There’s something magical about the simplicity of air-fried apples. With a hint of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar, these tender, sweet apples are ready in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast side, a delicious topping for your oatmeal or French toast, or just a quick dessert, these air fryer apples have you covered.
Why We Love Air Fried Apples
In our family, breakfast at Cracker Barrel is a hit-or-miss experience. One of our kids loves it, while the other does not so much. But there’s one dish that always gets rave reviews—those irresistible fried apples! Inspired by that southern delight, we decided to make our own version using the air fryer. And let me tell you, they’re just as delicious!
These air fryer apples are incredibly versatile. Pile them on top of a stack of French toast, spoon them over a bowl of oatmeal, or serve them as a simple side dish. They’re also fantastic as desserts, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Apples: Choose two large baking apples. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best, but Braeburn or Jonagold are excellent alternatives.
- Sauce: Melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt make the perfect coating for your apples.
How to Make Air Fried Apples
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Peel and core your apples, then slice them into wedges or dice them into ½ inch-thick pieces. Place the apples in a bowl and drizzle melted butter over the top. Toss until they’re well coated.
Step 2: Air Fry the Apples
In your air fry basket, arrange the apples. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and slightly browned around the edges. The cooking time may vary depending on how thickly you cut the apples.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Transfer the apples back to the bowl. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the apples evenly, then serve!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fried Apples
These air-fried apples are perfect alongside any breakfast meal. My husband even considers it a breakfast dessert! Serve them on French toast, pancakes, or oatmeal, or eat them as a side dish with bacon and eggs.
For a truly decadent dessert, serve these warm apples over a scoop of French vanilla ice cream. Don’t forget to add a drizzle of caramel sauce—it’s the perfect finishing touch.
These apples are also a surprising and delicious side dish for savory meals like pork chops or country fried steak. While fried apples might not be a common side dish where we live, they’re a staple in southern cuisine, and it’s simple to see why!
