create warm, fragrant, soft apples that taste indulgent but stay healthy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Honeycrisp or Fuji, try Gala, Braeburn, or Granny Smith for a tangier bite. You can swap coconut oil for avocado oil, olive oil, or even melted butter for extra depth. For sweeteners, honey or coconut sugar work just as well as maple syrup. You can also adjust spice levels — try pumpkin pie spice or even a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy twist.
Optional Variations
For an indulgent touch, mix up a quick butter-cinnamon glaze using melted butter, brown sugar, and extra spice. You can sprinkle crushed nuts, granola, or drizzle caramel over your warm apples for added crunch and sweetness. These small tweaks turn your Air Fryer Apples into a decadent dessert that still feels wholesome and homemade.
How to Make Air Fryer Apples
Making these apples is fast and foolproof. First, gather your apples, oil, syrup, and cinnamon. Then follow these simple steps:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
While it heats, prepare your apples so they cook evenly. Preheating helps them caramelize faster and prevents soggy spots.
Prepare apples and mix with oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
Slice the apples evenly and toss them in a bowl with coconut oil, syrup, and spice. Make sure every piece is coated for rich flavor in each bite.
Arrange evenly in the basket and cook 5–6 minutes per side.
Lay them in a single layer without overlapping. If needed, cook in two batches so air circulates properly.
Flip halfway for golden, caramelized results.
This ensures even cooking and prevents burning. The apples will soften while their edges turn lightly crisp and golden.
Cool slightly before serving.
Let them rest a few minutes so the syrup thickens slightly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or enjoy plain.
Serving Suggestions
These apples taste like warm apple pie filling, making them perfect with ice cream, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla yogurt. You can also spoon them over oatmeal, pancakes, or French toast for a comforting breakfast. Try pairing them with caramelized air fryer pineapple slices for a fruity dessert mix. Their soft texture and cinnamon-spiced sweetness make them versatile and satisfying at any time of day.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4–5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just microwave for 20–30 seconds until warm. The apples stay soft and flavorful even after reheating, so they’re perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks during the week.
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apples
Cut your apples evenly so they cook consistently. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer, as this prevents proper air flow and even browning. Flip halfway through for a golden, caramelized finish. Choose the right apple — Honeycrisp for sweetness, Granny Smith for tartness. If you want a richer glaze, add a touch of butter or brown sugar at the end. These simple tricks guarantee delicious, melt-in-your-mouth apples every time.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- caramelized air fryer pineapple slices
- quick and easy air fryer apple fritters
- sweet air fryer churro bites recipe
- fluffy air fryer chocolate chip cookies
- quick air fryer biscuit donuts
- crispy air fryer zucchini fries
Final Thoughts
If you love warm, cozy desserts but don’t want to spend hours baking, these Air Fryer Apples will be your new favorite. They’re quick, healthy, and taste just like classic pie filling. Enjoy them plain, with yogurt, or as a sweet breakfast topping. Try this recipe today, then share your favorite way to serve them on Pinterest.
Air Fryer Apples
Equipment
- Air fryer Preheated to 375°F (190°C)
- Mixing bowl For tossing apples with oil and cinnamon
- Tongs or spatula To flip apples halfway through cooking
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced or chunked
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or apple pie spice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- In a bowl, combine apple slices with coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and cinnamon. Toss until evenly coated.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket or tray. Arrange the apples in a single layer to allow air circulation.
- Air fry for 5–6 minutes, flip the apples, then cook another 5–6 minutes until golden and caramelized.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle remaining maple syrup over the top if desired.
