Air Fryer Apples

Craving something warm, cozy, and sweet—but don’t want to derail your healthy eating goals? These Air Fryer Apples are your answer. Lightly glazed with maple syrup, dusted in cinnamon, and air-fried to golden perfection, this dessert is a naturally sweet and guilt-free comfort food you can enjoy any day of the week.

I first started making this recipe during the cooler months when I was craving apple pie but didn’t want the effort or calories. One bite of these tender, slightly caramelized apple cubes, and I was hooked. They taste like the gooey center of an apple pie—only without the crust, butter, or refined sugar. And thanks to the air fryer, they’re ready in just 15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Apples

• Quick & easy: Just 15 minutes from start to finish
• Naturally sweet: Made with real maple syrup and no refined sugar
• Healthy dessert: Vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly
• Versatile: Perfect with ice cream, pancakes, oatmeal, or on their own
• Minimal ingredients: Just apples, cinnamon, maple syrup, and coconut oil

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 2 red apples (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Gala), peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp real maple syrup, divided
• 1 tbsp melted coconut oil (refined for neutral flavor)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Add-Ons:

• A pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for extra warmth
• Chopped nuts for crunch
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or scoop of vanilla ice cream for serving

Equipment You’ll Need

• Air fryer (basket style or oven-style)
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces similar in size to ensure even cooking.

2. Season

In a medium bowl, toss the apple cubes with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir until all pieces are evenly coated.

3. Preheat & Load the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Lightly spray the basket with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place the apple cubes into the basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.

4. Air Fry

Air fry for 10–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The apples should be golden brown, tender inside, and slightly crisp at the edges when done.

5. Finish & Serve

Remove the apples and toss them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of maple syrup while still warm. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon-glazed apples are incredibly versatile. Here’s how you can enjoy them:

• With a scoop of dairy-free or regular vanilla ice cream
• On top of oatmeal or overnight oats
• Layered into yogurt parfaits
• As a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast
• Mixed into chia pudding or smoothie bowls
• On their own—warm, sweet, and spoonable!

Tips and Variations

• Choose the right apples: Sweet-tart apples like Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Gala hold their shape well and provide a great flavor balance.
• Don’t skip the oil: Coconut oil helps crisp the edges and gives that golden caramelized finish.
• Add crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a little texture.
• Craving pie vibes? Sprinkle on a little pumpkin pie spice or drizzle with almond butter.

Health Benefits

This simple dish packs in more nutrients than you’d expect from dessert:

• Apples offer fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
• Maple syrup is a more natural sweetener compared to refined sugars
• Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and blood-sugar regulating properties
• Coconut oil adds healthy fats and helps with absorption of nutrients

And since it’s gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free, it fits into a wide range of dietary lifestyles—including paleo and clean eating.

Storage & Reheating

Store:
Let the apples cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat:
Warm in the microwave for 30–40 seconds or pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use unpeeled apples?

Yes! Keeping the skin on adds fiber and color. Just be sure to scrub them clean and adjust cook time slightly depending on thickness.

Can I make this with green apples?

Absolutely. Granny Smith apples offer a tangier contrast to the maple and cinnamon. You may want to add a bit more syrup to balance the tartness.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

You can substitute melted butter or avocado oil. Just choose a neutral-tasting fat so it doesn’t overpower the dish.

Can I batch cook these?

Yes, just make sure you cook in batches so the apples stay in a single layer. Overcrowding leads to soggy results.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Apples are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. In just 15 minutes, you can create a cozy, satisfying dessert that checks every box: flavorful, fast, and good for you. Whether you’re serving them to guests, kids, or just treating yourself to a guilt-free snack, these apples deliver comfort and nostalgia with a wholesome twist.

In my kitchen, these have become a seasonal favorite—and honestly, they’re too good to limit to fall. I whip them up year-round as a topping, a snack, or an after-dinner indulgence. Trust me: once you try them, you’ll find endless ways to use them.

The Goods