Have you ever craved a warm, cinnamon-spiced dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious? That’s exactly what you get with these Air Fryer Bloomin’ Apples! These apples are delicately spiced and then air-fried to perfection, giving you a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, juicy center. It’s a unique twist on the traditional apple dessert, and with the help of your air fryer, it’s also quick and easy to prepare.
I love this recipe because it combines the sweetness of apples with a cozy, cinnamon flavor. It’s perfect for fall or any time you’re in the mood for a treat that feels indulgent but is actually pretty light. And the best part? You can make it in your air fryer, which means less oil and a quicker cook time without compromising on flavor. Let’s dive into this delicious treat!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
To make these Air Fryer Bloomin’ Apples, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that come together to create a delightful dessert. Let’s take a look at each one.
Apples: The star of the show! You’ll need firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for this recipe. They hold up well during the air frying process and provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Butter: This adds richness and helps give the apples that golden, crispy texture on the outside. Melted butter is brushed on each apple to ensure that delicious crisp.
Brown Sugar: This will give your apples that deep, caramelized sweetness. It also helps in creating that beautiful sugary crust on top.
Cinnamon: The classic spice to pair with apples! Cinnamon adds warmth and a comforting flavor that complements the tartness of the apples perfectly.
Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg enhances the depth of the cinnamon flavor and adds a cozy, spiced touch to the apples.
Vanilla Extract: A little splash of vanilla extract adds an aromatic sweetness that brings all the flavors together.
Chopped Pecans: These give the dish a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the apples and the spice blend.
Ingredients List
- 4 medium-sized Granny Smith apples
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Bloomin’ Apples
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by washing the apples thoroughly. Use a sharp knife to cut out the core of each apple, leaving the bottom intact. You’ll want to create a flower-like pattern by slicing the apples into thin wedges, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well-mixed. This mixture will be used to coat the apples and give them their sweet, spiced flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Apples
Place the apple slices in a bowl and drizzle them with melted butter. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the apples, ensuring that each slice is coated evenly. If you’re using chopped pecans, sprinkle them on top for extra texture.
Step 4: Air Fry the Apples
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the prepared apples in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spread out in a single layer. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the edges are golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the apples are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, and enjoy the crispy, sweet, and spiced apple goodness!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use firm apples: Granny Smith apples work best because they hold their shape well while cooking, but you can use other firm apples like Honeycrisp if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the apples while they’re in the air fryer. Overcooking them can cause them to become mushy.
- Add a scoop of ice cream: These bloomin’ apples are even better when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Experiment with other spices: Feel free to mix in some ground ginger or allspice for a different flavor twist.
- Nuts are optional: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try swapping them for walnuts or leaving them out entirely.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe? Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe due to their tartness and firmness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala for a sweeter taste.
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or microwave to enjoy again!
Can I make these bloomin’ apples ahead of time? You can prepare the apples and coat them with the sugar and butter mixture in advance, then store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply air fry them as directed.
Are these apples healthy? These apples are a lighter option compared to deep-fried desserts, but they are still a treat! You can make them a bit healthier by reducing the sugar or skipping the pecans.