If your heart skips a beat at the smell of warm cinnamon and sweet apples, you’re in good company. These Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples are my go-to when I need something comforting, quick, and just a little indulgent—without tipping the scale.
Between work, kids, and the never-ending laundry pile, I crave recipes that feel like a hug in a bowl. This cozy treat is ready in under 20 minutes and makes the whole kitchen smell like fall. Whether you’re craving a healthy apple cinnamon snack or a quick fall dessert recipe, this one’s pure gold.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples are everything I want in a sweet treat—easy, fast, and packed with cozy flavor. No fancy gadgets or baking skills required, just simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time.
They’re perfect for those “I need dessert now” moments or when you want a healthy apple cinnamon snack that feels indulgent but isn’t. Warm, tender, and kissed with cinnamon—they’re fall in every bite.
Ingredients Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
You don’t need a mile-long grocery list to make these Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples. Just a handful of pantry staples and your favorite sweet apples will do the trick. Below, I’ve broken down what each ingredient does and offered a few helpful swaps. (Psst—exact amounts are at the bottom of the post and ready to print for your fridge door!)
- Sweet apples – I love using Honeycrisp or Fuji. Their natural sweetness and firm texture hold up beautifully in the air fryer.
- Melted butter – Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil or vegan butter works too.
- Brown sugar – Gives a deep, caramelly flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon and apples.
- White sugar – Adds a touch more sweetness and helps with that caramelized edge we all crave.
- Cinnamon – The star of the show! It brings warmth and that signature cozy aroma to every bite.
- Vanilla extract – Just a splash brings all the flavors together with a soft, fragrant finish.
- Pinch of salt – A tiny bit goes a long way in balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavor.
- Optional toppings – A drizzle of maple syrup or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this from snack to easy air fryer dessert in seconds.
These ingredients come together like old friends at a fall reunion—warm, familiar, and oh-so-satisfying.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples
Making these Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples is so simple, I could almost do it with my eyes closed—though I don’t recommend that with a knife in hand! Follow these easy steps for a quick fall dessert recipe that’s as satisfying as it is stress-free.
Step 1 – Prep the Apples
Start by peeling your apples. I like to use a paring knife, but a peeler works fine too. Core them and slice into thick rounds or wedges—whatever feels right to you. Keep them uniform so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Pro tip: If you’re prepping ahead, toss the slices in a little lemon juice to keep them from browning.
Step 2 – Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mixture smells like a hug from grandma—it’s sweet, warm, and just magical.
This is the secret to that perfect caramelized finish that makes these taste like air fried sweet apple slices from a cozy bakery.
Step 3 – Coat the Apple Slices
Lay your apple slices flat on a plate or tray. Then brush each one generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Don’t be shy—this is where all the flavor lives!
Make sure both sides are coated. It’s that sticky-sweet layer that transforms these into a cozy comfort food treat.
Step 4 – Preheat and Load the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. While it’s heating, take a breath and maybe sneak a taste of that cinnamon mixture (I always do!).
Once ready, lay the apples in a single layer in the basket. Don’t crowd them—they need space to get those golden edges.
Step 5 – Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Air fry the apples for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’re looking for tender centers and crispy, caramelized edges.
Every air fryer is a little different, so check them around minute 10. They should be golden, bubbly, and smell like fall dreams.
Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples warm, straight from the basket or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. Heaven, right?
For a lighter touch, drizzle a little maple syrup and enjoy as a healthy apple cinnamon snack that feels indulgent but keeps things balanced.
Tips for Success
- Choose firm, sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji—they hold their shape and taste amazing.
- Slice apples evenly so they cook at the same rate and don’t burn.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—give those apple slices room to breathe and brown.
- Flip halfway through for even caramelization and crispy edges.
- Serve immediately for the best warm, gooey texture.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer – Any size will work, but a basket-style fryer gives the best circulation for crispy edges.
- Peeler or paring knife – For removing the apple skin with ease.
- Cutting board and knife – To core and slice your apples evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – Perfect for whipping up that dreamy cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Basting brush – Helps coat each apple slice evenly, but a spoon works in a pinch.
Variations
- Dairy-Free Delight – Swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter to make this treat completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
- Spiced-Up Version – Add a pinch of nutmeg, clove, or allspice to the cinnamon mix for a deeper, more festive spice profile.
- Maple Magic – Drizzle with pure maple syrup before air frying for an extra layer of natural sweetness and sticky goodness.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving to add a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
- Low-Sugar Option – Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or coconut sugar to turn this into a healthy apple cinnamon snack without the guilt.
- Apple Pie Remix – Serve with crushed graham crackers and a dollop of whipped cream for a deconstructed apple pie vibe.
- Kid-Friendly Fun – Let the little ones dip their slices in yogurt or caramel sauce for an easy air fryer dessert they’ll actually eat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm mug of chai tea or spiced cider for the ultimate cozy combo.
- Top with vanilla ice cream and crushed graham crackers for a fun apple pie twist.
- Serve over oatmeal or pancakes to turn breakfast into a cozy comfort food treat.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an effortless, elegant dessert.
- Enjoy with a side of sharp cheddar for a sweet and savory balance that’s surprisingly addictive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples ahead of time?
A: You can, but I’ll be honest—they’re best when fresh and warm. If you need to prep ahead, slice the apples and store them in lemon water in the fridge to keep them from browning. You can also mix the cinnamon sugar coating ahead of time. Reheat cooked slices in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to bring back that cozy crispness.
Q: What type of apples work best for this recipe?
A: I swear by Honeycrisp and Fuji—they’re naturally sweet with a firm bite that holds up beautifully in the hot air fryer. Gala and Pink Lady also work well. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy. For that perfect air fried sweet apple slice, you want apples that balance sweetness and structure.
Q: Are these a healthy apple cinnamon snack option?
A: Absolutely! With real fruit, a touch of butter, and just enough sugar to bring out the flavor, they’re a smarter choice than most store-bought sweets. You can even cut the sugar or swap in coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic treat. It’s comfort food that won’t derail your day—a true healthy apple cinnamon snack you’ll feel good about.
Q: Can I use this as a quick fall dessert recipe for guests?
A: Yes, and they’ll never guess how easy it was! These Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples look beautiful on a dessert plate and smell like a spiced candle in the best way. Add ice cream or whipped cream for a show-stopping quick fall dessert recipe that takes just minutes to pull together.
Q: How do I store leftover caramelized apples in air fryer?
A: If you somehow have leftovers (rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F. They won’t be just-out-of-the-fryer crisp, but they’ll still be delicious, especially over yogurt or oatmeal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the way these Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples come together—simple ingredients, a few short steps, and suddenly your kitchen smells like a warm autumn hug. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, fork in hand, smiles guaranteed.
Whether you’re sneaking a sweet bite after dinner or treating your family to a cozy comfort food treat, this dish never disappoints. Quick, forgiving, and endlessly satisfying—it’s become one of my favorite ways to enjoy apples. So go ahead, fire up that air fryer and bring a little comfort to your day.
PrintAir Fryer Cinnamon Apples Made Easy and Delicious
A quick and easy air fryer dessert featuring sweet apple slices coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture, air fried to golden perfection. Ideal for a healthy snack or cozy fall treat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: drizzle of maple syrup or scoop of vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thick rounds. Lay them flat on a plate.
- In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Brush both sides of the apple slices generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the apples have crispy edges and tender centers.
- Serve warm, optionally drizzled with maple syrup or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Use sweet apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for best flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute melted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste.
- Can be a great topping for oatmeal, pancakes, or yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg