Is there any smell more comforting than cinnamon and apples baking? It’s a scent that instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen, to holiday mornings, and to the feeling of pure, simple happiness. For me, that smell is a non-negotiable part of a good day.
But let’s be real, a whole apple pie is a commitment. So, I set out to capture that exact feeling with zero fuss, zero mess, and in about the time it takes to brew a cup of tea. And that’s where the air fryer comes in.
You get all the warm, tender, aromatic goodness of a baked apple in minutes, with minimal effort and cleanup. These air fryer cinnamon apples are a game-changer for a healthy snack, a quick breakfast topping, or a no-fuss dessert that feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Apples
- Lightning Fast:
- Minimal Cleanup
- Super Versatile
- Healthy & Delicious
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples Recipe
The beauty of this recipe is that you probably have everything you need in your pantry right now.
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Apples (small/medium) | 4 |
| Cinnamon | 1½ tsp, divided |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Butter, melted | 2 tbsp |
| Coconut Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Vanilla | 1 tsp |
Ingredient Notes:
- Gala apples hold shape well, but any crisp variety works
- Use half the cinnamon for cooking, half for dusting
- Brown sugar gives a deeper flavor than white
- Always use xylitol-free vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step1. Prep the Apples
Start by removing the cores from your apples and slicing them into ½-inch slices. Don’t worry about peeling them—the skin adds great color and a little extra texture. Toss the apples in a bowl with the coconut oil, vanilla, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Make sure every slice is coated.
Step 2. Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Place the seasoned apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single, even layer. It’s okay if they overlap a little, but try not to crowd the basket. Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to make sure they cook evenly and get a nice caramelization on all sides. They’re done when they’re soft and tender.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
When the apples are cooked, carefully transfer them to a bowl. Immediately toss them with the melted butter, the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and the brown sugar. The heat from the apples will melt the sugar and butter into a syrupy, delicious coating. Serve immediately while they’re warm and fragrant.
Tips, Variations & Customizations
- Want more spice? Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon toss.
- Make it boozy: Add a teaspoon of rum extract to the toss for a spiced, cozy twist.
- Sugar swap: You can use brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-y flavor.
- Make it savory: Skip the sugar and add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with pork.
Nutritional Breakdown
This recipe makes 2 generous servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Total Fat | Approx. 14g |
| Total Carbohydrates | Approx. 32g |
| Protein | Approx. 1g |
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer apples are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a few fun additions. Try them:
- For breakfast: Top your oatmeal or Greek yogurt with a scoop.
- As a dessert: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
- As a snack: Eat them straight from the bowl, maybe with a dollop of peanut butter for a protein boost.
The 10 Minute Recipe
So there you have it, a warm, delicious, and incredibly simple treat that brings all the cozy feelings without any of the fuss. These cinnamon apples are a game-changer for a quick snack or a perfect dessert. Make a batch tonight, and your future self (the one enjoying a bowl of perfectly spiced apples) will thank you for it. Happy eating!
