Air fryer apple crisp was one of those cozy desserts I thought needed the oven, until my first attempt turned out uneven, with mushy apples and a pale topping. I wanted that soft, spiced filling with a golden crunch. After testing this three ways, I discovered that pre-softening the apples and layering the topping loosely made all the difference. Then I cracked the code with a slightly higher finishing temperature. Now it comes out perfectly tender underneath with a crisp, buttery topping every time.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp – Warm & Crunchy in 15 Minutes
Tender cinnamon apples topped with a buttery, crunchy crisp, made quickly in the air fryer for the perfect cozy dessert.
Equipment
- Air fryer (5–6 quart recommended)
- Small baking dish or air fryer-safe ramekins
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 3 cups apples peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold butter cubed
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Mix until apples are evenly coated.
- Place apple mixture into an air fryer-safe dish or ramekins.
- In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add cold butter cubes.
- Use fingers or a fork to crumble until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle topping loosely over apples without pressing down.
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (177°C).
- Air fry for 10 minutes until apples begin to soften.
- Increase temperature to 380°F (193°C).
- Cook for another 4–5 minutes until topping is golden and crisp.
- Remove carefully and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary, so check topping early to prevent burning.
- Use ramekins for best even cooking and structure.
- Do not pack topping too tightly—this helps it crisp properly.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 4–5 minutes until warm and crisp again.
- Add chopped nuts or caramel drizzle for extra texture and flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 4gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
CONCLUSION
This air fryer apple crisp is one of those desserts I turn to when I want something warm and comforting without the wait. That tender apple base with the crisp topping always feels just right, especially fresh out of the air fryer.