I made this easy air fryer apple crisp recipe several weeks ago to give it a try. I love apple crisp, but also loved the idea of using the air fryer. This is one of the most delicious Air Fryer Apple Recipes desserts I have ever eaten! Are you familiar with the health benefits of apples? Apples are actually one of the healthiest fruits out there, and not to mention, they’re delicious. Here are some facts and health benefits of apples to help you understand why it is something that you should consider eating more often.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp
The tastiest dessert made in an air fryer without gluten is apple crisp! With a dollop of vanilla ice cream, the buttery oatmeal almond flour crumb topping atop fresh chopped apples is simply amazing!
Air fryer Apple Crisp
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This recipe is one of my favorites since it satisfies your sweet tooth while using nutritious ingredients. It is quick, simple, makes a small quantity serving for two, is gluten-free, and is prepared using almond flour and oats.
Our favorite sweet treat is baking with fruit. When the fruit is combined with a crunchy coating, like this baked mango, it tends to become sweeter and softer.
What is Apple Crisp?
In its simplest form, it is an apple-based dish that is baked after being topped with streusel. However, since an air fryer cooks food quickly on the top, sometimes there isn’t enough time for the fruit to soften, creating a meal with luscious cooked fruit and a golden crispy topping proved challenging. Therefore, we devised 2 creative hacks to address the issue.
THE SECRET
1. Chopped apples – We tried this recipe with sliced fruit, but they turned to be mostly crunchy and raw by the time the crumb was browned. However, chopping them into 1/4-inch cubes, made them tender and juicy.
2. Adding water into the filling – Traditional baked apple crisp recipes are cooked slowly in the oven, which yields a juicy apple along with a caramel sauce from the sugar and juices. Since air fryer cooks by blowing hot air, which inhibits that process, we used a substantial amount of water that helped in creating a steam and cooking them soft and tender.
Best Apples to use
The best ones to use for almond flour apple crisp are those that are firm, sweet and crisp. We prefer fruits that hold its shape after the intense cooking like Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji, Jonagold, Braeburn, Pink Lady, or Honey crisp (refer more on best baking apples here).
To peel or not to peel
Fruit with or without peels can be used in oven-baked recipes because of the lengthy, gradual cooking time that helps to soften the skin. However, since air frying does not soften the skin as much as oven baking, we advise peeling the skin off.
Pro tips for success
More healthy – Use solid coconut oil instead of butter
Almond flour – Use super fine variety and not almond meal.
2 large apples – Chopped measures about 2 and 3/4 cups
Do not chop them bigger – The fruit might not get cooked if cut into larger pieces.
We used Gala variety and the sugar quantity was perfect.
Rotating the pan half way though air frying helps in even browning.
Use chopped walnuts or pecans instead of sliced almonds.
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Yes. Use 1 tablespoon all purpose flour for filling and 3 tablespoons for topping.
What to serve with this healthy crisp?
Serve hot / warm / room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an easy dessert or snack.
If serving for a light breakfast, then serve it with some greek yogurt sweetened with honey.
Ingredients
- Apple – Use your favorite like Fuji, Honey crisp, Jonagold, Braeburn or Granny smith.
- Oats – Old fashioned oats or rolled oats
- Almond Flour – Super fine almond flour
- Sugar – Both brown sugar and regular sugar is used, which gives a perfect balance of sweetness and caramel flavor
- Butter – Cold unsalted butter, cut into chunks
- Spices – Ground cinnamon
How to make?
- Prepare fruit – Peel, core and chop into 1/4 inch cubes.
- Make filling – Stir chopped fruit, almond flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, water and salt together in a greased 6-inch baking pan.
- Make topping – Mix oats, almond flour, sugar and salt together. Mix cold butter with your finger tips, until it is thoroughly incorporated. Stir in chopped sliced almonds.
- Air fry – Bake apple crisp with almond flour in a pre heated 350 degree air fryer for about 30 minutes or until the topping is golden.
- Eat – Serve hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftover crisp (wrapped in foil) for 2 to 3 days.
How to reheat?
Place baking pan (remove foil/plastic wrap), add about 1 tablespoon water into the empty part of the pan and place in a pre heated 300 degree air fryer and cook for 5 to 8 minutes (depends on the quantity), until warmed through.
