If you’re chasing a treat that’s cozy, quick, and endlessly snackable, look no further than Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples. These addictive little apple slices are sweet, a little bit buttery, and covered with the warm hug of cinnamon sugar—like apple pie without the fuss! They’re the best way to satisfy a sweet craving in just minutes, all with ingredients you likely have on hand right now.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 15 Minutes: From hungry to happy in literally a quarter of an hour—these apples are weeknight and snack-time heroes!
- Healthy(ish) Indulgence: You get all the cozy comfort of cinnamon sugar with fresh fruit and just a touch of added sweetness.
- No Mess, No Oven: The air fryer gets apples beautifully caramelized and tender without heating up your kitchen or dirtying a ton of dishes.
- Kid and Adult Approved: These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples vanish fast at breakfast, snacktime, or dessert—be ready with extra apples!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples so special isn’t a long list of fancy ingredients—it’s the way these classic, simple staples come together. Each adds a layer of flavor or texture that turns humble apples into something you’ll crave again and again.
- Apples (4 small/medium, Gala recommended): Sweet and crisp apples like Gala hold their shape and take on a caramelized edge in the air fryer.
- Cinnamon (1½ tsp, divided): This spice is the soul of this recipe—giving every bite that warm, nostalgic, apple-pie aroma.
- Canola oil (1 Tbsp): Helps the apples crisp a bit at the edges, while also sticking the cinnamon love right to them! Vegetable oil swaps in seamlessly.
- Vanilla (1 tsp): A splash of vanilla adds sweet warmth and a little extra bakery-style magic.
- Butter, melted (2 Tbsp): For gloss, richness, and that melt-in-your-mouth finish (do not skip this—it really makes it special!).
- Sugar (2 Tbsp): Just the right touch of sweetness to make the cinnamon sing and turn these apples into a treat.
Variations
There’s so much room to play with Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples. Whether you want to keep it classic, try something new, or work around dietary needs, this recipe is your playground for delicious ideas!
- Swap the Apples: Use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for a tarter twist, or mix varieties for complex flavor.
- Add Nuts: Toss the finished apples with a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Dairy-Free Option: Sub in melted coconut oil for the butter—still dreamy and totally plant-based.
- Up the Spice: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar or swap with coconut sugar or a zero-calorie sweetener for a lighter treat.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by removing the cores from your apples, then slice them into 1/2-inch wedges. You can totally leave the peels on for a homespun look and little boost of fiber, or peel for a softer, classic texture. Toss the slices right into a bowl with canola oil, vanilla, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon—the oil helps every wedge soak up maximum flavor!
Step 2: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (if your model heats up fast, a quick 2–3 minutes does the trick!). Spread the apple slices in a single layer in the basket—lightly spritz with oil if you want, but it’s honestly not required. Try not to overcrowd: the more space, the better the caramelization. Air fry for about 10 minutes, giving the basket a hearty shake halfway through so everything cooks super-evenly.
Step 3: Toss with Cinnamon Sugar Goodness
Once the apples are golden, tender, and smell absolutely irresistible, transfer them to a big bowl. Pour in the melted butter, sprinkle over the remaining cinnamon and all the sugar, and gently toss to coat every slice. Magic happens! Taste (careful—they’re hot!) and serve right away for maximum flavor and that irresistible, melty sugar finish.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples
- Apple Variety Matters: Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp all caramelize beautifully in the air fryer—choose crisp, sweet apples for the dreamiest texture!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give those apple slices some breathing room for even browning and melt-in-your-mouth results—work in batches if needed!
- Toss While Hot: Add the butter, cinnamon, and sugar as soon as the apples come out of the air fryer so everything glazes and sticks perfectly.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Taste and adjust the sugar/cinnamon balance at the end for apples that are just right for your family!
How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples
Garnishes
For an elegant or indulgent finish, sprinkle your apples with a handful of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, dust with a little extra cinnamon, or add a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle with a touch of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate cozy dessert.
Side Dishes
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples shine alongside vanilla yogurt for breakfast, atop pancakes or waffles for brunch, or as a warm, sweet side at a fall dinner. They even work tucked beside roast chicken or pork for a nod to classic apple pairings!
Creative Ways to Present
Layer them inside a parfait glass for an impromptu “apple pie” parfait, pile on top of oatmeal for a morning treat, or tuck into crepes for brunch. For parties, serve warm in mini mason jars so everyone can dig in with delight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftovers of your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples (miracles do happen!), just let them cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors mellow and get even deeper overnight, making them fantastic for breakfast meal prep.
Freezing
Want to stash some for later? Freeze any leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving—perfect for spontaneous cravings or last-minute guests!
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the apples back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350°F, or give them a quick zap in the microwave. You’ll be rewarded with warm, fragrant apples almost as good as the day they were made.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of apples for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples?
Absolutely! Gala is a favorite for its sweetness and texture, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith all work beautifully. Firmer varieties hold their shape best, while softer apples will result in a more “baked” feel—either way, you can’t go wrong.
-
Do I have to peel the apples?
Nope! It’s totally up to personal preference. Leaving the skin on gives a charming rustic texture and extra fiber, but peeling will make the apples silky-soft and more dessert-like. Both taste wonderful!
-
Can I make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples ahead of time?
Definitely! While they are best enjoyed warm from the air fryer, you can prep a batch and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. They reheat beautifully and are still scrumptious served cold or at room temperature atop yogurt or oatmeal.
-
Can I double or triple this recipe?
Yes! Just cook the apples in batches to avoid crowding the air fryer basket—you want them to roast, not steam. Keep finished slices warm in a low oven, then toss everything with the butter, cinnamon, and sugar at the end.
Final Thoughts
I’m always amazed by how cozy, quick, and downright craveable these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples are. If you’re hunting for a treat that tastes like apple pie met a warm hug—without rolling any crust—this is your answer. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how fast they disappear!
Print
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delicious air fryer apples are a quick and easy dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. With a hint of cinnamon and sugar, these warm, tender apples are a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Apples:
- 4 small/medium apples, we use Gala
Seasoning:
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, separated
- 1 T canola oil (vegetable oil will also work)
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 T butter, melted
- 2 T sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Remove apple cores and slice into 1/2 inch slices. Toss apples in oil, vanilla, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Air Fry: Add apples to the air fryer basket and air fry for 10 minutes or until soft and tender, shaking apples halfway through.
- Final Touch: Transfer cooked apples to a bowl and toss with butter, remaining cinnamon, and sugar.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can enjoy these apples on their own or as a topping for oatmeal, ice cream, or yogurt.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
