If you love the cozy smell of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of baked fruit, then you are absolutely going to adore this Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe. This dish brings together tender, juicy apple slices caramelized with brown sugar and warm cinnamon, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a quick and delightful treat. It’s a perfect blend of comforting autumn flavors with a fresh, healthy twist that’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a go-to snack or dessert any time you crave something sweet yet wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each element enhances the apples, turning them into a luscious treat that bursts with warmth and sweetness.
- Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture; they hold up well during cooking without becoming mushy.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the apples for that irresistible caramelized flavor.
- Brown sugar: Gives a deep, molasses sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples beautifully.
- Cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and a bit of spice to the dish.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle floral note that enhances the overall flavor complexity.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the apples
Start by washing and slicing your apples into half-inch thick pieces, discarding the core completely. The thickness is important to ensure the apples cook evenly without falling apart.
Step 2: Mix the cinnamon coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until it’s warm and smooth. Then stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until everything is combined. This mixture will coat your apples with a delicious, sweet spice blend.
Step 3: Coat the apple slices
Add the sliced apples to the cinnamon butter mixture and toss gently until every slice is fully coated. This step is key to making sure each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Air fry the apples
Place the coated apple slices evenly in your air fryer basket. If your air fryer basket tends to stick, a light brush of oil can help. Cook at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Begin checking around 8 minutes to ensure your apples reach your desired softness and caramelization.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream can add a lovely textural contrast and richness to your Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe. Fresh mint leaves also brighten up the dish visually and provide a fresh flavor balance.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon apples pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy complement. They also shine alongside warm pancakes or French toast for a perfectly sweet breakfast boost.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cinnamon apples atop oatmeal or inside a warm crepe for a delightful twist. You can also spoon them over a slice of buttered toast or swirl them into a parfait layered with granola and creamy elements for a beautiful and tasty presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their softness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked apples by spreading them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and lets you thaw just as many as you need. They’re best used within a month to keep their fresh flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your cinnamon apples in the air fryer or microwave. The air fryer for a few minutes can help restore crispness and warmth, while the microwave is a quick option if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up best, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties. Just keep the thickness consistent to ensure even cooking.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. The peel adds extra texture and nutrients, but if you prefer a smoother bite, peeling can make the apples even softer.
Is it necessary to use melted butter?
Yes, melting the butter helps it evenly coat the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, creating a delicious, sticky glaze that clings perfectly to the apples.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
While the air fryer makes it incredibly quick and easy, you can replicate the recipe by baking in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
How do I prevent the apples from sticking to the air fryer basket?
If your air fryer basket tends to stick, a light brush or spray of oil before adding the apples will help. Also, tossing the apples well in the butter mixture enhances moisture and reduces sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe is one of those charming little delights that can brighten any day with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack, a toppings upgrade, or a cozy dessert, this recipe delivers warm, caramelized flavor wrapped in tender apples. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen as it has in mine!
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Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the warm, sweet flavors of Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples, a quick and easy dessert or snack made by coating fresh apple slices with a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture and air frying them to tender perfection. This recipe is perfect for a comforting treat that requires minimal prep and cooks in just minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large Apples or 3 small, sliced ½ inch thick, core discarded
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Cut the apples into slices about ½ inch thick, making sure to discard the core to avoid tough or inedible parts.
- Melt the butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter using the microwave or alternatively on the stovetop until fully liquefied.
- Mix the cinnamon sugar sauce: Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the melted butter and stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a smooth cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Coat the apple slices: Add the sliced apples into the cinnamon sugar mixture and stir gently to ensure each slice is evenly coated with the flavorful blend.
- Air fry the apples: Place the coated apple slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 380°F (approximately 193°C) for 10 minutes, checking around the 8-minute mark to prevent overcooking based on your air fryer and apple thickness.
- Serve: Once cooked until tender and slightly caramelized, remove the apples from the air fryer and serve warm as a snack or dessert.
Notes
- Ensure all the apples are evenly coated in the cinnamon sugar mixture for balanced flavor.
- If your air fryer basket tends to stick, lightly brush or spray it with oil before adding the apples.
- Air fryer models vary, so monitor the apples during cooking, especially around 8 minutes, to achieve your preferred texture.
- Optionally peel the apples before slicing if you prefer a softer texture without skin.