Air Fryer Apple Recipes
Apple crisp made in the air fryer is crunchy, sweet, delectable, and easy to prepare. Grandma’s traditional apple pie can still be enjoyed, but with a lot fewer calories and steps.
Due to my excessive sweet tooth, I rarely make dessert. But this sweet and sour recipe is ideal when my husband or I have a sweet tooth.
It fills cravings guilt-free since it is packed with warm, delicate apples, is flavored with cinnamon, and is topped with a crunchy topping. Furthermore, it only yields enough for 3 or 4 people, making it impossible to overeat.
Why You Will Love this Air Fryer Apple Crisp
- Air frying the crisp means you can have this easy dessert ready in less than 30 minutes, a fraction of time it would take to bake in the oven.
- You don’t have to heat up the kitchen to bake this warm apple treat.
- It is made from only a handful of ingredients which are all basic pantry staples, so it takes little to no planning.
- Baked to perfection, this crispy dessert has a streusel style crumble topping and a delicious, classic pie flavor.
- It is healthy – for a dessert.
What Kind of Apples are Best?
Any traditional baked apple will taste good in this simple treat. Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Cortland, and Snap Dragon are a few of my favorite cultivars.
A softer one will bake up mushy since it won’t withstand the heat as well. This includes varietals like McIntosh and Red Delicious.
Other Ingredients
- Brown sugar – The brown sugar flavors both the filling and the crispy topping.
- Apple pie spice – You can buy a premade mixture or use my recipe for homemade apple pie spice. Or you can just substitute ground cinnamon.
- Oatmeal – The oatmeal adds some of the crispiness to the topping. I used quick cooking oats. Old fashioned oats work too, but will result in a chewier topping texture.
- Pecans – Adding nuts to the topping gives it an extra crunch. Walnuts also work well.
- Butter – The butter is cut into the topping. It will both mix with the sugar to create a nice caramelized sauce that coats the fruit and make the crispy oat topping. Cold butter will work best.
Baking Dish for Air Fryer Apple Crisp
Any baking dish that fits in your air fryer and is oven safe is OK. A tiny oval baking dish that holds three to four servings of this crisp is what I chose to use. For cooking in small batches, little ramekins are also a fantastic option because they allow you to make individual apple crisps.
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Crisp
1. Make the Apple Filling
Fruit must be washed and dried. After that, slice it thinly and core it. Since I have a slicer that peels as it turns, I peel my. This fantastic kitchen tool is used frequently in my kitchen during the fall! I get excellent, properly sized apple chunks doing this, and they cook evenly.
However, if you’d rather, you can leave the peels on. They definitely give the finished dish additional color and texture.
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced fruit with half the brown sugar and half the apple pie spice. Then, transfer the apple mixture into the baking dish after thoroughly mixing everything together.
The fruit will cook down as it air frys. So pile the dish up high to start with!
2. Air Fry
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Then put it in the air fryer basket and cook it at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes.
3. Make the Topping
While the apple slices cook make the topping. Combine the remaining brown sugar and pie spice in a separate bowl. Add the oatmeal and chopped pecans and stir to mix.
Cut the butter into small pieces and add it to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter or forks to cut the butter into the topping mixture until it resembles small crumbs.
4. Air Fry Again
Once it finishes cooking take the foil off the top. Carefully spoon the topping mixture on top of the fruit in the baking dish, pressing it down to cover them.
Tip: Keep in mind the air fryer and air fryer basket will be hot! Use hot mitts or silicone kitchen gloves in case you accidentally touch the sides.
Put the basket back inside and air fry it again at 350 F for 5 minutes. The topping will be golden brown when it is done.
How to Serve
When the apple crisp is still warm, it tastes the best. Add some extra deliciousness by topping it with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Just keep in mind that all of those toppings are unhealthy if you’re attempting to make this a healthy dessert! Even without anything on top, it is extremely good.
How to Store
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 2-3 days.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp
You can now add creating this Air Fryer Apple Crisp recipe to your list of fall rituals! Apples that are soft and sweet blend with vanilla and cinnamon. A tasty oatmeal streusel topping is placed on top of everything.
