These Air Fryer Baked Apples deliver a cozy, fall-inspired dessert in just 15 minutes. After testing multiple recipes, I’ve found the method that creates tender apples with a crisp oat topping every time. They’re perfect on their own or served warm with ice cream for a treat that tastes like apple pie without the effort.
Perfect Air Fryer Baked Apples Recipe
Air fryer baked apples are the ultimate easy dessert. By halving apples and filling them with a simple cinnamon-oat mixture, you get all the flavors of apple crisp or pie in a fraction of the time. This recipe works because the air fryer’s even heat softens the apples while crisping the topping, giving you that irresistible contrast of tender fruit and crunchy topping.
Ingredients
- 2 apples (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith recommended)
- 1 teaspoon butter, melted (or vegan butter/coconut oil)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Topping
- ⅓ cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey/brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon flour (all-purpose, almond flour, or oat flour)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Notes:
- Firm apples work best to avoid mushiness.
- Use almond flour and gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
- Swap in nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice for variation.
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.
- Slice apples in half through the stem. Remove the core, stem, and seeds with a spoon or knife.
- Brush the cut sides with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Mix oats, butter, maple syrup, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Spoon the topping evenly over each apple half, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Place apples in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the topping is golden.
- Serve warm as is, or add ice cream, whipped cream, or a caramel drizzle.
Air Fryer Baked Apples
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Paring knife
- Spoon for coring
- Small mixing bowl
Ingredients
2 apples (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith)
1 tsp butter, melted
½ tsp cinnamon
Topping:
⅓ cup rolled oats
1 tbsp butter, melted
1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey/brown sugar)
1 tsp flour (all-purpose or almond flour)
½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.
Halve apples, remove cores, and brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Combine oats, butter, maple syrup, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Spoon over apple halves.
Place in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15 minutes until tender and topping is golden.
Serve warm with ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.
Notes
- Best with firm apple varieties to prevent mushiness.
- For vegan version: use coconut oil or plant-based butter.
- Gluten-free: use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour.
- Storage: refrigerate up to 2 days, freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheating: 320°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes fresh, 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes frozen.
Nutrition
Air Fryer Settings & Tips for Baked Apples
Temperature & Timing Guide
- Standard size apples: 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes.
- Larger/thicker apples: add 2–3 minutes.
- Sliced apples: 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes.
- Oven alternative: 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes.
Apples are done when a fork easily pierces the flesh but they still hold their shape.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Always use firm apple varieties like Pink Lady, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp.
- Press topping into the apple halves to prevent it from falling off.
- Add a splash of water to the basket if apples look dry.
- Avoid cooking sprays—use an oil mister to protect your air fryer’s coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space for air circulation.
Serving & Storage for Air Fryer Baked Apples
Best Pairings
- Vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream
- Homemade whipped cream
- Warm caramel drizzle
- Chopped nuts or raisins for texture
Perfect Side Dishes
- Pair with Air Fryer Apple Crisps for a fall dessert platter.
- Serve alongside pancakes or French toast for brunch.
- Complement with roasted nuts for a cozy snack.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze baked apples on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes (fresh) or 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes (frozen).
Conclusion
This air fryer method turns simple apples into a dessert that tastes like a mix of apple pie and oatmeal cookies. With only pantry staples and 15 minutes, you’ll have a treat that’s warm, spiced, and family-approved—no complicated prep required.