Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, sweet treat that feels both indulgent and fresh, this Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite snack. It’s a perfect balance of tender, cinnamony apples with a crisp edge, paired with a luscious swirl of caramel-infused whipped cream that makes every bite glow with comfort and joy. Whether it’s a quick dessert after dinner or a special afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe brings warmth and delight in every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious dish, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in bringing out vibrant flavors and textures. From the natural sweetness of Gala apples to the rich creaminess of caramel whipped cream, every element is essential to create that perfect harmony of taste and color.

• 2 medium Gala apples: Naturally sweet and tender, these apples hold their shape beautifully when air fried.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the apples): Adds warmth and a subtle spice that complements the apples perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cinnamon and sugar stick while adding a rich, buttery flavor.
• 3 tablespoons sugar (for coating): Sweetens the apple wedges and caramelizes during air frying for a crisp finish.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating): Mixed with sugar, it creates a fragrant, crunchy coating on the apple wedges.
• 4 oz whipped cream: Light and airy, perfect for folding with caramel to make a dreamy dipping sauce.
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce: Brings indulgent sweetness and a luscious caramel depth to the whipped cream.

How to Make Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling your Gala apples to remove the skin’s slight tartness. Then, carefully remove the cores and slice the apples into wedges about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness is just right to ensure they cook evenly and get a tender yet crisp texture in the air fryer.

Step 2: Coat the Apple Wedges

Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the apple wedges, then sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Gently toss everything together—this careful coating enhances both flavor and the golden color your wedges will develop while cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Get your air fryer ready by preheating it to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. A hot air fryer ensures a quick cooking time and that perfect crisp edge on each apple wedge.

Step 4: Air Fry the Apples

Place the coated apple wedges in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, watching for a tender texture and edges that start to caramelize and crisp up delightfully.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

While the apples are in the fryer, stir together the sugar and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will give your apple wedges that signature sweet crunch right after frying.

Step 6: Toss in Cinnamon-Sugar

Once the apples come out warm and fragrant, immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat each wedge evenly. This final step adds flavor and texture that make the dish irresistibly good.

Step 7: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a separate bowl, gently fold the luscious caramel sauce into your whipped cream. Do this slowly to keep the whipped cream light and fluffy while infusing it with that rich caramel sweetness.

Step 8: Chill the Dipping Sauce

Pop the caramel whipped cream into the fridge for about 10 minutes. This chilling step helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes the sauce deliciously cool and creamy to contrast the warm apples.

Step 9: Serve

Arrange the warm apple wedges on a beautiful serving plate and place a bowl of the caramel whipped cream dipping sauce alongside. Get ready to dive into this delightful combination that’s sure to brighten your day.

How to Serve Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon or finely chopped toasted pecans over the apple wedges for added crunch and aroma. A tiny drizzle of extra caramel on top adds a shiny, irresistible finish that invites you to take that first bite.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines beautifully on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a warm cup of chai tea to enhance those cozy fall vibes. A light green salad with tangy vinaigrette balances out the sweetness if you want a more rounded snack or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these wedges in small mason jars with layers of granola and caramel whipped cream for a charming parfait twist. Or, lay them out on a rustic wooden board next to sprigs of fresh mint and a ramekin of dipping sauce for a stylish and shareable dessert platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover air fried apple wedges, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They may soften slightly but will still be delicious when gently reheated.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for maintaining the crisp texture of these apple wedges, you can freeze the caramel whipped cream dipping sauce separately in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw it in the fridge and give it a quick whisk before serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftover apple wedges briefly in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes to restore some crispness without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Gala apples provide a nice balance of sweetness and tenderness, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for variations in tartness and texture. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended to create a smooth, tender bite, but if you prefer more texture and nutrients, leaving the peel on works fine. Just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly before slicing.

Can I make the caramel whipped cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the caramel whipped cream dipping sauce a few hours ahead and keep it chilled. Just give it a gentle whisk before serving to refresh its texture if needed.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can bake the apple wedges in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, turning once halfway through, until tender and golden.

How can I make the dipping sauce less sweet?

Reduce the amount of caramel sauce mixed into the whipped cream or use unsweetened whipped cream as a base. You can also add a tiny pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Making these Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe is such a joy, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas and offering a treat that’s both wholesome and indulgent. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own comfort snack or dessert that brings warmth and smiles to every table.

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