Baked Apples in the Air Fryer: Quick and Easy Apple Dessert

Prepare for an effortless air fryer dessert, perfect for any sweet tooth! Today, we’re diving into the world of easy-baked apples made right in the air fryer. Healthy, scrumptious, and perfect for any occasion.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you’re hunting for a speedy dessert, look no further! These easy baked apples are a go-to treat not just reserved for the fall season—they’re a year-round delight.

Lately, I’ve been captivated by the air fryer’s versatility. It’s become a kitchen favorite, pulling double duty for cooking and dehydrating. It’s like having an additional oven in the house and frees up space in your regular oven.

Air fryer apples bring out their natural sweetness and flavors, infusing your kitchen with a delightful aroma that embodies warmth and coziness. The baking process caramelizes the sugars in the apples, elevating their taste for a delicious treat.

Now, let’s make these easy-baked apples. 

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Simple Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Dessert

• 3 Large Fuji apples (you can also use Granny Smith apples, pink lady apples, or your favorite apples).  
• 1/4 tsp. Ground cinnamon 
• 1/8 tsp. Ground cardamom
• 1 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. Unsalted butter, cut into six pieces. 
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/2 cup of crushed gingersnaps 
• 1/2  cup of pecans finely chopped 
• 1-2 Tbsp. Brown sugar 
• 1 Tbsp. Maple syrup
• Whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream

Supplies Needed 

• Small bowl 
• Apple corer or melon baller 
• Airtight container to store your apples 
• Paring knife 
• Air Fryer

Easy Steps For Baking Air-Fried Apples 

How Do you Prepare Apples for Baking?

• Wash the fresh apples.
•  Cut the apples in half vertically.

• Scoop out the core using a melon baller or apple corer.
• Place the apple halves in the air fryer basket in a single layer. (If you are using a toaster oven-style air fryer, place apples in a baking dish).

• Sprinkle the cinnamon and cardamom on top of the apples. 
• Drizzle the honey on each apple half.
• Place a small pat of butter on each apple half.

• Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees for 5 minutes.
• Pour the 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the air fryer’s basket. (if you are using a baking dish, pour the water directly into the dish).
• Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until you have softer apples. 

Prepare the Crumble Topping

• Melt the remaining butter.
• Add the melted butter to the crushed gingersnaps, pecans, and brown sugar and mix well. 

• Fill the centers of the apples with the crumble mixture. 
• Drizzle with the 1 Tbsp. of maple syrup. 
• Place the oven-baked apples back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown. 

How to Serve Baked Apples

I like to serve these apples right out of the oven while they are warm.

They can be served plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

FAQ’s

Do I need to cook apples before baking?

Whether you should precook apples before baking varies by recipe:

1. Faster Baking: Some recipes suggest briefly precooking apples to shorten baking time and soften them before using them in the oven. However, this is not necessary in the air fryer.
2. Flavor Enhancement: Cooking apples with spices or sugars beforehand can intensify their taste, especially in complex recipes.
3. Specific Dishes: Recipes like apple pie fillings might require stovetop cooking to achieve the desired texture or consistency.

Should you soak apples before baking?

Soaking apples before baking is optional but can benefit your recipe:

1. Prevent Browning: Soak apples in water and lemon juice to stop browning, ideal for prepping in advance to maintain freshness.
2. Enhance Flavor: Soaking apples in liquids like apple juice or flavored syrup infuses extra taste, elevating the overall flavor of the baked apples.

Should you peel apples before baking?

Whether to peel apples before baking is a personal choice.

Peeled Apples: Result in a softer texture and a more uniform appearance in baked goods like pies. Preferred if you want a smoother filling or a refined look.

Unpeeled Apples: Add texture, nutrients, and color to baked dishes like crisps or crumbles. Convenient and add a bit of tartness. You should consider leaving skins on unless their texture significantly impacts the recipe or personal preference dictates otherwise.

Utilizing the air fryer to bake apples offers a quick, effortless way to enjoy a wholesome and delightful treat. With its ease of use and delicious outcome, this method ensures a fuss-free and flavorful experience that perfectly complements any occasion or craving for a comforting dessert.

Wishing you all a beautiful Thanksgiving!