This recipe is a simple air fryer adaptation of a classic apple crumble or apple slab pie.
Ingredients in Air Fryer Apple Crisp
Making this simple apple crisp simply requires a few basic items, and most likely you won’t even need to go outside to the market. That is, if you happen to have some readily available fresh apples.
Here’s what you’ll need to round up from your crisper drawer and your pantry…
- Apples – I like to use two varieties of apples when I bake with them. I think it makes the recipe more fun and tasty! I used Granny Smith apples and Gala.
- Brown sugar – is in the apple crisp as well as the toppings
- Butter
- Vanilla and cinnamon
- Quick oats and flour – make up the topping for the streusel and they’re so yummy! The oats provide the texture we’re used to in an apple crumble or apple crisp. The flour helps to pull the topping all together and soak up some of the juicy apples.
It’s time to get cooking this easy dessert!
How to make air fryer apple crisp
- Wash, peel and core your apples. You can leave the peels on, but I like them off for apple crisp. Give them a chop into about 3/4-inch cubes. We don’t want them too large or they won’t cook all the way through.
- Grab a medium mixing bowl and dump your apples in. Add part of the brown sugar, some of the butter, vanilla and cinnamon. Toss everything together so it’s all deliciously coated.
Spoiler alert: I took two bites of the apple mixture before it made it into the baking dishes. - Spray your ramekins or mini bowls with some cooking spray and divide the apple mixture into them. Top each with a little square of aluminum foil and add to your fryer basket.
- Air fry for 20 minutes until the apples are tender. In the meantime, make the streusel topping. Combine melted butter, oats, flour and the remaining brown sugar.
- When the baking time is done, remove the foil and sprinkle the topping onto each individual crisp. Air fry uncovered for another 5-7 minute until they’re nice and bubbly and the oatmeal topping is golden brown.
Tips
This recipe makes three individual apple crisps. You can share or you can keep them for yourself!
FAQS
What kind of apples should I use?
I like to use two different varieties, usually a tart and a sweet apple. Braeburn, Cortland, Honey Gold, Jonathan, Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith. I’d say pick two of your favorite apples and go for it!
What kind of dishes can I use in the air fryer?
Generally, any baking dish that can be used in the oven can go in the air fryer oven…as long as it fits! Before you fill up your dish, be sure to check to make sure you can close your air fryer basket.
What to serve with air fryer apple crisp
A scoop of vanilla ice, a drizzle of caramel sauce or straight up are all delicious in my opinion
Why make apple crisp in the air fryer?
Making the apple crisp in the air fryer is a great way to put your appliance to use, if we’re being honest!! You have an amazing kitchen gadget sitting on your countertop, so use it!
Also, it heats way faster than a traditional oven. And really, do you need an excuse to fill your kitchen with the smells of delicious dessert?
How to store baked apple crisp
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you can cool your apple crisp, then store in an airtight container in your fridge. It will keep for 3-4 days.
FAQ
What kind of dishes can you use in your air fryer?
In general you can use any oven safe dishes in your air fryer. The only possible exception is glass dishes. I personally prefer not to use glass in my air fryer, because is more likely to shatter.
But many people use glass without any issues, so make your own decision. Silicone dishes and accessories designed for the Instant Pot are great choices for using in the air fryer.
What is the difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
There is no difference between these two desserts. The name that you use varies depending on where you live. Crisp is more commonly used in the US while crumble is used in Great Britain.
How do you reheat apple crisp?
To reheat leftovers put it in the microwave for about 30 seconds. It won’t be quite as crisp as it was when it was first made, but it will still be tasty. You can also just enjoy it cold!
Health Benefits Of Apples
It’s hardly surprising that apples are the most extensively consumed fruit worldwide given that there are over 7,000 different kinds available.
There is an apple for everyone, whether they prefer sweet red kinds like Red Delicious, Fuji, or Gala or tart green ones like Granny Smith — my personal favorite, which I enjoy with lime juice and a little salt when I want a salty snack.
In recipes for things like pies, pastries, muffins, jam, salads, oats, or smoothies, they are frequently utilized. They are also delicious as a snack when cut into wedges and spread with nut butter.
