Introduction: Air Fryer Baked Apples are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional baked apples. They’re easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and come out perfectly tender and flavorful with a crispy topping. This recipe is ideal for a cozy dessert or a sweet snack and can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) – optional
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Wash and core the apples, removing the seeds and creating a small cavity in the center. You can use an apple corer or a knife.
- Brush the apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, rolled oats, chopped nuts (if using), all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and well combined. If using raisins or dried cranberries, mix them in.
- Stuff the Apples:
- Spoon the filling into the cavities of each apple, packing it in tightly. Be generous with the filling to ensure each apple is well-stuffed.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Apples:
- Arrange the stuffed apples in the air fryer basket. If they don’t fit comfortably in one layer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Air fry the apples at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are tender and the topping is golden brown. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of apple used.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the apples from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy the baked apples warm on their own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Success:
- Choose apples that hold their shape well when cooked, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Adjust the sweetness and spice level of the filling to your taste.
- If you prefer a softer apple, you can increase the cooking time slightly, but be careful not to overcook and turn them mushy.
Conclusion: Air Fryer Baked Apples are a quick, delicious, and healthier dessert option that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with the crisp texture of the air fryer. They’re perfect for a cozy treat and can be customized with various fillings and toppings. Enjoy the ease and taste of these baked apples as a delightful end to any meal!