Air Fryer Apples

These Air Fryer Apples are easy to make with crisp fresh apples, filled with crunchy nuts or granola and air fried or baked until tender. They’re the perfect simple and cozy treat for late summer and all through fall. Naturally gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, grain-free and paleo friendly.

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Updated October 2023

Easy Air Fryer Apples Recipe

Looking for a fun and delicious way to use up those fresh apples? These Air Fryer Apples are inspired by classic baked apples. Instead of using your oven, you bake the apples in the air fryer. All you need are some fresh apples, oil, maple syrup, coconut sugar and cinnamon. Serve as is or with a a scoop of your favorite grain-free granola and dairy-free ice cream and you’ve got the perfect healthy and cozy fall dessert! They’re completely kid and family approved and are also gluten-free, paleo, dairy-free and vegan.

The best part is, if you still have lots of late summer stone fruit leftover, we’ve included cooking times for those too! Don’t have an air fryer? No problem! There’s even oven instructions too!

Ingredients you need

• Apples or Stone Fruit: Versatile and delicious, these fruits provide the natural sweetness and fruity goodness that make this recipe a winner. ou’ll need to use about 2 apples cut into halves. You can also use any mix of nectarines, plums or apricots.
• Avocado Oil, Melted Coconut Oil, or Vegan Butter: A light coating of oil or butter adds richness and helps the apples caramelize beautifully.
• Maple Syrup: This sticky, sweet liquid enhances the natural flavors of the fruit and provides a touch of sweetness. You can also sub with any sticky liquid sweetener of your choice.
• Coconut Sugar or Granulated Brown Sugar: These sugars contribute to the caramelization process, resulting in that irresistible golden-brown finish. Feel free to sub with Lakanto golden monk fruit sweetener, Brown Swerve or any granulated brown sweetener of your choice for a lower sugar option.
• Cinnamon: The aromatic spice that ties it all together, adding warmth and depth to the dish.

Optional for serving:

• Dairy-free vanilla ice cream
• Whipped coconut cream
• Grain-free granola
• Crushed grain-free cookies

How to make Air Fryer Apples

Making apples in the air fryer couldn’t be more simple:

Air Fryer Method:

• Prepare the fruit: Cut fruit in half.
  • Apples: remove the core and seeds using a spoon or a paring knife.
  • For stone fruits: remove the seed. 
• Preheat and prep the air fryer basket: If your air fryer requires preheating, preheat to 350 F, as needed. Place an air fryer parchment paper liner (or cut a sheet of parchment paper to fit your air fryer basket) inside your air fryer basket. 
  • Add fruit: Place the apple halves, skin side down on top of the parchment paper inside the air fryer basket.
  • Fill the apples: Brush with oil (or lightly coat with coconut oil or avocado oil spray). Drizzle maple syrup evenly over each fruit half, then sprinkle coconut sugar and cinnamon over each.
  • Cook: Air fry until softened and caramelized. Timing will depend on your air fryer model as well as type and size of fruit.  
    1. Apples 12-16 minutes
    2. Nectarines and peaches: 10-15 minutes 
    3. Plums: 5-7 minutes
    4. Apricots: 5-7 minutes
• Serve and enjoy with your favorite toppings: Serve warm with dairy-free vanilla ice cream (or whipped coconut cream), grain-free granola or crushed cookies.

Oven Method:

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make baked apples by following these instructions:

1. • Prepare the fruit: Cut apples in half.
     1. Apples: remove the core and seeds using a spoon or a paring knife. For stone fruits, remove the seed. 
   • Preheat and prep the baking pan: Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Add fruit: Place fruit in a single layer on the baking sheet. 
   • Fill the fruit: Brush with oil (or lightly coat with coconut oil or avocado oil spray). Drizzle maple syrup evenly over each fruit half, then sprinkle coconut sugar and cinnamon over each.
   • Cook: Bake in preheated oven until softened and caramelized. Timing will depend on type and size of fruit:
     1. Apples 35-40 minutes
     2. Nectarines and peaches: 25-30 minutes 
     3. Plums: 15-20 minutes
     4. Apricots: 15-20 minutes

Tips for Success:

With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create a batch of irresistible Air Fryer Apples that will become a seasonal favorite. Embrace the flavors of fall and revel in the delightful combination of tender, caramelized apples with hints of maple and cinnamon.

1. Best Apples to Use: Select firm and crisp apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. These apples hold their shape well during cooking and offer a delicious contrast of sweetness and tartness.
2. Uniform Slicing: For even cooking, try to slice the apples as uniformly as possible. This ensures that each piece caramelizes evenly, resulting in a consistent texture and taste.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer or Oven: If your air fryer or oven requires preheating, be sure to follow the instructions. Preheating helps create the perfect cooking environment and ensures that the apples cook to perfection.
4. Use Parchment Paper or Liner: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, use a parchment paper liner in the air fryer basket or on the baking sheet for oven cooking.
5. Coat the Apples Thoroughly: Make sure to coat the apple halves with oil or oil spray, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and cinnamon thoroughly. An even coating ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.
6. Monitor Cooking Times: Keep a close eye on the cooking process, especially if it’s your first time making this recipe or if your air fryer or oven has varying heat settings. Adjust the cooking time if needed to achieve the desired level of caramelization.
7. Check for Doneness: To check if the apples are ready, insert a fork or toothpick into the flesh. They should be soft and tender but not overly mushy.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy your Air Fryer Apples warm, and get creative with toppings.

