15-Minute Air Fryer Apples (Refined Sugar-Free)
Published: August 2, 2024 | Last Updated: December 12, 2024
Air Fryer Apples are tender slices of apple drizzled with maple syrup and warmed with cozy spices. This refined sugar-free recipe allows you to enjoy them as a quick and healthy snack or dessert. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make, and the results are always delicious!
I was craving apples constantly when I was pregnant. I needed at least one a day! But while most recipes just stop at cinnamon, I am sharing my secret for the ultimate air fryer apples: a pinch of ground ginger.
That tiny bit of ginger adds a sophisticated warmth that mimics the complex flavor of a slow-baked apple pie, but in a fraction of the time. These air-fried apples are tender, drizzled with maple syrup, and refined sugar-free, making them the perfect healthy treat for both kiddos and adults.
You Might Also Like: Air Fryer Peaches with Cinnamon and Sugar
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Apples Recipe
No Sugar Added: This recipe reminds me of an apple pie without all the added sugar. It's a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without adding sugar.
Easy to Prepare: With just five simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to prepare. A few minutes of prep, and you'll have a healthy treat ready to enjoy.
A Healthier Treat: Air-fried apples are rich in flavor but low in calories. They’re also dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, making them a great addition to your list of apple recipes.
Versatile: This is an anytime snack; enjoy it as a side dish with breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to any meal.
Nutrition Information:
Servings: 2 | Amount Per Serving (1/2 of recipe)
Calories: 205kcal
Total Fat: 4.8g
Saturated Fat: 4.1g
Sodium: 4mg
Total Carbohydrate: 43g
Dietary Fiber: 5.2g
Total Sugars: 33g
Protein: 0.6g
Choosing the Best Apples & Ingredients
Not all apples are created equal when it comes to heat! To get that perfect "apple pie filling" texture without the mush, choose a firm, crisp variety:
Honeycrisp: The gold standard. It stays firm and offers a honey-like sweetness that caramelizes beautifully at 390°F.
Granny Smith: Best for those who love a tart contrast. The acidity balances the maple syrup perfectly, and they hold their shape better than any other variety.
Gala or Fuji: Great everyday options. They have a higher water content, so they result in a slightly "saucier" finished product.
Beyond the fruit, here is how the rest of the simple ingredients contribute to the final flavor:
Maple Syrup: This replaces traditional brown sugar, providing a warm, refined sugar-free caramelization.
Coconut Oil: Melted coconut oil is a nutritious alternative to butter that helps the apples achieve a slight crispness on the outside while staying tender inside.
Ground Cinnamon & Ginger: Cinnamon provides the classic apple pie flavor, while the ⅛ teaspoon of ground ginger is our secret ingredient, adding a depth of warmth and spice that makes this recipe unique.
How to Make Air Fryer Apples
Ingredients:
2 apples, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 teaspoons coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Begin by washing and dicing your apples into even cubes.
2. Toss the apples in a large bowl with the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, and ginger. Mix well to coat the apples.
3. Place the apples in a single layer in the air fryer basket at 390°F for about 12 minutes, shaking them halfway through for even cooking.
4. Remove from the air fryer and serve with coconut whipped cream, yogurt, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Storing Leftovers
Store your air-fried apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer, or enjoy them chilled!
Jazz's Recommended Products
Wonder Oven Air Fryer: So cute on my kitchen counter and get the job done well! I love my Wonder Oven Air Fryer so much.
What to Serve Air Fried Cinnamon Apples With
Pair your delicious air-fried cinnamon apples with these delightful accompaniments for an extra special treat:
When to Enjoy Air Fryer Apples
Breakfast: Pair with full-fat, organic Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola or use as a topping on oatmeal or pancakes.
Snack: Serve with a few chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
Dessert: Enjoy as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or my low-sugar, dairy-free coconut whipped cream (omit pumpkin spice if desired).
Recipe Variations
Add Oats or Granola: For a heartier snack, consider adding oats or granola.
Liquid Sweetener: Swap maple syrup for agave or honey for a different flavor.
Drizzle of Honey or Caramel: Adding a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce are great options that pair well with these warm apples!
Pro Tips for The Best Air Fried Apples!
Prep Timing is Key: Don’t slice apples until ready to cook to prevent browning and keep them looking fresh. Once sliced, toss them immediately with the maple syrup and oil.
The Secret to Caramelization (Pre-Heat!): Pre-heat your air fryer for 3 minutes before adding the apples. This "sear" locks in the moisture and is critical for creating those slightly crispy, golden-brown edges.
Avoid Aerosol Spray: To protect the non-stick coating of your air fryer, avoid using cooking sprays like Pam. Always toss your apples in a bowl with the coconut oil before they hit the basket.
Ensure Even Cooking: Chop apples evenly into uniform cubes. If the pieces are different sizes, the smaller ones will overcook and turn mushy before the larger ones are tender.
Flavor Boosters: Don't be afraid to experiment! For more flavor, add extra ginger, a pinch of pumpkin pie spice, or nutmeg to the cinnamon mixture.
For Saucy Apples: If you prefer a more decadent, saucier filling (perfect for topping ice cream!), simply add one extra tablespoon of maple syrup to the toss mixture.
4 Other Dessert Recipes to Try
If you loved these air-fried apples, check out these other delicious dessert recipes:
FAQs
-
The suggested cooking time is 12 minutes, but it will vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer. So when you go to shake the air fryer basket at the 6-minute mark, check them.
-
Apples should be soft when poked but still have some texture, with a golden brown color and caramelized edges.
-
Absolutely! Honeycrisp or Gala apples are sweet options, but feel free to use whatever you have, including Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor.
-
You can enhance the flavor of your air-fried apples by adding a sprinkle of spices like nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or apple pie spice. A few drops of vanilla extract mixed with the maple syrup would also pair wonderfully!
-
For air fryer cinnamon apples, the best kind of apple depends on your taste preference. Sweet apples like Pink Lady apples or Honeycrisp offer natural sweetness, while tart apples like Granny Smith provide a tangy contrast. Adding a sprinkle of apple pie spice to your sliced apples before air frying enhances the flavor, making them taste like a cozy dessert.
-
Yes! The air fryer is one of the best ways to create crispy apple chips. Slice your favorite crisp apples, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, and toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Air fry the sliced apples for easy air fryer apples that make a delicious and healthy snack. They're perfect for enjoying as a sweet treat or adding to your new recipes.
-
You do not have to peel the apples. The skin is full of fiber and softens nicely in the air fryer. Leaving the peel on is faster and healthier, but if you prefer the smoother, classic texture of apple pie filling, peeling the apples beforehand will give you a perfect result.
Treat yourself to these warm, air-fried cinnamon apples—a sweet and satisfying treat that brings all the flavors of apple pie without added sugar! If you're in need of a healthy snack, a simple dessert, or a sweet pick-me-up any time of day, this delicious recipe is just what you’re looking for. It’s a fantastic way to indulge your sweet tooth during apple season while still keeping those health goals in check.
Air Fried Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
- 2 apples, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon of ground ginger
Instructions
- Begin by washing then dicing your apples into even cubes.
- Add the apples into a bowl along with the liquid sweetener, coconut oil, cinnamon and ginger.
- Mix well with a spoon to coat the apples.
- Place in the air fryer at 390F for about 12 minutes, shaking them half way through.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve with coconut whipped cream, yogurt or vanilla ice cream!
Hey, I’m Jazz
I’m a nutritional therapist practitioner and spent 3 years as a personal chef to NBA athletes. Follow along for easy, attainable and healthy recipes in under 30 minutes!
Watch the Recipe Tutorial
Trending Posts
