Description
These Air Fryer Apples are a quick and delicious treat featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices with a touch of buttery sweetness. Perfect as a warm side dish, a delightful topping for ice cream, or simply enjoyed on their own. Ready in just 15 minutes, these apples offer a healthier, air-fried alternative to traditional fried apples, combining the crispness of fresh fruit with aromatic cinnamon and vanilla flavors.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 small/medium apples (Gala recommended)
Seasoning and Flavor
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Fat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon canola oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Remove the cores from the apples and slice them into ½ inch thick slices. Choose whether to keep the peel or remove it based on preference. Then, in a large bowl, toss the apple slices with canola oil, vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to evenly coat.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to preheat fully before cooking the apples to ensure even, optimal cooking.
- Arrange and cook apples: Lightly spritz the air fryer basket with oil if desired (optional) to prevent sticking. Place the apple slices evenly in the basket, being careful to avoid overlapping as much as possible. Air fry the apples for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through (around 5 minutes) to facilitate even cooking and browning.
- Toss with butter and sugar: Once the apples are tender and cooked through, transfer them to a bowl. Immediately toss the warm apple slices with the melted butter, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and sugar to enhance the flavor and create a subtle glaze.
- Serve and store: Serve the apples immediately while warm as a side dish, dessert topping, or snack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
- Slice apples just before cooking to prevent browning and maintain fresh appearance and flavor.
- Choose firm, sweet apple varieties such as Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for the best texture and taste.
- For saucier apples, increase melted butter by about 2 tablespoons or substitute sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup for added moisture and sweetness.
- Monitor the air fryer closely after shaking the basket at the midpoint, checking every 2 minutes to prevent overcooking or burning, as air fryers vary in heat intensity.
