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When you want a cozy sweet treat that feels a bit healthier, these air fryer apples are my go-to. They’re the fastest way I know to make fruit into a warm snack or dessert in less than fifteen minutes. Throw on some cinnamon and they’re perfect with oatmeal or a scoop of ice cream.
The first time I tossed these apples together was for brunch with friends. They vanished before the pancakes could even cool down. Now every fall, I whip them up whenever I’m craving something quick and delightful.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Cinnamon: You can use Saigon cinnamon if you like stronger flavor—this is the key for that homey taste
- Melted coconut oil: Virgin coconut oil works best for an aroma boost and helps the apples caramelize rather than go soggy
- 100 percent maple syrup: If you splurge on the real deal you get a deeper flavor and all-natural sweetness
- Red apples: Choose types like Gala, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp. They should feel heavy and look smooth—not too soft—so your apples end up tasty and tender, not mushy
Simple Directions
- Add the finishing touch:
- Straight from the fryer, gently mix the apples with your last little bit of maple syrup. Eat right away for that perfect soft bite and glossy look.
- Time to fry and shake:
- Set your timer for ten to fourteen minutes. About halfway into cooking, pull out the basket and give it a shake so every bit cooks evenly and crisps up nicely. You’ll know they’re ready when the outsides are golden and the insides are soft.
- Arrange them in the basket:
- Spread those apples out in the basket you just preheated. Give them some space so everything crisps up instead of steaming.
- Mix up your apples:
- In a bowl, coat all the apple pieces with coconut oil, cinnamon, and a spoonful of maple syrup. Toss really well so every bit is shiny.
- Warm up the air fryer:
- Crank your air fryer to three-eighty Fahrenheit and spritz the basket so your apples won’t get stuck.
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I love when the house smells like warm cinnamon and bubbling maple. Once the apples are sizzling, I can’t help but sneak a few pieces right out of the basket—they hit the spot every time.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any apples left, just pop them in an airtight box and stash in the fridge up to three days. They’re tasty eaten cold, but you can bring back that just-made coziness with a few seconds in the microwave or air fryer.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Pears are awesome in place of apples for something brighter. Melted butter stands in nicely if you don't want coconut oil. And if you're out of maple syrup, try a little honey instead—go easy, it’s a bit sweeter.
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How to Serve
These apples are awesome tossed on top of pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Fold them into soft yogurt, spoon over vanilla pudding, or pile onto hot oatmeal. For dessert, scoop over vanilla ice cream and add nuts for a crunch—this combo always gets cheers at brunch.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Which apples should I pick?
Go for Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Gala. Their sweetness and crunch hold up best in the air fryer.
- → What’s the best way to chop the apples?
Peel them, scoop out the cores, and dice into 1-inch chunks. This helps everything cook just right.
- → Can I switch up the spices?
Absolutely! Cardamom or nutmeg make things extra flavorful and warm.
- → Do I need coconut oil?
It helps add a little richness and crunch, but you can use any oil you like or skip it if you want.
- → Any ideas for how to serve them?
They're awesome warm over vanilla ice cream, on oatmeal, or just by themselves straight out of the bowl.
- → Should I preheat the air fryer first?
Yeah, give it a few minutes of preheating. That way your apples get crispy and cook evenly.