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There’s something about the smell of apples, cinnamon, and sugar that instantly makes your kitchen feel warm and inviting. These Air Fryer Baked Apples are one of those simple treats that feel like a hug in dessert form — soft, caramelized, and packed with cozy flavor.
I love making these on chilly afternoons when I want something sweet but not too heavy. The air fryer makes the apples perfectly tender with golden edges in just 12–14 minutes. It’s basically shortcut apple pie (without the crust) and it smells amazing while it cooks.
Each apple is stuffed with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon — then topped with granola for a little crunch and caramel drizzle for extra indulgence. You get that melty, spiced filling and warm, juicy apple in every spoonful.
If you’re looking for an easy fall dessert, or just something wholesome to satisfy your sweet tooth, these baked apples are it. Let’s get started!
🥕 Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you need to make these cozy baked apples:
- 2 large apples – Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work great. Core them, but keep the bottoms intact to hold the filling.
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp) – Adds that rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- Butter (1 tbsp) – Melts into the center and makes everything extra luscious.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples and brown sugar.
- Granola – Sprinkle on top after baking for crunch.
- Optional: Caramel sauce or maple syrup for drizzling.
Swaps & Notes:
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Want extra spice? Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger.
- For a lower-sugar version, use less brown sugar and let the apple’s natural sweetness shine.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Pro Tip: A hot air fryer helps the apples start softening right away.
- Core the apples, scooping out the center and seeds but leaving the bottom intact. Pro Tip: Use a melon baller or paring knife for best control.
- Stuff each apple with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1/2 tablespoon of butter, and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon. Pro Tip: Pack it in tight so it melts down slowly into the apple.
- Place the apples upright in the air fryer basket, spaced apart.
- Air fry at 350°F for 12–14 minutes, until apples are soft and tops are caramelized. Pro Tip: Check for doneness with a fork at 12 minutes — cooking time varies slightly by apple size.
- Top with granola and drizzle with caramel sauce, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking – Apples can collapse if left too long. Check early!
- Coring too deep – You want a “bowl” effect. Don’t poke through the bottom.
- Using apples that are too soft – Pick firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Skipping the preheat – Slows down the softening process.
- Not spacing the apples – Air flow is key to even cooking.
🎨 Variations & Add-Ons
- Oat Crumble Top – Mix oats, butter, cinnamon, and sugar for a streusel topping.
- Nutty Version – Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling.
- Raisin & Spice – Toss a few raisins or dried cranberries in with the sugar.
- Apple Pie Style – Add a touch of vanilla extract or pie spice.
- Vegan Version – Use vegan butter or coconut oil and skip caramel.
📦 Make Ahead & Storage
- Make ahead: Core and stuff apples up to a day ahead. Store in the fridge and air fry when ready.
- Storage: Store cooked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Air fry for 3–4 minutes at 300°F or microwave for 30–60 seconds.
🥗 Nutrition Highlights
Roughly 200 calories per apple (before toppings). Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free.
Air Fryer Baked Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Core apples, keeping bottoms intact.
- Stuff each with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon.
- Place in air fryer basket.
- Air fry 12–14 minutes until soft and golden.
- Top with granola and drizzle caramel if desired.
Notes
Estimated Calories: ~200 per apple
These air fryer baked apples are the kind of simple treat that never gets old. They’re warm, sweet, and taste like fall in every bite — with barely any effort. If you give them a try, I’d love to know how they turned out! Leave a comment, snap a photo, or tag me on social. And if you’re into cozy air fryer desserts, check out my Air Fryer S’mores Cookies next — gooey, chewy, and totally addictive!