Apples are a particularly nutritious fruit with a wide range of benefits that have been supported by research, in addition to their culinary versatility and a wide variety of hues and flavors.
1. Nutritious
Apples are considered nutrient-dense fruits, meaning they provide a lot of nutrients per serving.
The current Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 2 cups of fruit daily for a 2,000-calorie diet, emphasizing whole fruits, like apples
One medium 7-ounce (200-grams) apple offers the following nutrients :
- Calories: 104
- Carbs: 28 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Copper: 6% of the DV
- Potassium: 5% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 4% of the DV
Vitamins E, B1, and B6 are also present in the same meal at 2-5% of the DV each.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine), often known as vitamin B1, is required for growth and development, whereas vitamin B6 is crucial for protein metabolism. Vitamin E acts as a fat-soluble antioxidant.
A significant class of antioxidants called polyphenols is also abundant in apples. Antioxidants are substances that shield your cells from free radicals, which are dangerous molecules that aid in the development of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Although these plant components are not listed on nutrition labels, they are probably the source of many of apples’ health advantages.
Leave the skin on apples to get the most nutrients out of them as it includes the majority of the polyphenols and half of the fiber.
SUMMARY
Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants, like vitamin E, and polyphenols that contribute to the fruit’s numerous health benefits.
2. May support weight loss
Apples are full because they are high in fiber and water.
An increasing sense of fullness can aid in weight loss because it controls hunger. Consequently, you can decide to consume less energy.
According to one study, compared to drinking apple juice or purée in the same amounts, eating whole apples prolonged feelings of satiety for up to 4 hours. This occurred because entire apples slow down the rate at which your stomach discharges its contents (a condition known as gastric emptying).
Additionally, studies suggest eating apples could considerably lower Body Mass Index (BMI), a measure of weight-related heart disease risk.
It’s interesting to think that apple polyphenols may potentially help prevent obesity.
SUMMARY
Apples are particularly filling due to their high fiber and water content. Their polyphenols may also have anti-obesity effects.
3. Could be good for your heart
Apple consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
They may include soluble fiber, which could be one factor. The blood cholesterol levels can be lowered with the use of this type of fiber.
It’s also possible that they provide polyphenols as a factor. Among these, the flavonoid epicatechin may help decrease blood pressure.
Additionally, studies have connected high flavonoid intake to a reduced risk of stroke.
Additionally, flavonoids, which reduce the building of plaque in your arteries and lower blood pressure, LDL cholesterol oxidation, and atherosclerosis, can help prevent heart disease.
A different study has also connected consumption of foods with white flesh, such as apples and pears, to a lower risk of stroke. The risk of stroke dropped by 9% for every 1/5 cup (25 grams) of apple slices ingested daily.
SUMMARY
Apples promote heart health in several ways. They’re high in soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol. They also have polyphenols, which are linked to lower blood pressure and stroke risk.
4. Linked to a lower risk of diabetes
Apple consumption may also lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Consuming apples and pears was linked to an 18% lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, according to a compilation of studies. In fact, a weekly dose of just one could lower the risk by 3%.
This advantageous result might be due to their high levels of the antioxidant polyphenols quercetin and phloridzin.
The anti-inflammatory properties of quercetin may lessen insulin resistance, a significant risk factor for the development of diabetes. Phloridzin, meantime, may lessen the absorption of sugar in the intestines, resulting in lower blood sugar levels and a decreased chance of developing diabetes.
SUMMARY
Eating apples is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, potentially due to their polyphenol content.
5. May promote gut health
Pectin, a form of fiber that serves as a prebiotic, can be found in apples. This indicates that it nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your stomach, known as the gut microbiota.
Your gut microbiota contributes significantly to your general health by being involved in a wide range of processes that are related to both health and disease. Frequently, the secret to better health is a healthy stomach.
Pectin enters your colon intact because dietary fiber cannot be digested, which helps the growth of healthy bacteria. The ratio of Bacteriodetes to Firmicutes, the two major species of bacteria in your gut, is especially improved by it.
According to recent studies, apples may help prevent chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer by enhancing the gut bacteria.
SUMMARY
The type of fiber found in apples improves your gut-friendly bacteria, which may be why the fruit is thought to help protect against chronic diseases.