At AllFruitRecipes.com, every recipe is a page from our family’s kitchen journal—each filled with memories, laughter, and the warmth of simple ingredients. Air fryer baked apples are one of those comforting dishes I discovered on a chilly evening while trying to make something warm and sweet without the hassle of oven baking. With fragrant cinnamon, maple-kissed oats, and a golden finish from the air fryer, this treat quickly became a favorite. It’s quick enough for a weekday dessert and charming enough for guests—just like my grandma’s cozy fruit desserts, but with a modern twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish hits that rare sweet spot between indulgent and nourishing:
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute desserts.
- Healthier indulgence: Whole apples, oats, and maple syrup create a naturally sweet option.
- Minimal cleanup: Thanks to the air fryer, you skip the oven mess.
- Flexible: Works with any apple variety—Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala.
Plus, if you’re already a fan of our fruit cocktail recipe or healthy fruit salad bliss, this dessert will feel like a sweet extension of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh apples (Honeycrisp preferred, but Pink Lady, Gala, or Granny Smith work well)
- Old-fashioned oats
- Maple syrup
- Ground cinnamon
- Butter (unsalted is ideal)
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)
- Kosher salt (if using unsalted butter)
- Flaky sea salt (like Maldon, for finishing)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Baked Apples
- Prepare the apples: Core the apples using an apple corer, or simply slice them in half through the core and stem. Use a spoon or paring knife to scoop out a bit more flesh to make room for the filling.
- Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, mix oats, melted butter, a drizzle of maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble: Lightly sprinkle the apple halves with more cinnamon, then stuff each cavity with the oat mixture.
- Air fry: Arrange the apples in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 12–15 minutes. They’re done when soft, golden, and slightly caramelized on top.
- Cool and serve: Wait until the apples are cool enough to touch, or grab a pair of tongs to move them to a plate. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
Air frying intensifies the apples’ natural sweetness while ensuring a soft, tender texture—no sogginess, no uneven baking. The oat filling crisps beautifully without burning, thanks to the even air circulation. Maple syrup and cinnamon come together perfectly to create a warm, comforting taste that brings back good memories.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Baked Apples
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for contrast.
- Top it off with a bit more maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt to make it feel extra fancy.
- Pair with spiced rubbed shrimp tacos for a sweet-savory dinner.
- Mix it into your morning fruit salad for a fun fall-inspired surprise.
Conclusion
These air fryer baked apples are more than just a quick dessert—they’re a reminder of the simple joys of warm, homemade comfort. Whether you’re using up extra apples or just craving something sweet with wholesome ingredients, this recipe fits beautifully into your weeknight or weekend routine. The air fryer turns this classic into a modern-day treat, making each bite a cozy hug in dessert form.
FAQs
Can you bake apples in an air fryer?
Yes! Baking apples in an air fryer creates tender fruit with a deliciously caramelized top in less time than an oven.
Are apples good in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Apples hold their shape well, and the circulating heat enhances their natural sugars, making them ideal for healthy and tasty desserts.
What temperature do I bake baked apples at?
The ideal temperature is 350°F, which ensures the apples cook through without burning the filling.
Is baking in an air fryer the same as an oven?
While the method differs, the air fryer provides similar results to a convection oven—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—but in a fraction of the time and with easier cleanup.
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