Warm, tender, cinnamon-glazed apples kissed with pure maple syrup — all made in the air fryer. This easy, wholesome dessert is vegan, gluten-free, and loaded with natural sweetness. It’s perfect for cozy nights, healthy snacks, breakfast bowls, or elegant entertaining. Best of all, it requires minimal prep and no refined sugar or butter.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
- What makes air fryer apples so good
- The best apple varieties to use
- A step-by-step recipe with tips
- Flavor variations
- How to serve them
- Meal prep and storage tips
- Nutritional information
- And more
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Apples
Air fryer apples are a modern take on a classic comfort food — baked cinnamon apples — but quicker, healthier, and even crispier. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 15–20 minutes total.
- Wholesome Ingredients: No refined sugars or dairy.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Naturally free from allergens.
- Versatile: Serve as dessert, breakfast, or topping.
- Kid-Friendly & Meal-Prep Friendly
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2–3 large apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work well)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Raisins or dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (helps balance sweetness and keeps apples fresh)
- Rolled oats (to turn into a crisp-style topping)
Best Apples for Air Frying
Not all apples are created equal for air frying. You want apples that hold their shape and don’t turn mushy.
Best Choices:
- Honeycrisp – Sweet, slightly tart, great texture
- Gala – Mildly sweet, soft but not too soft
- Fuji – Very sweet and juicy
- Pink Lady – Balanced sweetness and firmness
Avoid:
- Red Delicious (gets mushy)
- McIntosh (very soft when cooked)
How to Make Cinnamon Maple Air Fryer Apples
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Apples
- Wash and core the apples.
- Slice into 1/2-inch wedges or cubes, keeping the skins on for texture (optional).
- Place them in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Maple syrup
- Melted coconut oil
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Pour over apples and toss until fully coated.
Step 3: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment (if desired).
- Add coated apples in a single layer — don’t overcrowd.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until apples are tender and golden.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired, and sprinkle with chopped pecans or oats.
Serving Ideas
These apples are incredibly versatile. Try them:
| Meal Type | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Dessert | With vegan vanilla ice cream, coconut whipped cream, or dairy-free yogurt |
| Breakfast | On top of oatmeal, pancakes, or chia pudding |
| Snack | On their own, warm or cold |
| Entertaining | As part of a fall fruit platter or over baked brie with gluten-free crackers |
Flavor Variations
| Variation | What to Add |
|---|---|
| Apple Pie Style | Add 1/4 teaspoon allspice and use brown coconut sugar |
| Caramel Apple | Drizzle with vegan caramel sauce after air frying |
| Pumpkin Spice | Add 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice and crushed graham crackers |
| Crisp-Style | Add a crumble topping with oats, coconut oil, and almond flour before air frying |
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
| Storage Type | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Fridge | Store in an airtight container up to 5 days |
| Freezer | Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months; reheat in air fryer |
| Reheat | Air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes |
Expert Tips
- Use parchment liners if your air fryer basket has large holes.
- Don’t overcrowd — air flow is key for caramelization.
- Want crispier apples? Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch to the mix before air frying.
- For an extra glow: Brush with a little extra maple syrup right after cooking.
Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~160
- Fat: 5g (from coconut oil and nuts)
- Carbs: 29g
- Sugars: 17g (natural from apples and maple)
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
(Note: Nutrition will vary based on apple size, added toppings, and maple quantity.)
Why Maple Syrup?
Maple syrup is:
- 100% natural
- Lower on the glycemic index than refined sugar
- Packed with antioxidants and minerals
- Adds warm, earthy sweetness
Always choose pure, organic maple syrup, not pancake syrup or corn syrup blends.
Is This Recipe Really Vegan and Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally free of:
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Gluten
- Refined sugars
- Animal products
Make sure to check your vanilla extract and toppings (like oats or nuts) for hidden gluten or additives.
FAQ: Your Apple Air Fryer Questions Answered
Q: Can I use apple slices instead of chunks?
A: Absolutely. Just reduce cook time to 8–10 minutes for thinner slices.
Q: How do I keep apples from turning brown?
A: Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice before glazing if prepping ahead.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but cook in batches for best texture and caramelization.
Q: Can I use a toaster oven air fryer combo?
A: Yes, just watch the cooking time as results may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re meal-prepping a week’s worth of wholesome snacks or planning a fall-themed dessert platter, these Homemade Cinnamon Maple Glazed Air Fryer Apples are:
- Incredibly easy
- Totally indulgent
- Yet completely guilt-free
They’re proof that simple, clean ingredients can deliver the best flavors. Once you try them, you’ll never look at apple desserts the same way again.