Air Fryer Apple Wedges: The Crispiest & Easiest Recipe

Air Fryer Apple Wedges: Craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s both incredibly easy and surprisingly healthy? Imagine biting into tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices, their edges perfectly caramelized and slightly crisp, all without the guilt of deep frying. That’s the magic of air frying!

Apples have been a culinary staple for centuries, enjoyed in countless forms across various cultures. From the classic American apple pie to European apple strudels, this versatile fruit has always held a special place in our hearts and kitchens. While traditionally baked or sautéed, the air fryer offers a modern twist, delivering exceptional results with minimal effort.

What makes these air fryer apple wedges so irresistible? It’s the delightful combination of textures and flavors. The natural sweetness of the apples is enhanced by the warm spices, creating a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, the air fryer’s ability to circulate hot air evenly ensures that each wedge is cooked to perfection, achieving that coveted balance of soft interior and slightly crispy exterior. And let’s not forget the convenience! This recipe is incredibly quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute dessert. Get ready to experience a new way to enjoy this classic fruit!

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work well)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (unsalted)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark, your preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional, but adds a nice warmth)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
• Optional toppings: caramel sauce, whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, chopped nuts

Preparing the Apple Wedges:

1. Wash and core the apples: First, give your apples a good wash under cool running water. Dry them off with a clean towel. Then, using an apple corer or a sharp knife, carefully remove the core from each apple. If you don’t have an apple corer, you can cut around the core with a knife.
2. Cut the apples into wedges: Place each apple on its end and cut it in half from top to bottom. Then, cut each half into wedges. I usually aim for about 8 wedges per apple, but you can adjust this depending on the size of your apples and your preference. The key is to make sure the wedges are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
3. Prevent browning: In a medium-sized bowl, toss the apple wedges with the lemon juice. This will help prevent them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients. Make sure all the wedges are coated with the lemon juice.

Making the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:

1. Melt the butter: In a small, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s completely melted. Alternatively, you can melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat on the stovetop.
2. Combine the spices and sugar: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no lumps of brown sugar. This ensures an even distribution of flavor on the apple wedges.
3. Combine butter and spice mixture: Pour the melted butter over the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined and forms a smooth, slightly thick sauce.

Coating the Apple Wedges:

1. Coat the apple wedges: Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the apple wedges in the bowl. Gently toss the wedges to ensure they are evenly coated with the mixture. You want each wedge to be nicely covered, but not swimming in the sauce. Use your hands or a spatula to help distribute the mixture evenly.

Air Frying the Apple Wedges:

1. Preheat the air fryer (optional): While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) can help ensure even cooking and a slightly crispier texture. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply run it at 350°F for about 3-5 minutes before adding the apple wedges.
2. Arrange the apple wedges in the air fryer basket: Carefully arrange the coated apple wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent the apples from cooking evenly and becoming crispy. If necessary, cook the apple wedges in batches. Overlapping wedges will steam instead of caramelizing.
3. Air fry the apple wedges: Air fry the apple wedges at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your apple wedges and the power of your air fryer. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness after 8 minutes. You want the apples to be tender and slightly caramelized, with a nice golden-brown color.
4. Check for doneness: To check if the apple wedges are done, insert a fork or toothpick into one of the wedges. It should be tender and easily pierced. If the apples are still too firm, continue air frying for a few more minutes, checking frequently.

Serving the Air Fryer Apple Wedges:

1. Remove from air fryer and cool slightly: Once the apple wedges are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket and place them on a serving plate. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as they will be very hot.
2. Add optional toppings: While the apple wedges are delicious on their own, they are even better with toppings! Drizzle them with caramel sauce, top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or sprinkle them with chopped nuts. Get creative and add your favorite toppings!
3. Serve immediately: Serve the air fryer apple wedges immediately while they are still warm and the toppings are fresh. They are a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.

Tips and Variations:

• Apple Variety: Experiment with different types of apples to find your favorite. Granny Smith apples will give you a tart and slightly firm result, while Honeycrisp and Gala apples will be sweeter and softer.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a little bit of heat.
• Add oats: For a more substantial treat, add a sprinkle of rolled oats to the cinnamon-sugar mixture before coating the apples. This will give them a slightly crunchy texture.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and ensure your brown sugar is vegan-friendly (some brands use bone char in the refining process).
• Storage: Leftover apple wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or microwave before serving. They may not be as crispy as when they were first made, but they will still be delicious.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Air Fryer Apple Wedges!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Air Fryer Apple Wedges are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be a little biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of the warm, tender apple, the crispy, slightly caramelized edges, and that hint of cinnamon spice is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without being overly sugary, and it’s so incredibly easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping up a batch almost every day. But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor and ease of preparation, it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and wholesome treat. We’re talking about real fruit, minimally processed, and cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Forget those store-bought snacks loaded with artificial ingredients and excessive sugar. These apple wedges are a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them a great option for a wide range of dietary needs. And the best part? The possibilities are endless! While I personally love them just as they are, warm and fresh from the air fryer, there are so many ways to customize and elevate this simple recipe. For a truly decadent treat, try drizzling them with a little melted dark chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping them in a homemade caramel sauce. For a more savory twist, consider pairing them with a sharp cheddar cheese or a creamy blue cheese. The sweet and salty combination is surprisingly delicious and makes for a sophisticated appetizer or snack. You could even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a little bit of heat. These Air Fryer Apple Wedges also make a fantastic addition to breakfast or brunch. Serve them alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a warm and comforting start to your day. Or, add them to your yogurt or oatmeal for a boost of flavor and nutrition. Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative! That’s the beauty of this recipe – it’s so versatile and adaptable to your own personal preferences. Try different types of apples to see which ones you like best. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples all work wonderfully. You can also adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar to suit your taste. I truly believe that everyone should have this recipe in their repertoire. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying snack. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you’re craving something sweet and comforting. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apples, your air fryer, and get ready to experience the magic of these Air Fryer Apple Wedges. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And once you’ve tried them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what you think, what you added, and how you made them your own. I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to enjoy this simple yet satisfying treat. Happy air frying! Print