Let's be real-who doesn't love a warm, cinnamony apple dessert that's somehow both healthy and indulgent?
Enter air fryer baked apples, the dessert you didn't know you needed in your life - whole apples cored and filled, then cooked quickly in an air fryer using circulating hot air to caramelize the filling - typically cooked at about 375°F for 10-15 minutes to soften the fruit and caramelize the sugars.
Oh, and did I mention they're ridiculously easy to make? That's a double win right there.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Baked Apple
To whip up these scrumptious air fryer baked apples, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Apples: Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are perfect.
- Butter: Melted.
- Brown Sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
- Cinnamon: Because what's a baked apple without it?
- Nutmeg: A pinch for extra warmth.
- Walnuts or Pecans: Optional, for a bit of crunch.
- Raisins: Optional, for a chewy texture.
For the Filling:
- Oats: Rolled oats work best - use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats for a chewier texture.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: Your choice for a natural sweetener - about 1 to 2 tablespoons per apple depending on sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash for flavor.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baked Apple
Here are a few tips to ensure your baked apples turn out heavenly:
- Core Carefully: Make sure to remove the apple core without going all the way through the bottom to create a "bowl" for the filling - leave about ¼ inch of base so the filling doesn't leak.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking - preheat to 375°F for 3-5 minutes; for another beginner-friendly protein cooked the same way, see crispy air fryer weeknight wings.
- Keep the Skin On: It helps the apple hold its shape and adds texture; for thin, crispy slices try air-fryer apple chip snacks.
- Use Foil: Lining the air fryer basket with foil helps with easy cleanup.
Variations and Add-Ons
Spice up your air fryer baked apples with these creative ideas:
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the filling for a crunchy bite - about ¼ cup adds crunch without overpowering the oats.
- Berry Bliss: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries for great flavor - about ¼ cup per four apples works well.
- Chocolate Chip: Toss in some mini chocolate chips to the filling for a nice surprise.
Air Fryer Baked Apple
Equipment
- Air-fryer
- Apple Corer or Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon
- Aluminum Foil (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 firm apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup walnuts or pecans chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup raisins optional
For the Filling:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Carefully core the apples, making sure not to puncture the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, nuts (if using), raisins (if using), maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Spoon the filling mixture into each cored apple, packing it slightly.
- Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Place the filled apples in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 18-20 minutes, until the apples are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbling.
- Serve immediately. Optional: Drizzle with a bit more maple syrup or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Choose firm apples for the best results; softer apples may become mushy.
- Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place the baked apples back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F or until heated through.
Nutrition
These baked apples pair well with simple sides; for tender, fluffy potatoes made the same way try crispy-skinned air fryer potatoes for fluffy interiors. If you want a larger-format dessert with similar spiced apple flavors, try air fryer apple pie for flaky crust.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
