If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that’s bursting with warm spices and naturally sweet flavors, this Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, juicy apples filled with a fragrant mix of nuts, dried fruit, and cinnamon caramelizing beautifully inside your air fryer, making the kitchen smell like autumn all year round. It’s an effortless way to turn simple ingredients into a dessert that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a comforting treat after dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma in this Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe.
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala): Choose firm apples that hold their shape well to keep the balance between softness and structure after baking.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: These add a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
- 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries: They bring a chewy texture and a burst of natural sweetness that complements the spices.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar: This adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that helps the filling become deliciously gooey.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic warming spice that infuses the dish with that signature cozy flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg adds subtle complexity and enhances the cinnamon’s warmth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This elevates the filling with a sweet, aromatic note that makes the dessert feel extra special.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil: Provides moisture and richness, helping the filling caramelize beautifully.
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt: For serving, adding creaminess and a temperature contrast that takes this dessert over the top.
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and ready. Preheating ensures the apples cook evenly and the filling caramelizes perfectly without undercooking or drying out.
Step 2: Core the apples
Carefully remove the core from each apple but leave the bottom intact so the delicious filling stays inside while it bakes. This step keeps your apples from collapsing and holds all that wonderful mixture in place.
Step 3: Prepare the filling
Combine your chopped nuts, raisins or cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir everything together until well mixed — this blend is what transforms those simple apples into something magical with every bite.
Step 4: Stuff the apples
Fill each hollowed-out apple with the spiced mixture. Press it down gently so you get a generous amount in every one but the filling stays compact and doesn’t spill out during cooking.
Step 5: Arrange apples in the air fryer
Place each stuffed apple upright in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. This spacing helps the hot air circulate around the apples, cooking them evenly and giving the filling a beautifully caramelized top.
Step 6: Cook until tender and bubbly
Air fry the apples for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the apples are soft to the touch, and the filling is bubbling and golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overcook or burn.
Step 7: Let cool and serve
Carefully remove the apples from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. This rest time lets the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle. Serve as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or add a handful of toasted nuts for extra crunch right before serving. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add a lovely glossy finish and boost sweetness without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
Side Dishes
This delightful dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, especially on a chilly day. For a more substantial dessert, serve alongside creamy vanilla ice cream or tangy Greek yogurt to balance the warm spices and sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, plate each baked apple on a small dessert dish with a spoonful of whipped cream or mascarpone. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a few whole berries to add color and freshness. You can also slice the apples after baking and layer them with granola or yogurt for an impressive parfait-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They remain moist and flavorful, making them a perfect treat to enjoy later in the week or as a quick snack.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked apples if you want to keep them longer. Wrap each apple individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 325°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to revive that fresh-baked warmth and maintain tenderness. Alternatively, warming them in the microwave works if you’re in a hurry, but the air fryer will keep the texture closer to freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala are great choices, you can experiment with other firmer apples like Pink Lady or Granny Smith. Just keep in mind Granny Smith will be more tart, which can offer a nice contrast to the sweet filling.
Is it necessary to leave the bottom of the apple intact?
Yes, leaving the bottom intact keeps the filling inside while cooking. If you cut all the way through, the filling will leak out, and the apple might collapse during air frying.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut sugar for a completely plant-based version. Just make sure any optional toppings like yogurt or ice cream are vegan-friendly as well.
How do I ensure the apples cook evenly in the air fryer?
Make sure to leave space between each apple in the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate. Preheating the air fryer also helps cook apples evenly, preventing sogginess or undercooked spots.
What other fillings can I try for this recipe?
Feel free to customize the filling with chopped dried apricots, dates, or even a sprinkle of granola for added texture. Experimenting with spices like ginger or cloves can also give the recipe a fun twist tailored to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe is simply one of those feel-good, simple desserts that make everything feel a little cozier. It’s quick, uses wholesome ingredients, and delivers warm, comforting flavors that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own, whether as a weeknight treat or a special occasion dessert. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully warm and tender Air Fryer Baked Apples stuffed with a sweet and spiced filling of nuts, dried fruits, and brown sugar. This quick and easy dessert offers a perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla with a caramelized topping, ideal for a cozy treat served with optional vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
Filling
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
Optional Serving
- Vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for cooking the apples evenly.
- Core Apples: Carefully core the apples, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the filling stays inside during cooking.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the chopped nuts, raisins or dried cranberries, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until all ingredients are well combined.
- Stuff Apples: Fill each hollowed apple with the prepared filling mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure the stuffing is packed in well.
- Place in Air Fryer: Set the stuffed apples upright in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch each other to allow for even heat circulation.
- Air Fry: Cook the apples in the preheated air fryer for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is bubbly and caramelized on top.
- Serve: Carefully remove the baked apples from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Optionally, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for an extra creamy touch.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for best results.
- Make sure to leave the bottom of the apples intact while coring to hold the filling.
- Monitor air fryer time as some models may cook faster or slower.
- For a vegan version, use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut sugar if preferred.
- Optional toppings such as vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt complement the warm apples perfectly.
