Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples

Here in Maine, apple orchards abound. And we often take the kids apple picking for a fun fall-weekend day trip that the kids just love. And so do I, there’s just something so peaceful about being in the middle of an orchard during apple season.

I’ve always used the fresh apples for baking, whether it be my Apple Pie Baked Oatmeal, this Apple Blueberry Crumble, or my delicious Szarlotka (Polish apple cake). Then I tried these air fryer cinnamon apple slices, and I was hooked. They’re a healthy fall snack that can be enjoyed any time of year with just minutes of prep time.

These air fryer baked apples give off a great apple pie filling vibe but in a healthier form. They’re a great option with ice cream or yogurt and granola or even just all on their own. 

Why you'll love this recipe

• They’re easy, quick to make, and absolutely delicious.
• It’s a great fall-inspired healthy dessert or great snack.
• Gives cozy apple pie vibes in a healthier form.
• Perfect healthy dessert or sweet treat without a lot of added sugar.
• Best way to use up an excess of apples.
• Air-fried apples are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways from breakfast to dessert.

Ingredient notes

This simple recipe only calls for a handful of common ingredients but packs so much flavor. 

• Apples: I like to use honeycrisp, but feel free to check out some other great options in the tips and tricks section below
• Butter: melted, but not hot
• Ground cinnamon: make sure your spices are fresh and in-date for the best tasting results
• Maple syrup: use real maple syrup 
• Vanilla extract: or my favorite vanilla bean paste
• Optional: vanilla ice cream or vanilla Greek yogurt, for serving

Substitutions and Alterations

• Use dairy free butter or refined coconut oil to make this recipe vegan 
• Maple syrup can be swapped for agave, brown sugar or coconut sugar
• Add a little fresh grated nutmeg for even more apple pie vibes.

How to make air fryer apple slices

Follow these simple instructions for great results every time.

Step 1: Peel and core your apples, then cut the peeled apples into halves. Cut the apple halves into ½ inch thick slices (Image 1).

Step 2: Place the apple slices in a mixing bowl, add the melted butter, cinnamon, vanilla and maple syrup (Image 2). Stir with a spatula to coat. 

Step 3: Preheat your basket style air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Step 4: Place apples in the air fryer basket in a single layer and air fry for 16-18 minutes, shaking the air fryer once, after 9 minutes (Images 3 & 4).

Step 5: Serve hot or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, vanilla Greek yogurt, or on top of oatmeal. See more serving suggestions below.

Storage and reheating suggestions

To store leftovers: Cool the cooked apples to room temperature before storing. This will keep condensation from forming inside the bag during storage. Store the cooled apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat: You can eat leftover cinnamon apples cold or reheat them in the microwave on high for 30 second bursts until warmed to your liking.

How to serve baked cinnamon apple slices

These air fryer baked apples are so versatile and can be served in a variety of ways from a sweet treat at breakfast to an easy dessert.

• As a delicious snack or an air fryer apple dessert with a side of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or vanilla Greek yogurt and a drizzle of caramel sauce
• On top of oatmeal or on top of a chia pudding bowl for a great breakfast option
• With some Greek yogurt or skyr with some granola or chopped nuts 
• On top of cottage cheese - try them with my silky smooth blended cottage cheese for a creamy and decadent delight
• They're a great side dish with pork or chicken dishes like these Pork Kabobs or Chicken Kabobs

Tips & Tricks

• I like to peel my apples for this recipe but you can leave the skin on, if you prefer.
• Apples can be sliced or large diced. You can even cut them into large sticks for apple fries.
• If you have a smaller size air fryer, these are best done in a couple batches.
• Cook time will vary by the size of your apple slices and make of your air fryer model
• Use dairy free butter or refined coconut oil to make this recipe vegan friendly 
• The best types of apples to use are the kind that work best in an apple pie: those that hold their shape and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness when baked. I have found the best results with Granny Smith Apples, Honey Crisp, Fuji, Pink Lady or Cortland. I try to stay away from mushier apples like golden delicious when air frying apples.

More delicious apple-inspired recipes