Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples bring the nostalgic aroma of baked apples to your kitchen in a fraction of the time. Lightly crisped on the outside and tender on the inside, these slices are infused with warm cinnamon, a hint of vanilla, and just enough maple syrup to feel like a treat—without the sugar crash.
Whether you enjoy them on their own, layered over morning oatmeal, or as a refined-sugar-free dessert, these apples are as versatile as they are satisfying. With no complicated prep or cooking techniques, this recipe is ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or anytime you’re craving something naturally sweet and cozy.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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3 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), cored and sliced
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1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or butter
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1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of sea salt
Directions:
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
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In a medium bowl, combine apple slices, melted coconut oil or butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Toss until the apple slices are fully coated.
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Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
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Air fry the apples for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
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Once the apples are golden and slightly crisp at the edges, remove them and let them cool for 2 minutes.
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Serve warm as a snack, dessert, or topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 17 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 3 servings
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples: A Naturally Sweet and Simple Treat
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and warm apples wafting through the kitchen. It evokes memories of fall evenings, family gatherings, and cozy desserts by the fireplace. But what if you could get all of that goodness—without turning on the oven, using tons of sugar, or spending a lot of time in the kitchen? That’s where Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples come in.
This recipe takes a classic combination and gives it a fresh, healthy twist by using the air fryer, a popular kitchen gadget known for its ability to make foods crispy and delicious with little to no oil. These air-fried apples are tender on the inside with just a hint of crispness around the edges. They’re naturally sweet, thanks to the apples themselves and a touch of maple syrup or honey, and spiced with cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
One of the best parts of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy tools or specialty ingredients—just a few pantry staples and some fresh apples. The result is a comforting dish that feels indulgent but is actually quite wholesome.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy these apples on their own as a quick snack, as a healthier dessert option, or even for breakfast. Add them to oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or waffles for an extra layer of flavor. They also make a fantastic topping for vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling a little more decadent.
Additionally, these air fryer apples are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made vegan. That makes them a great option for households with various dietary needs or preferences. Whether you’re eating clean, avoiding refined sugar, or just trying to get more fruit into your day, this recipe delivers.
Choosing the Right Apples
The type of apples you use plays a big role in the final taste and texture of the dish. For best results, go with a variety that holds up well to cooking and has a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples are all excellent choices. They’re naturally sweet, have a firm texture, and don’t turn mushy when cooked. If you prefer a tarter flavor, you could opt for Granny Smith apples—just know you may want to add a little extra sweetness to balance their boldness.
Whatever variety you choose, make sure the apples are fresh and firm. Soft or mealy apples won’t hold up well in the air fryer and may become too mushy during cooking.
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Apples
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples are not only delicious, but they also come with a host of health benefits.
Apples are a fantastic source of fiber, particularly pectin, which supports healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. They’re also rich in vitamin C and various antioxidants that support immune health and reduce inflammation. Cinnamon, on the other hand, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar.
When you prepare this dish in an air fryer, you significantly reduce the amount of oil needed—compared to traditional pan-fried or baked apple recipes. This keeps the calorie count low while still delivering flavor and satisfaction. By using maple syrup or honey as a sweetener, you’re also avoiding processed sugars, which makes this an ideal recipe for those focused on clean eating or maintaining a more balanced diet.
How to Use Air Fryer Apples
This dish is a prime example of a recipe that can be adapted to suit any part of your day. Here are a few ideas for how you can enjoy your air fryer apples:
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Breakfast: Add a handful of warm apple slices to your oatmeal or breakfast bowl. They pair beautifully with granola, Greek yogurt, and a drizzle of nut butter.
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Snack: Pack these into a container for a wholesome snack at work or on the go. They’re satisfying and naturally energizing.
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Dessert: Serve the apples warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture.
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Topping: Use them to elevate pancakes, waffles, or French toast. The cinnamon-apple combo adds depth and flavor that feels gourmet.
Tips for the Best Results
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples come out perfectly every time:
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Don’t overcrowd the basket. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer for even cooking. If needed, cook in batches to ensure crispness.
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Shake the basket halfway through. This helps cook the slices more evenly and prevents sticking.
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Adjust sweetness to taste. If you’re using very sweet apples like Fuji or Gala, you may want to use less maple syrup. If you’re using tarter apples, like Granny Smith, a bit more sweetener can balance the flavor.
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Add a finishing touch. For extra flair, sprinkle the apples with chopped pecans or walnuts right before serving. A tiny dusting of powdered sugar can also enhance the visual appeal for dessert plating.
Why This Recipe Is a Crowd Favorite
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples are one of those recipes that appeal to everyone—kids, adults, picky eaters, and health-conscious folks alike. They’re easy to make, quick to clean up, and the ingredients are affordable and easy to find year-round.
Another reason this recipe is a favorite? It’s highly adaptable. You can tweak the spices, try different apple varieties, or adjust the cooking time slightly based on your desired texture. Whether you like them crisp-tender or soft and caramelized, this recipe has room for personal flair.
They also make an excellent addition to seasonal menus—perfect for fall, holidays, or any time you want something that tastes nostalgic without the heavy calories of a traditional apple pie or cobbler.
Make It Your Own
This dish is a great foundation to experiment with. Here are a few variations you might try:
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Add chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add crunch and richness.
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Sprinkle with oats: Turn your apples into a deconstructed crisp by sprinkling lightly toasted oats and cinnamon on top.
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Add a dash of cardamom or ginger: These spices pair well with apple and cinnamon and give a unique twist.
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Try it savory: Add a small pinch of chili powder and sea salt for a sweet-and-savory option that works well as a side dish.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples store well in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the microwave or return them to the air fryer for a couple of minutes to revive their texture.
They’re perfect to make ahead for breakfast meal prep or to keep on hand when you need a satisfying snack or dessert that won’t derail your healthy habits. They also freeze well, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing—still delicious, but a little softer.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples prove that you don’t need a long list of ingredients, a fancy oven, or tons of time to enjoy a comforting, health-conscious treat. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, this recipe delivers maximum flavor in a simple and satisfying way.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dessert, topping your oatmeal in the morning, or searching for a guilt-free snack, these air-fried apples fit the bill. Their versatility, health benefits, and crowd-pleasing flavor make them a recipe worth bookmarking—and making again and again.
So if you’re looking to fill your kitchen with the scent of warm cinnamon and sweet apples, skip the pie and fire up your air fryer instead. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so satisfying.