Warm cinnamon and maple-glazed air fryer apples are the perfect healthy dessert that everyone will love! They are vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free. Whether you need a quick snack, a sweet breakfast, or a delightful dessert, these air fryer apples fit the bill. Their warm aroma and delicious flavor make them a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for busy days.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh apples and natural sweeteners, these air fryer apples are guilt-free.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm with vanilla ice cream, mix them into your oatmeal, or savor them on their own.
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of cinnamon and maple syrup creates a comforting taste that appeals to all ages.
- Perfect for Any Season: Air fryer apples are great in fall but can be enjoyed year-round!
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious air fryer apples, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures efficient cooking and tasty results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This tool cooks the apples quickly while giving them a crispy exterior without excess oil.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl is necessary for combining ingredients evenly before cooking.
- Cutting board: A stable surface is essential for safely cutting the apples into bite-sized pieces.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes peeling and cutting apples quick and easy.
Ingredients
Warm cinnamon and maple-glazed air fryer apples are the perfect healthy dessert that everyone will love! They are vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.
For the Apples
- 2 red apples (pink lady, honey crisp, or gala, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch bite-sized cubes)
- 2 Tbsp real maple syrup (divided)
- 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp cinnamon
How to Make Air Fryer Apples
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray to ensure the apples don’t stick during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Mixture
In a mixing bowl, add the peeled apple cubes. Toss them together with 1 Tablespoon of maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
Place the coated apple cubes into the heated air fryer basket. Ensure they don’t overlap too much; this allows for even cooking.
Step 4: Air Frying Process
Air fry the apple cubes for 10 to 14 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to promote even browning. The apples should be golden brown on the outside yet tender on the inside.
Step 5: Add Maple Glaze
Once cooked, remove the warm apples from the air fryer. Toss them with another Tablespoon of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Enjoy your air fryer apples warm! They make an excellent topping for vanilla ice cream or oatmeal or simply taste fantastic on their own!
How to Serve Air Fryer Apples
Air fryer apples are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert or a tasty addition to your breakfast, these warm, cinnamon-glazed apples can elevate any meal.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top of the warm air fryer apples for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Over Oatmeal
- Stir the air fryer apples into your morning oatmeal for added flavor and sweetness, making your breakfast both nutritious and satisfying.
As a Healthy Snack
- Enjoy the air fryer apples on their own as a healthy snack. Their natural sweetness makes them a guilt-free option anytime you crave something sweet.
In a Yogurt Parfait
- Layer the warm apples with yogurt and granola to create a delicious parfait. This makes for an excellent breakfast or dessert option.
Topped with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans over the air fryer apples for added crunch and healthy fats.
Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup
- For those with a sweet tooth, drizzle some additional maple syrup over the apples just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Apples
To ensure your air fryer apples turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use firm apples: Choose apples like Honeycrisp or Gala that hold their shape during cooking for the best results.
- Cut uniform pieces: Ensure all apple cubes are roughly the same size to promote even cooking and prevent some from becoming mushy.
- Don’t overcrowd: Place apple cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy apples.
- Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on your apples as they cook. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Shake halfway through: Give the basket a good shake halfway through cooking to ensure all sides of the apple cubes get crispy.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added layers of flavor in your air fryer apples.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Apples
Pairing side dishes with warm air fryer apples can create delightful combinations that enhance any meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes with cinnamon swirl topped with icing make an indulgent pairing.
- Granola Bars: Crunchy homemade granola bars provide energy alongside sweet air fryer apples.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding complements the sweetness of the baked apples while providing healthy nutrients.
- Pancakes: Classic fluffy pancakes served with air fryer apples create a filling breakfast experience.
- Oatmeal Cookies: Enjoy oatmeal cookies that pair beautifully with warm cinnamon-flavored apples.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the air fryer apples.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances this dish, making it feel celebratory without adding much effort.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a light side that complements the rich flavors of air-fried apples.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making air fryer apples, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Overcrowding the basket: Adding too many apple cubes at once can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure they have enough space for optimal air circulation.
- Ignoring prep time: Skipping the peeling and coring steps can affect texture. Take the time to prepare your apples properly for the best results.
- Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can lead to longer cooking times and unevenly cooked apples. Always preheat your air fryer before adding your ingredients.
- Using the wrong apple variety: Some apples are better suited for air frying than others. Opt for sweet and firm varieties like Honey Crisp or Gala for the best flavor and texture.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not adjusting the cinnamon or maple syrup can result in bland flavors. Feel free to experiment with spices or sweeteners according to your taste preferences.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store air fryer apples in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow them to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Air Fryer Apples
- Place cooled apple cubes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Remove excess air from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Air Fryer Apples
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread apples on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place apples in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Warm a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or maple syrup, and stir until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for air fryer apples?
Yes, you can use various apple types! Just ensure they are firm and sweet for the best taste and texture in your dish.
How do I make air fryer baked apples?
To make air fryer baked apples, simply stuff halved apples with oats and spices before cooking them in the air fryer until tender.
Are air fried apples healthy?
Absolutely! Air fried apples are low in calories and made without refined sugars, making them a nutritious dessert option that is also vegan-friendly.
How long does it take to cook air fryer apples?
Typically, it takes about 10-14 minutes at 380°F in an air fryer. The time may vary based on your specific model and how you cut the apples.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer apples are not only a delicious treat but also a healthy dessert that everyone can enjoy. Their warm cinnamon flavor combined with maple syrup creates a comforting experience perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts, raisins, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for more depth! Give this simple yet delightful recipe a try today!
Warm Cinnamon and Maple-Glazed Air Fryer Apples
Warm cinnamon and maple-glazed air fryer apples are a delightful, healthy dessert that everyone can enjoy! This quick and easy recipe showcases the natural sweetness of fresh apples, enhanced by the warm spices of cinnamon and the rich flavor of pure maple syrup. Perfect for busy days, these apples are ready in just 15 minutes, making them an ideal snack, breakfast addition, or satisfying dessert. Vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free, they can be enjoyed on their own or paired with vanilla ice cream for a luxurious treat. Enjoy these warm, comforting apples any time of year!
- Total Time: 0 minute
- Yield: Approximately 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 red apples (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
- 2 tablespoons real maple syrup (divided)
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peeled and cubed apples with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon. Toss until evenly coated.
- Place the apple mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking.
- Air fry for 10 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
- Once cooked, remove apples from the air fryer and toss with remaining tablespoon of maple syrup before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Choose firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala to maintain texture during cooking. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model; keep an eye on your apples for optimal results. Consider adding nuts or other spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.
