Baked apples are a delicious and wholesome treat that evokes the cozy feeling of autumn and heartwarming family gatherings. Traditionally prepared in an oven, these can now be made effortlessly in an air fryer, cutting down on time while still retaining that delightful taste and texture.
This recipe leverages the efficiency of the air fryer to create a delectable dessert or snack in a jiffy. The blend of spices, the softness of the baked apple, and the crunch of the toppings make this dish a must-try for all apple lovers.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Efficiency and Consistency: The magic of the air fryer lies in its ability to circulate hot air evenly, ensuring that the apples are cooked to perfection every single time. Unlike conventional ovens, where you might find uneven cooking or have to rotate dishes for consistency, the air fryer makes the process seamless. This recipe, in particular, optimizes the air fryer's strengths, resulting in apples that are soft and tender on the inside while maintaining a slight crunch on the outside.
Health and Flavor: Baking apples in an air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also eliminates the need for excessive oils or fats, making it a healthier alternative to fried or sautéed versions. The natural sweetness of the apples, combined with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a symphony of flavors without the guilt of added sugars. The toppings, which can be as simple as nuts or as decadent as caramel sauce, add an extra layer of texture and taste, making this dish versatile for various palates and occasions.
Ingredients
Apples - Choose firm and crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Substitute: Any baking apple will work.
Brown Sugar - This adds sweetness and a caramelized flavor. Substitute: Maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Cinnamon - Gives a warm and aromatic spice flavor. Substitute: Nutmeg or apple pie spice.
Butter - Adds richness and helps in caramelization. Substitute: Coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Oats - Gives a crunchy texture contrasting the soft baked apples. Substitute: Crushed graham crackers or granola.
Tips
- Use apples of a similar size for even cooking.
- Core the apples but leave the bottom intact to create a small "bowl" for your filling.
- Adjust sweetness based on your preference and the apple variety.
- Always preheat the air fryer for best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space for hot air circulation.
How to Serve
Baked apples are a delightful dessert that brings warmth, fragrance, and sweetness to any meal. They are perfect on their own, but enhancing them with some toppings or sides can elevate the dish to a new level.
- With a Dollop of Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream perfectly complements the warm apples.
- Nutty Sprinkle: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a crunchy twist to the soft baked apples.
- Drizzle: Enhance the flavors with a drizzle of caramel sauce or honey.
Similar Recipes
Apple Pie With Graham Cracker Crust
Air Fryer Baked Apples
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
- 3 tablespoons oats
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Core each apple without cutting through the bottom.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and oats until well combined.
- Stuff each apple with the mixture.
- Place the stuffed apples in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the apples are soft and the filling is golden brown.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use apples of a similar size for even cooking.
- Core the apples but leave the bottom intact to create a small "bowl" for your filling.
- Adjust sweetness based on your preference and the apple variety.
- Always preheat the air fryer for best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space for hot air circulation.