Name: Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium apple (Gala or Pink Lady recommended); 1 1/2 tablespoons old-fashioned oats; 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of ground nutmeg; Pinch of kosher salt; 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts; 1 teaspoon dried cranberries; 1 tablespoon softened unsalted butter (divided); 1 teaspoon honey; Vanilla ice cream (optional); Caramel syrup (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 40 reviews

If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that’s wonderfully simple yet full of layers of flavor and texture, this Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe is exactly what you need. The magic happens when sweet, tender apple meets a crunchy, spiced oat and walnut filling, all perfectly cooked in a fraction of the time using your air fryer. Whether you want an easy dessert or a cozy snack, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for showcasing the humble apple in a delightfully elevated way.

Ingredients You'll Need

A group of small white bowls and one clear glass container are arranged on a white marbled surface. In the front is a white bowl filled with light beige rolled oats, to its right is another white bowl with light brown raw sugar. Above that bowl is a white bowl containing brown chopped nuts mixed with dark red dried fruit pieces. To the left of that bowl is a white bowl holding white salt, with another white bowl behind it containing a pale yellow square of butter. At the top right is a white bowl with small amounts of white, brown, and reddish-brown spices. A bright red apple sits on a white small plate near the center, and in front of it is a small clear glass container filled with golden honey. A red and white cloth is draped in the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a handful of everyday ingredients, each carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that makes the baked apple so irresistible. From the natural sweetness of honey and brown sugar to the crunch of walnuts and oats, every ingredient plays a starring role.

1 medium apple (Gala or Pink Lady): These varieties offer the perfect balance of sweetness and firmness that holds up well in the air fryer.

1 ½ tablespoons old-fashioned oats: Adds a satisfying chew and a hearty texture to the filling.
1 tablespoon softened unsalted butter (divided): Richens the filling and helps create a golden crust on the apple’s surface.
1 tablespoon chopped walnuts: For a nutty crunch that complements the soft apple perfectly.

1 teaspoon honey: Natural sweetness that ties everything together and keeps the filling moist.
1 teaspoon brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and depth to the filling.
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour: Helps bind the filling ingredients and soak up moisture.

1 teaspoon dried cranberries: Bursts of tartness add a bright contrast to the sweet and nutty flavors.
⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic warm spice that enhances the apple’s natural flavor.
Pinch of ground nutmeg: Adds subtle warmth and complexity.
Pinch of kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all other flavors.

How to Make Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Preheating ensures your apple cooks evenly and develops that lovely, tender texture without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling Mix

In a shallow bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the walnuts and dried cranberries so they’re evenly dispersed. Next, add about half of the softened butter and drizzle the honey on top. Use a spoon or your fingers to press and mix everything until it forms a cohesive, crumbly mixture. This filling will give you a sweet, crunchy contrast to the soft baked apple.

Step 3: Core and Prepare the Apple

Wash and dry your apple thoroughly. Slice off the top portion of the apple, then carefully scoop out the core and seeds using a melon baller or a combination of a small knife and spoon. This creates a perfect hollow space to hold the filling without breaking the apple apart.

Step 4: Butter the Apple

Brush the entire apple, inside and out, with the remaining softened butter. This coating helps the skin caramelize and prevents dryness during cooking, adding a subtle richness.

Step 5: Begin Air Frying the Apple

Place the prepared apple on a parchment-lined air fryer tray. Gently insert the tray into the air fryer’s middle cooking chamber. Cook the apple for 10 minutes to get it warm and just starting to soften before adding the filling.

Step 6: Add the Filling and Continue Cooking

Remove the tray carefully and spoon most of your oat mixture into the cored center of the apple, keeping about a teaspoon aside. Return the apple to the air fryer and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the filling to warm through and meld with the softened apple.

Step 7: Top and Finish Cooking

After the 3 minutes, sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top of the apple filling and lightly press it down to stay in place. Air fry for a final 3 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on it as oven models vary slightly in heat intensity.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove your Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving plate. Feel free to top it with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel syrup for an indulgent finish.

How to Serve Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe

A baked apple sits on a piece of light brown parchment paper with slightly darkened spots from cooking, placed on a black baking tray with a grid pattern. The apple has soft, slightly wrinkled skin in shades of red and yellow. On top, there is a thick layer of golden brown oat crumble mixed with bits of nuts and dried fruit, showing a crunchy texture. Juices from the apple have leaked out, pooling around the base, adding a shiny and wet look to the parchment paper. The scene is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream instantly uplift your baked apple. For a festive touch, chopped fresh mint or a few extra dried cranberries on top bring a burst of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This baked apple is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, a spoonful of Greek yogurt, or even alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee. For brunch, try serving it next to fluffy pancakes or oatmeal for a warm, comforting contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your baked apple in a small ramekin to catch any sticky juices, or place it on a rustic wooden board for a charming presentation. Drizzling a warm caramel or maple syrup glaze over the top creates a gleaming finish that’s simply irresistible. You can even hollow out multiple smaller apples and arrange them as an adorable bundled dessert plate for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked apple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The apple may become softer over time, but reheating it gently will restore some of the original texture and warmth.

Freezing

While freezing baked apples is possible, it can affect the texture, making the fruit mushier after thawing. If you want to freeze, wrap the apple tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. Consume within 1 month for the best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, place the baked apple back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave it on medium power for 30-60 seconds, but this may soften the texture more than air frying.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

While you can try different apples, varieties like Gala or Pink Lady work best because they are sweet and hold their shape well when cooked. Softer apples might turn mushy.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps the apple cook more evenly and speeds up the baking process. It’s recommended but not absolutely mandatory.

Can I substitute the walnuts with other nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make great alternatives, providing a similar crunch and flavor profile.

How do I scoop out the apple without breaking it?

Use a small melon baller or a sharp knife and spoon to carefully hollow out the core and seeds. Take your time to avoid puncturing the apple’s sides.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe is one of those delightful surprises that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and results in a comforting dessert that’s full of texture and cozy flavors. I hope you give it a try and find yourself coming back to it whenever you want a quick yet satisfying sweet treat. Happy eating!

Baked Apple in Air Fryer Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need