Air Fryer Apples

Craving something sweet but still fast, wholesome, and ridiculously easy? These Air Fryer Apples are absolutely irresistible—warm, perfectly tender, and bursting with cozy cinnamon flavor. Each bite tastes like the inside of the best apple pie, but without any of the hassle!

The magic happens in the air fryer. These apples caramelize beautifully with a crunchy sugar topping and luscious, melty insides—ready in just 15 minutes. No need to turn on your oven for that classic, comforting aroma.

This is a go-to recipe for healthy snacking, a weeknight dessert, or even as a fun brunch topping. I created these on a whim after an orchard trip, and now they're my all-time favorite way to satisfy autumn cravings (with almost zero effort!).

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 25 minutes—faster than classic baked apples!
• Healthier than most desserts, with minimal added sugar and oil
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy
• Perfect for meal prep, snacking, or topping oatmeal and pancakes

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Apples

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Apples

Apples are the absolute star of this dish, offering natural sweetness and juicy texture. Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala for perfectly tender—but not mushy—results. Slice apples evenly (about 1/2-inch thick), peeling is optional but recommended for ultimate softness. If you want extra tartness, Granny Smith works, though the flavor will be less sweet.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon delivers that signature cozy, holiday-perfect aroma and flavor. Go for freshly-ground cinnamon if possible for the boldest taste. Feel free to experiment with pumpkin spice or a little nutmeg for a fun twist.

Brown Sugar

A touch of brown sugar adds depth and caramel-like flavor, helping the apples to caramelize in the air fryer. You can use coconut sugar or maple sugar for a slightly healthier, refined sugar-free option, but white sugar will work in a pinch.

Lemon Juice

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice keeps the apples bright and prevents browning. Don’t skip this! If you’re out, a splash of orange juice or even water with a pinch of citric acid works.

Coconut Oil

A bit of melted coconut oil helps the apples stay moist and adds a subtle richness. You can swap in melted butter (for a more classic dessert taste) or use a neutral oil to keep it simple and vegan.

Instructions for Air Fryer Apples

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Apples

Peel and core your apples, then cut them into even, 1/2-inch thick slices or chunks. The more uniform your pieces, the more evenly they'll cook.

Toss with Seasonings

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, melted coconut oil, lemon juice, salt, and vanilla (if using). Toss everything together until all the apples are well coated and glistening.

Arrange in Air Fryer

Spread the seasoned apple slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket or on a tray. Crowding will lead to steaming, not caramelizing, so work in batches if needed for the best texture.

Air Fry Until Caramelized

Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking or stirring halfway through. The apples should be fork tender and lightly golden with crisp edges when done. Thicker slices might need an extra 1–2 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the apples cool for a minute or two (they’ll be piping hot!), then enjoy as is or with your favorite toppings.

Recipe Variations

Go Nutty

Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apples before air frying. You'll get a toasty crunch in every bite, and the nuts gently roast as the apples cook.

Lower Sugar Option

For an even lighter treat, reduce the brown sugar to 2 teaspoons or skip it entirely—the apples’ natural sweetness shines through beautifully, especially with sweeter apple varieties.

Spiced-Up Apples

Toss in a pinch of ginger, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice blend with the cinnamon to create your own fall-inspired flavor profile. Cardamom or allspice are also great additions.

Make It Vegan or Dairy-Free

Coconut oil keeps this dessert fully plant-based, but you can substitute vegan butter for a richer, buttery flavor.

Maple Apple Delight

Swap the brown sugar for pure maple syrup and add a drizzle before serving for deeper flavor and glossy, caramelized apples.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Air Fryer Apples warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of almond butter for a decadent dessert. They’re also fantastic spooned over oatmeal, pancakes, French toast, or even waffles for an autumn-inspired breakfast treat. Try garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or fresh mint for an extra-special touch!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Air Fryer Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes for best texture, or microwave in 20-second bursts until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze cooled apples in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Apples (FAQ)

Q: Can I use unpeeled apples in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Leaving the peels on adds extra fiber and color, though the texture will be a bit chewier.

Q: Do I need to add oil to the apples?
A: A small amount of oil helps achieve a caramelized, glossy finish, but you can omit it for an oil-free version. The apples might dry out a bit more without oil.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
A: Definitely. Just cook the apples in batches so you don’t overcrowd your air fryer, ensuring even caramelization.

Treat yourself to these cozy, cinnamon-kissed Air Fryer Apples—your home will smell like a fall festival, and your tastebuds will thank you! If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a rating and a comment below. I can’t wait to hear how you enjoy them!