• Enjoy the baked apples as a wholesome dessert on chilly autumn evenings, bringing warmth and comfort to your taste buds.
• For a breakfast twist, serve the caramelized apples alongside a bowl of warm oatmeal or creamy yogurt.
• Create an enchanting dessert platter with a variety of caramelized apple varieties, garnished with fresh mint leaves and your favorite dairy-free toppings.
• Try dairy-free vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream for a luxurious touch.
• For some added crunch, sprinkle grain-free granola or crushed grain-free cookies on top. A garnish of mint leaves not only adds freshness but also a pop of color.

Variations 

• Experiment with different apple varieties to discover unique flavor profiles. Each variety brings its own charm to this delightful dessert.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness by using your preferred liquid sweetener or sugar alternative.
• Customize the spice profile by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.
• If you’re not following a dairy-free diet, regular ice cream or whipped cream can be used as well.

Substitutions:

• Avocado Oil: Olive oil or grapeseed oil can be used as a substitute.
• Maple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can replace maple syrup.
• Coconut Sugar: Brown sugar or white sugar can be used instead.

Storage and Freezer Instructions:

If you have any leftover air fryer apples, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to regain their irresistible texture.

To freeze cooked apples, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):

Q1: Can I use different fruit varieties in this recipe?

A1: Absolutely! You can use peaches, nectarines, plums, or apricots, in addition to apples. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Q2: Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

A2: Yes, you can use regular butter if you’re not following a vegan diet. It will add a rich, buttery flavor.

Q3: Can I store leftovers?

A3: Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, use a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to three months.

Q4: Can I adjust the sweetness of this dish?

A4: Certainly! You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup and sugar according to your taste preferences.

Q5: What’s the difference between coconut sugar and brown sugar?

A5: Coconut sugar has a slightly lower glycemic index than brown sugar and imparts a subtle caramel flavor. You can use brown sugar as a substitute if desired.

Q6: Do I need to preheat the air fryer or oven?

A6: It’s recommended to preheat either the air fryer or oven to ensure even cooking and that beautiful caramelization.

Q7: Can I serve this dish with regular ice cream?

A7: Of course! If you’re not following a dairy-free diet, you can serve it with regular vanilla ice cream for a classic twist.

More delicious apple recipes you will love:

Apple Butter

Homemade Applesauce

Gluten Free Apple Crisp

5 from 1 vote

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Air Fryer Apples

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

16 mins

 

These Air Fryer Apples are easy to make with crisp fresh apples, filled with crunchy granola and air fried until tender. They're the perfect simple and cozy treat for late summer and all through fall. Naturally gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, grain-free and paleo friendly.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer apples, air fryer baked apples, air fryer peaches, air fryer stone fruit, baked apples, baked fruit

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 58 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

• 2-3 apples or any stone fruit. Peaches, nectarines, plums or apricots.
• 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil , melted coconut oil OR melted vegan butter (coconut oil spray or avocado oil spray work as well)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup , or preferred sticky liquid sweetener
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar , or preferred granulated brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Optional for serving:

• Dairy-free vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream grain-free granola OR crushed grain-free cookies + mint leaf for garnish

Instructions

Cut fruit in half:

1. Apples: remove the core and seeds using a spoon or a paring knife.

2. Stone fruits: remove the seed.

Air Fryer Method:

1. If your air fryer requires preheating, preheat to 350 F, as needed. Place an air fryer parchment paper liner (or cut a sheet of parchment paper to fit your air fryer basket) inside your air fryer basket.

2. Place the fruit halves, skin side down on top of the parchment paper inside the air fryer basket.
   
3. Brush with oil (or lightly coat with coconut oil or avocado oil spray). Drizzle maple syrup evenly over each fruit half, then sprinkle coconut sugar and cinnamon over each.
   

4. Air fry until softened and caramelized. Timing will depend on your air fryer model as well as type and size of fruit.

5. Apples 12-16 minutes

   Nectarines and peaches: 10-15 minutes

   Plums: 5-7 minutes

   Apricots: 5-7 minutes

6. Serve warm with dairy-free vanilla ice cream (or whipped coconut cream), grain-free granola (or crushed cookies) + mint leaf for garnish.

   

Oven Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place fruit in a single layer on the baking sheet.

   Brush with oil (or lightly coat with coconut oil or avocado oil spray). Drizzle maple syrup evenly over each fruit half, then sprinkle coconut sugar and cinnamon over each.

2. Bake in preheated oven until softened and caramelized. Timing will depend on type and size of fruit:

3. Apples 35-40 minutes

   Nectarines and peaches: 25-30 minutes

   Plums: 15-20 minutes

   Apricots: 15-20 minutes

4. Serve warm with dairy-free vanilla ice cream (or whipped coconut cream), grain-free granola (or crushed cookies) + mint leaf for garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Air Fryer Apples

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 58 Calories from Fat 9

% Daily Value*

Fat 1g2%

Carbohydrates 13g4%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 10g11%

Protein 0.2g0%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.