You won’t believe how quickly your kitchen can transform into a cozy autumn escape with this delightful recipe for Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples. Picture this: the sweet scent of warm apples mingling with cinnamon fills the air, wrapping you in a comforting hug. I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe on a chilly evening when all I craved was something warm and delectable but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 10 minutes of cooking time, these tender, caramelized apple slices are the perfect indulgence for any night of the week. Not only do they make a mouthwatering dessert, but they also work beautifully as a topping for pancakes or oatmeal, bringing versatility to your menu. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight treat or looking to impress guests with a surprisingly elegant dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s as easy as it is irresistible!
Why choose Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples?
Simplicity at its best: Just a few ingredients and a quick 10-minute cook time make this recipe incredibly easy to whip up.
Irresistible aroma: The scent of cinnamon and caramelized apples will fill your kitchen, instantly creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Versatile delight: Enjoy these cinnamon apples as a sweet snack, a decadent dessert, or a delicious topping on pancakes or oatmeal.
Healthier indulgence: Made with fresh apples and minimal sugar, they’re a guilt-free treat!
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family and guests without breaking a sweat—everyone will love this warm, comforting dish.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Ingredients
For the Apples
• 4 small/medium Apples – Choose your favorite variety for the best flavor.
• 1 tbsp Coconut Oil – This helps to caramelize the apples and adds a subtle richness.
For the Seasoning
• 1½ tsp Cinnamon, divided – The warm spice adds depth and sweetness to your Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples.
• 2 tbsp Brown Sugar – This gives the apples a lovely caramel-like sweetness.
• 2 tbsp Butter, melted – Adds a decadent, buttery flavor that enhances the apples’ natural sweetness.
• 1 tsp Vanilla – A splash of vanilla elevates the dish with a comforting aroma.
Feel free to mix and match different apple varieties to create your unique flavor profile! Enjoy crafting these delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
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Core and Slice: Start by removing the cores from the apples and slicing them into ½-inch thick rings or wedges. Toss the apple slices in a bowl with coconut oil, vanilla, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon until fully coated.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. This step ensures that your apple slices cook evenly and achieve that perfect caramelization.
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Air Fry: Arrange the seasoned apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry them for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook uniformly and beautifully.
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Add the Finishing Touches: Once the apples are done, transfer them to a bowl. Gently toss them with the melted butter, the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and brown sugar for that sumptuous, sweet coating.
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Serve Warm: Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples immediately while they’re warm, allowing the cozy flavors to envelop you with each bite.
Optional: Drizzle with a little maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
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Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet and firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor and texture. Avoid mealy apples that won’t hold up during cooking.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure that apple slices are in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy apples.
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Watch the Time: While 10 minutes is ideal, keep an eye on the apples toward the end to avoid burning. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer’s performance.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix in nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor twist. Just remember, it’s all about enhancing the Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples without overpowering them.
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Serve with Toppings: For added wow factor, serve with whipped cream, yogurt, or a sprinkle of nuts. This not only elevates the dish but also adds a delightful crunch!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can core and slice your apples up to 24 hours in advance, tossing them in coconut oil, vanilla, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to prevent browning. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your air fryer and air fry the seasoned apple slices for 10 minutes, adding the melted butter, remaining cinnamon, and brown sugar right before serving. This method ensures that your delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples are just as delicious, with the sweet, warm flavors ready to embrace you at a moment’s notice!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples?
Imagine your kitchen enveloped in the warm embrace of cinnamon while you enjoy these delightful apples, and consider what could enhance your meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with warm cinnamon apples creates a nostalgic dessert experience.
- Pancakes: Serve warm apple slices atop fluffy pancakes for a brunch that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
- Oatmeal: Stir in these spiced apples to your morning oatmeal for an extra layer of sweetness and warmth.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over your air fryer cinnamon apples will elevate them to a decadent treat. This sweet addition pairs beautifully with the spice.
- Greek Yogurt: Top your cinnamon apples with a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt for a balanced treat that combines warmth and freshness.
- Layers of Cake: Use these apples as a stunning layer in a cake or trifle—an unexpected twist that will impress your guests.
- Mascarpone Cheese: A dollop of mascarpone adds a rich and creamy element, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the apples.
- Hot Teas: Sip on a cup of spiced chai or peppermint tea, which complements the flavors beautifully for a cozy experience.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts the tenderness of the apples.
Mix and match these pairings for a meal that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
Room Temperature: Enjoy these apples fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them at room temperature for up to 1 day in a covered container to maintain moisture.
Fridge: Store your Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the apples in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, restoring that delightful texture!
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Variations
Customize these delightful treats to suit your taste or dietary needs!
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Maple Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetener that enhances the apple’s flavor beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans before air frying for added texture and a satisfying crunch in each bite.
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Sugar-Free Delight: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to lower the sugar content without sacrificing taste.
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Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an aromatic twist that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
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Coconut Bliss: Substitute regular butter with coconut cream for a rich, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples.
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Fruit Fusion: Blend in slices of pears or peaches for a fruity medley that makes each serving unique and vibrant.
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Chili Heat: For a kick, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes over the apples before cooking to tantalize your taste buds.
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Overnight Oats Topping: Use these cinnamon apples as a delicious topping for your overnight oats the next morning for a wholesome breakfast.
Feel free to explore and make this recipe your own!
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples?
I recommend using sweet and firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. These apples hold their shape well during cooking and provide a deliciously sweet flavor. Avoid using mealy apples, as they won’t create the desired texture.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples?
For room temperature, keep them in a covered container for up to 1 day to maintain moisture. If refrigerating, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’ll still taste delightful, but I bet you won’t have leftovers!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples?
Absolutely! First, spread the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months. To use, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer for a warm treat!
What if my Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples come out soggy?
If your apples end up soggy, it may be because they were overcrowded in the basket. Be sure to arrange them in a single layer for even cooking. Also, avoid overcooking to prevent them from releasing too much moisture. Aim for that lovely caramelization!
Are Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples safe for my pets?
While apples are generally safe for dogs in moderation (just remove the seeds and core!), the added sugar and butter aren’t suitable for pets. It’s best to keep this treat just for you and your family, providing a special dish just for them.
Can I use sugar substitutes in this recipe?
Certainly! You can swap out the brown sugar for alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup if you prefer. Just keep in mind that using less sweetener may alter the caramelization, so you may need to adjust the amounts to your taste!
Delicious Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples: A Sweet Healthy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Core and slice the apples into ½-inch thick rings or wedges. Toss in a bowl with coconut oil, vanilla, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon until fully coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for a few minutes.
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket and air fry for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Transfer apples to a bowl and toss with melted butter, remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Serve warm immediately.
