Air Fryer Apple Wedges: Craving a warm, comforting treat that’s both incredibly easy and surprisingly healthy? Look no further! Imagine biting into tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices, their natural sweetness intensified by a touch of caramelization, all achieved in a fraction of the time it takes to bake a pie. That’s the magic of air frying!

While apples themselves boast a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations and holding symbolic significance in various cultures, the concept of enjoying them in a warm, spiced form is equally timeless. Think of apple pies, crisps, and crumbles beloved desserts passed down through generations. These Air Fryer Apple Wedges offer a modern twist on this classic comfort food, making it accessible to even the busiest individuals.

People adore this dish for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. The air fryer creates a delightful contrast between the slightly crisp exterior and the soft, juicy interior of the apple. The warm spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit, creating a truly irresistible experience. Plus, it’s a guilt-free indulgence! Unlike traditional apple desserts loaded with butter and sugar, these air fryer wedges require minimal added ingredients, making them a healthy and delicious snack or dessert option. Get ready to experience the joy of warm, spiced apples in a whole new way!

Ingredients:

4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji 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:

Wash and core the apples: First, give your apples a good wash under cool running water. Dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Then, using an apple corer or a sharp knife, carefully remove the core from each apple. If you’re using a knife, cut around the core in a circle and then remove it in sections.
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 the size depending on your preference. Just try to keep them relatively uniform so they cook evenly.
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:

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 it in a small saucepan over low heat on the stovetop.
Combine the spices and sugar: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice (if using). Whisk them together until they are well combined and there are no lumps of brown sugar.
Mix the butter and spice mixture: Pour the melted butter over the cinnamon-sugar mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should form a thick, slightly wet paste.

Coating the Apple Wedges:

Coat the apple wedges: Add the apple wedges to the bowl with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the mixture. Make sure each wedge is well covered, as this is what will give them their delicious flavor and caramelized texture. You can use your hands or a spatula to do this.

Air Frying the Apple Wedges:

Preheat the air fryer (optional): Some air fryers recommend preheating, while others don’t. Check your air fryer’s manual for specific instructions. If your air fryer recommends preheating, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Arrange the apple wedges in the air fryer basket: Place the coated apple wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the apples from cooking evenly and getting crispy. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer basket is small. If you’re cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked apple wedges warm in a preheated oven (200°F/95°C) until you’re ready to serve them.
Air fry the apple wedges: Air fry the apple wedges at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your apple wedges and the power of your air fryer. I recommend checking them after 8 minutes and then adding more time as needed.
Flip the apple wedges halfway through: About halfway through the cooking time (around 4-6 minutes), carefully flip the apple wedges with a spatula. This will ensure that they cook evenly on both sides.
Check for doneness: The apple wedges are done when they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can test their tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into one of the wedges. It should go in easily.

Serving the Air Fryer Apple Wedges:

Remove from the air fryer: Carefully remove the air-fried apple wedges from the air fryer basket and place them on a serving plate. Be careful, as they will be hot!
Add toppings (optional): If desired, drizzle the apple wedges with caramel sauce, top them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and sprinkle them with chopped nuts. These toppings add extra flavor and texture, making them even more delicious.
Serve immediately: Serve the air-fried apple wedges immediately while they are still warm and crispy. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer.

Tips and Variations:

Apple Variety: As mentioned earlier, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are all great choices for this recipe. Granny Smith apples will give you a slightly tart flavor, while Honeycrisp and Fuji apples will be sweeter. You can also experiment with other apple varieties to find your favorite.
Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you’re not a fan of nutmeg or allspice, you can leave them out. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Sweetener Options: If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar or maple syrup instead. If using granulated sugar, you may want to add a tablespoon of molasses to give it a brown sugar flavor. If using maple syrup, reduce the amount of melted butter slightly.
Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
Adding Oats: For a more substantial dessert, you can add a sprinkle of rolled oats to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This will give the apple wedges a slightly crunchy topping.
Air Fryer Size: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer. Keep a close eye on the apple wedges and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Storage: Leftover air-fried 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. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Serving Suggestions: These air-fried apple wedges are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with other desserts. Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also make a great addition to a cheese board or dessert platter.

Troubleshooting:

Apples are not cooking evenly: Make sure you are cutting the apples into uniform wedges. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the apples in batches.
Apples are too soft: Reduce the cooking time. Overcooked apples will become mushy.
Apples are not sweet enough: Add more brown sugar to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also drizzle the cooked apple wedges with honey or maple syrup.
Apples are sticking to the air fryer basket: Make sure the air fryer basket is clean and lightly greased. You can also use parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)

Calories: 150-200
Fat: 8-12g
Saturated Fat: 5-8g
Cholesterol: 20-30mg
Sodium: 20-30mg
Carbohydrates: 20-30g
Sugar: 15-20g
Protein: 1g

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. They’re quick, easy, and deliver that perfect balance of sweet and slightly tart that makes them utterly irresistible. But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s simple: it’s a healthy and delicious snack or dessert that you can whip up in minutes, satisfying your cravings without any guilt. Forget slaving over a hot stove for hours; the air fryer does all the work, leaving you with perfectly tender apples with just a hint of crispness. Beyond the ease and deliciousness, these apple wedges are incredibly versatile. Looking for a simple snack? Enjoy them as is, fresh out of the air fryer. Want to elevate them to dessert status? A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes them to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. For a truly decadent treat, drizzle them with caramel sauce or melted chocolate. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Honeycrisp apples will give you a sweeter, crisper result, while Granny Smith apples will offer a more tart and tangy experience. You can also adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add a warm, comforting touch, especially during the fall and winter months. Consider adding a dash of cinnamon sugar before air frying for an extra layer of sweetness and spice. Serving suggestions are endless! These Air Fryer Apple Wedges are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with other dishes. Serve them as a side dish with grilled pork chops or chicken for a sweet and savory combination. Add them to your breakfast bowl with yogurt and granola for a healthy and satisfying start to your day. They’re also a great addition to a cheese board, providing a sweet counterpoint to the savory cheeses. I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for those moments when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend a lot of time or effort in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of fruit! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite apples, dust off your air fryer, and get ready to experience the magic of these Air Fryer Apple Wedges. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Did you try this recipe? What variations did you make? What did you serve them with? Share your photos and comments below. I’m always excited to see how you make my recipes your own. Let’s create a community of apple wedge enthusiasts! Happy air frying! I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious creations and any tips or tricks you discover along the way. Don’t be shy share your apple wedge adventures! Print