
Got a craving for something cozy and sweet? These air fryer apples are my go-to when I want fruit to feel a little fancy but still easy. You can whip 'em up in way under fifteen minutes, and that cinnamon hit is just awesome next to some oatmeal or a melty scoop of vanilla ice cream.
I tossed these apples together for brunch at my friend’s place one morning. They disappeared before the pancakes did! Now I whip them up anytime I want a fast, fall-friendly treat.
Yummy Ingredients
- Cinnamon: Brings warmth and an awesome kick—use Saigon for a punchier flavor
- Melted coconut oil: Makes things a bit rich and gets the apples a little crispy—go for the virgin kind if you can
- Real maple syrup: If you can, use the fancy pure kind for that next-level sweet and deep taste
- Red apples: Grab something sturdy like gala, pink lady, or honey crisp—they stay firm and get tender, not mushy. Heavy, smooth apples work best
Easy Step-by-Step
- Pile on the finishing touch:
- Once they’re out and hot, toss the apples with the rest of your maple syrup. Dig in right away for max flavor.
- Toss and cook:
- Air fry the apples at 380°F for about ten to fourteen minutes. Shake things up halfway so all the pieces get golden edges and a bit crisp. They’re good when the edges are colored and the inside feels nice and soft.
- Lay them out:
- Spread the coated apple cubes into your hot air fryer basket. Try to keep 'em mostly single layer, so they all get that crisp.
- Mix up the flavor:
- In a bowl, dump the apple pieces and coat with coconut oil, a tablespoon maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir until everything’s got some shine.
- Get your air fryer ready:
- Heat to 380°F. Give your basket a spray with nonstick so apples won’t glue themselves down.

I adore it when the entire kitchen fills up with that warm scent of caramelized maple and cinnamon. I always snag a couple apples before they hit the table for the first super hot, melty bite.
Smart Storage
Leftovers? Toss your apples in a sealed container and keep them in the fridge—they’re good for about three days. I love them cold, but you can zap them in the microwave a bit or toss back in the air fryer to heat up again.
Swap Options
No apples? Pears are awesome instead. Short on coconut oil? Melted butter has you covered for an old-school taste. If maple syrup ran out, honey works—but it’s sweeter, so use a little less.

How to Serve
Toss these apples over French toast, stack on pancakes, or stir them into oatmeal. Throw them into yogurt or layer them over vanilla pudding. Amazing on top of ice cream—add nuts if you love crunch. My family begs for these on waffles every brunch.
Common Questions
- → Is it necessary to use coconut oil?
Adding coconut oil helps the apples crisp up just a bit on the outside and gives a hint of richness. Don't have it? Any light-flavored oil will work just as well.
- → How should I cut the apples?
Take the skin and core off first, then chop the apples into chunky pieces about an inch wide. This size helps them cook up perfectly all the way through.
- → Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Warming up the air fryer first helps the apples cook evenly and gives them that nice caramelized outside.
- → Can I add other spices?
Totally! Try a shake of cardamom or nutmeg with your cinnamon for extra depth and coziness.
- → What are serving suggestions?
They're awesome warm over your cereal, paired up with vanilla ice cream, or just eaten straight out of the bowl as a sweet bite.
- → What types of apples work best?
Go for Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady—these hold up nicely and taste naturally sweet after cooking in the air fryer.