Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like indulging in the warm, comforting flavors of fall. One delightful way to celebrate the season is with Air Fryer Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bites—an easy-to-make snack that encapsulates the essence of autumn in every bite. These little pockets of goodness combine sweet, juicy apples with fragrant cinnamon and a satisfying crunch, all while being surprisingly guilt-free thanks to the air fryer.
Perfect for an afternoon treat, a cozy family dessert, or a festive gathering, these Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bites not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly awaiting the first bite. Plus, they come together in just a fraction of the time of traditional baked desserts, making them a quick option for those busy fall days.
So, grab your favorite apples, sprinkle on some cinnamon, and let’s whip up a batch of these delectable bites that will surely become a seasonal favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and diced)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for coating
Instructions
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- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
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- In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, melted butter, vanilla extract, and if using, the chopped nuts. Mix until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture.
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- Take spoonfuls of the apple mixture and form small bites, approximately the size of a golf ball. Gently roll them in the oat mixture to coat well.
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- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
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- Place the apple crisp bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching each other for even cooking. You may need to work in batches.
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- Cook in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and the apples are tender, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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- Once done, carefully remove the bites from the basket and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Apples: 2-3 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped.
- Oats: 1 cup rolled oats for a chewy texture that complements the apples.
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup packed to add sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for that warm, cozy spice essential for fall.
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors.
- Flour: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative) to bind the mixture.
- Butter or Coconut Oil: 1/4 cup melted for a rich texture; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for added depth of flavor.
- Pinch of Salt: To balance the sweetness and enhance overall flavor.
- Optional Topping: Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for added crunch, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for serving.
Feel free to customize these ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs!
Baking Process
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Prepare the Apples: Start by washing and peeling 2-3 medium-sized apples of your choice (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully). Core them and cut them into small bite-sized cubes. Place the apple pieces in a mixing bowl.
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Add the Flavor: To the apples, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference), and a pinch of nutmeg. Toss the apple cubes well to ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
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Make the Crisp Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and another 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix in 1/4 cup of melted butter or a dairy-free alternative, and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Assemble the Bites: Take a mini muffin pan or silicone molds and lightly grease them with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spoon a small amount of the apple mixture into each compartment, filling them about halfway. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of the crisp topping over the apples to create a delightful, crunchy layer.
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Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Once preheated, place the muffin pan or silicone molds carefully into the air fryer basket. Cook the apple cinnamon crisp bites for 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
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Cooling Time: Once done, carefully remove the bites from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes before taking them out of the pan. This step is crucial to ensure they hold their shape.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve warm, either as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Feel free to sprinkle some additional cinnamon on top for an extra flavor kick!
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Storage: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the air fryer for a quick snack!
Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bites that perfectly capture the essence of fall!
Serving Suggestions
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With Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your Air Fryer Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bites warm alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrasting temperatures and textures create a delightful treat that’s perfect for autumn.
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Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Elevate the sweetness by drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the crisp bites. This adds a rich, indulgent flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples and cinnamon.
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Accompany with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add lightness and a touch of decadence. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra festive touch.
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Pair with Hot Beverages: These bites make a great accompaniment to a warm beverage. Serve them with hot apple cider, spiced chai tea, or a cozy pumpkin spice latte for an autumnal treat.
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Create a Dessert Charcuterie Board: Arrange the crisp bites on a festive charcuterie board alongside sliced apples, nuts, and small bowls of dips like caramel or chocolate sauce. This is perfect for gatherings and adds a beautiful fall aesthetic.
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Top with Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve the warm bites with a dollop of Greek yogurt. This adds protein and creates a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
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Sprinkle with Nuts: Enhance the texture by topping the Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bites with finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts. This adds both flavor and crunch, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Serve at Room Temperature: If you prefer, these bites can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making them perfect for potlucks or picnics. Just pack them in a nice container and they’ll still be delicious!
Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions based on your preferences, and enjoy these autumn-inspired treats to their fullest!
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bites are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall while satisfying your sweet tooth. With their crispy exterior and tender, spiced apple filling, they make for a delightful snack or dessert that can be enjoyed any time of day. The air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also delivers a healthier twist on a classic treat, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can swap out the apples for your favorite fruits, or experiment with different spices to customize the flavor. Whether you’re sharing them with friends at a cozy gathering or indulging yourself during a quiet evening at home, these crisp bites are sure to impress and bring warmth to your fall festivities.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy the wonderful aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen. Happy snacking!
