I absolutely love making desserts that not only taste incredible but are also a bit unexpected. The air fryer has become my go-to kitchen gadget, and today, I’m going to share with you a recipe for Air Fryer Apple Pie. It’s the perfect combination of warm, spiced apples and a buttery, flaky crust – all made in a fraction of the time compared to the traditional oven method. This air fryer version gives the pie an extra crispy finish while keeping the filling tender and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just looking for an easy, delicious treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
What I love most about this air fryer apple pie is how customizable it is. You can make it with store-bought pie crusts for a quicker prep, or use your favorite homemade dough for that extra touch. Plus, you can get creative with the filling—add extra cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, or even a bit of caramel for a unique twist. So, let’s get started and make an air fryer apple pie that will surely become a family favorite!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Pie Crust: The base of your pie, which can be either homemade or store-bought. If you’re looking for convenience, pre-made crusts work just fine. The pie crust provides that delicious, buttery layer that complements the sweet and spiced apple filling.
Apples: The star ingredient! You’ll want to use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape during cooking and offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them ideal for apple pie.
Cinnamon: This warm spice brings all the flavors of autumn together. It adds that familiar, comforting aroma to the apple filling and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the apple filling, helping to balance out the tartness of the apples. You can adjust the amount depending on your preference for sweetness.
Butter: Butter adds richness to the filling and gives it a slightly creamy texture. It also enhances the flavor of the apples and cinnamon.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice adds a touch of acidity, which helps bring out the natural flavors of the apples and cuts through the sweetness.
Cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken the apple filling, ensuring it’s not too runny after cooking. Cornstarch creates a smooth, silky texture for the filling.
Egg Wash: Made by whisking together an egg with a bit of water, this is brushed over the pie crust before air frying to give it that golden, flaky finish.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 package (2) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated. The cornstarch helps thicken the juices as the apples cook, so your filling doesn’t end up too runny.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out one pie crust on a clean surface and fit it into your air fryer’s basket or tray, pressing gently along the edges. Leave a little excess around the edges so that you can fold them over for a rustic look. Once it’s in place, spoon the apple mixture into the crust, then dot the apples with butter.
Step 3: Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips or use it whole as a top layer. Place it over the apples, and if you used strips, create a lattice design. Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges together to seal. Brush the top with the egg wash to ensure a beautiful golden finish.
Step 4: Air Fry the Pie
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to check it after 10 minutes and cover the edges with foil if they start browning too quickly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once the pie is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the filling to set. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling to your taste.
- Experiment with different apple varieties. A mix of sweet and tart apples can add depth of flavor to the pie.
- For a more rustic look, skip the lattice and use the second pie crust as a full cover, cutting a few slits to allow steam to escape.
- If you’re making the pie ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to a month. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to bake.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the pie while it cooks, as air fryer models can vary in temperature and cook time.
FAQs
Can I make this apple pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the pie ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to bake it before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What type of apples are best for apple pie?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great for pie because they hold their shape well when baked and offer a balance of tartness and sweetness.
Can I use a different crust for this recipe?
Yes! If you prefer a gluten-free crust or a different type of dough, feel free to substitute. The recipe will still work just as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover apple pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer storage.