If you’re craving a warm, cozy treat that’s both sweet and satisfyingly crunchy, you have to try this Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe. It’s an absolute game-changer, turning simple apples into golden, caramelized bites full of cinnamon-spiced goodness. The magic lies in how the air fryer crisps the outsides while keeping the apples tender inside, creating a perfect balance that feels like autumn in every bite. Plus, it’s so quick and easy, making it the ideal snack or dessert to whip up whenever you want to add a little sweet warmth to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture without any fuss. From the tartness and firmness of the apples to the spicy warmth of cinnamon, every element works together perfectly.
- 2 large apples (Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp): Choose apples that hold up well when cooked for that perfect balance of tender and crisp.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds that signature cozy, spicy note that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (or sweetener of choice): Sweetens and caramelizes the apples beautifully during air frying.
- 2 tsp oil or butter (optional): Adds richness and helps achieve that golden, crispy texture.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Apples
First things first, grease your air fryer tray or use air fryer liners to prevent any sticking. Depending on your preference, peel the apples or leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. Chop the apples into small squares or sticks—just so they cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Toss the Apples with Flavor
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples with cinnamon, your choice of sweetener, and melted butter or oil if you’re using it. Toss everything until the apple pieces are evenly coated with a fragrant, sticky mixture that promises deep flavor once air fried.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F which is the perfect temperature to get those apples caramelized on the outside while keeping them tender on the inside. Preheating ensures an even cooking process right from the start.
Step 4: Arrange Apples in a Single Layer
Place your coated apple pieces in a single layer on the tray. Avoid overcrowding to let the hot air circulate properly, ensuring every piece gets that crisp texture. If your basket is small, it’s better to cook in two batches rather than overcrowd.
Step 5: Start Air Frying and Shake
Air fry the apples for about 7 minutes, then give the basket a good shake. This step is key to making sure the apples cook evenly on all sides and develop that gorgeous golden color.
Step 6: Finish Cooking Until Crispy
Continue cooking the apples for another 8 minutes or until they are beautifully crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn but aim for that crunchy, slightly browned exterior that’s just heavenly.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe to the next level, sprinkle on some chopped toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can also add an enticing finishing touch that will delight your taste buds.
Side Dishes
These spiced, crispy apples pair wonderfully with oatmeal, yogurt, or even pancakes for a breakfast treat that doubles as dessert. They’re perfect alongside vanilla ice cream or a slice of warm pound cake when served as a dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cinnamon apples over a bed of granola for a crunchy breakfast bowl or use them as a filling inside warm crepes. Another fun idea is layering them with cream cheese in a parfait glass for a visually stunning and delicious treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, although they’re best enjoyed fresh to keep that crisp texture intact.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not recommended for maintaining the crispiness of this Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe. The texture can become mushy upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerate for short-term storage.
Reheating
To revive the crispy texture, reheat the apples in the air fryer or a warm oven at 350°F for a few minutes. This method helps crisp them back up, preserving the delicious caramelized finish without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
You can use most apples, but firmer varieties like Braeburn, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp work the best because they hold their shape and crisp up nicely during air frying.
Is this recipe suitable for a sugar-free diet?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the maple syrup for a sugar-free sweetener of your choice, like stevia or erythritol, to keep it sweet without extra sugar.
Do I really need to shake the apples halfway through cooking?
Yes, shaking the apples promotes even cooking and helps all sides caramelize and crisp evenly, which is essential for that signature texture.
Can I skip the butter or oil?
You can, but adding a small amount of oil or melted butter enhances the texture and adds richness, making the apples even more deliciously crispy and caramelized.
How long can I keep the cooked apples?
For the best taste and texture, enjoy them within 2 days of cooking when stored in the fridge. Over time, they will soften and lose their crispiness.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe. It’s an effortless way to make a healthy, sweet snack that feels indulgent but is totally grounded in simple, wholesome ingredients. Next time you want a warm treat that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is your go-to. Give it a try—I promise it’ll become one of your favorite little comforts!
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 2.2 servings 1x
Description
These Air Fryer Apples are a quick and easy snack or dessert made by tossing chopped apples with cinnamon and sweetener, then air frying them to a perfect crispy and caramelized finish. A healthy and flavorful option that highlights the natural sweetness and texture of fresh apples with minimal added ingredients.
Ingredients
Apples
- 2 large apples (such as Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp)
Seasoning
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
Optional
- 2 tsp oil or butter (optional for richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Air Fryer Tray: Grease the air fryer tray or line it with air fryer liners to prevent sticking. If desired, peel the apples before chopping them into small squares or sticks for even cooking.
- Toss the Apples: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples with cinnamon, maple syrup, and the optional melted butter or oil. Ensure the apples are evenly coated for a balanced flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure the apples cook evenly and crisp up well.
- Arrange the Apples: Spread the coated apples in a single layer on the prepped air fryer tray. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the apples in two batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Initial Air Fry: Cook the apples for 7 minutes. Then carefully shake or stir the apples in the basket or tray to promote even caramelization and cooking on all sides.
- Finish Cooking: Continue air frying for an additional 8 minutes, or until the apples become crispy on the outside and nicely caramelized, with a tender interior.
Notes
- Peeling the apples is optional; leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- You can substitute the maple syrup with honey, agave, or your preferred sweetener.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with cinnamon for a warm spice variation.
- Serve warm as a snack, dessert topping, or alongside yogurt or oatmeal.
- If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to prevent steaming instead of crisping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
