Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe

If you’re craving a wholesome dessert that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and can be ready in under 30 minutes, you’re going to fall in love with Air Fryer Baked Apples. This treat brings together all the sweet, spiced flavors of classic baked apples without the wait—plus, you don’t have to turn on your oven! Whether you serve them for a fuss-free weeknight dessert or a festive fall gathering, each bite is soft, buttery, and beautifully caramelized. Air Fryer Baked Apples are truly that irresistible combination of healthful and indulgent that you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples to whip up these Air Fryer Baked Apples. Each ingredient serves a delicious purpose, coming together for the perfect mix of gooey filling, sweet-tart fruit, and irresistible spice.

• 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji): You want a sturdy apple that holds its shape when air fried, but still turns beautifully tender inside.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings warmth, sweetness, and a subtle caramel note that makes the filling addictive.
• 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats: Adds a toasty, chewy texture that soaks up juice as the apples cook.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic baked apple flavor and cozy aroma.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint adds depth and a gentle spice to the oat filling.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): This creates the luscious, melty binding for your oat-and-sugar mixture.
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): These add crunch, richness, and a bit of earthy flavor—totally up to you!
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: The finishing touch for aroma and a boost of creamy sweetness.

How to Make Air Fryer Baked Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by giving your apples a quick rinse and pat dry. Use a sharp paring knife or an apple corer to carefully remove the core from each apple—but don’t cut all the way through! Leave about half an inch at the bottom so you create a little “well” for the filling. This keeps all those delicious juices and crumbly topping inside the apple as it bakes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a small mixing bowl, stir together your brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, softened butter, vanilla extract, and nuts (if using). The mixture should be crumbly and fragrant—it’s almost impossible not to steal a little taste! If your kitchen is on the cooler side, you might need to use your fingertips to work the butter in until the mixture is evenly moistened.

Step 3: Stuff the Apples

Divide your filling mixture between the four apples, pressing it lightly into the well you created. Don’t be shy—even a slightly heaping top will bake down a bit and turn golden and crisp. The mixture should be dense enough that it doesn’t easily fall out, but loose enough to be spooned in without packing it too tightly.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes so everything bakes nice and evenly. Arrange the stuffed apples upright in the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to work in batches. Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes, checking at the 15-minute mark. The apples should be fork-tender and the tops caramelized and bubbling.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Carefully lift the hot apples out of the air fryer and let them cool for about 5 minutes. The filling will firm up slightly, and the apples will be just the right temperature for devouring (plus, you’ll avoid scorching your mouth on hot sugar!). Now, all that’s left to do is pile on your favorite toppings and savor!

How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Apples

Garnishes

Nothing tops Air Fryer Baked Apples quite like a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting it melt ever-so-slightly over the warm top. Or, for a lighter touch, a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon creates an elegant finish. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a handful of extra toasted nuts makes each serving feel completely special.

Side Dishes

These baked apples are perfect on their own, but they also shine as part of a fall dessert board. Serve with other seasonal treats like ginger cookies, spiced walnuts, or a platter of sharp cheddar cheese for contrast. They’re fantastic as a brunch centerpiece, too—try pairing with a bowl of Greek yogurt and some granola on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, set each Air Fryer Baked Apple in a shallow bowl with a cinnamon stick for flair. Or try slicing the apples in half after baking and arranging them on a platter for easy sharing. For kids, let them build their own apple “sundaes” with toppings like mini chocolate chips and sprinkles for a hands-on, fun dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Air Fryer Baked Apples, let them cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen as they sit, so leftovers are especially nice for breakfast!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze any extras for a future treat. Wrap each apple tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight so the texture stays as close to freshly baked as possible.

Reheating

To reheat, pop one or more Air Fryer Baked Apples back in the air fryer at 325°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave—just heat in 30-second intervals until hot. If you’re reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw completely first for best results.

FAQs

What apple varieties work best for Air Fryer Baked Apples?

Firm, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are ideal because they hold their shape but turn wonderfully tender. Softer apples (like McIntosh) might break down too much, so look for something that’s both flavorful and sturdy.

Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based vegan alternative and make sure your brown sugar is vegan friendly. The result is just as rich and delicious, perfect for sharing with anyone at your table.

Do I have to use nuts in the filling?

Nope! The nuts are entirely optional and add a little crunch, but the Air Fryer Baked Apples turn out beautifully even without them. If allergies are a concern or you prefer a nut-free dessert, simply leave them out.

My apples are tipping over in the air fryer. Any tips?

If your apples won’t stand upright, trim a very thin slice off the bottom to create a flat surface. This helps them stay stable in the basket, preventing any filling from spilling out during cooking.

How do I prep Air Fryer Baked Apples ahead of time?

You can core and fill the apples up to one day ahead. Store them covered in the fridge (uncooked), then air fry just before serving. It’s a wonderful trick for easy entertaining or prepping dessert for a busy weeknight.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Air Fryer Baked Apples, now’s the time! They’re easy, comforting, and totally customizable for every craving—and there’s just something magical about the way your kitchen smells as they cook. Whether you’re new to air frying or are already a baked apple devotee, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Don’t wait for a special occasion: whip up a batch and enjoy a scoop of pure autumn joy tonight!

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