This Air Fryer Apple Crisp is a warm and comforting dessert made with sweet, juicy apples and a crunchy oat topping. It’s easy to whip up and cooks quickly!
I love how the air fryer makes the topping perfectly crispy while keeping the apples tender. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream—it’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are my favorites for this recipe because they balance sweetness and tartness well. If they’re not available, feel free to use Fuji, Braeburn, or any other firm apple that holds up well when cooked.
Lemon Juice: This helps enhance the apple flavor and prevents browning. If you’re out of fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled juice or even a splash of apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give the perfect crunchy topping. Quick oats can be used for a finer texture, but I recommend staying away from instant oats, as they can turn mushy.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can work great here too!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crunchy Topping?
Getting that wonderful crunch is all about the right mixing and cooking method. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use cold butter when mixing with the dry ingredients. This helps create a flaky topping.
- Work the butter into the mixture until it’s crumbly but not fully blended. This will give that desired texture.
- Spread the topping evenly over the apples before cooking to ensure even browning.
- Keep an eye on it as it cooks! Air fryers can vary, but you’re looking for a golden brown finish on top.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 18-22 minutes to cook in the air fryer. With minimal effort and time, you can enjoy a warm, homemade apple crisp in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by placing the sliced apples in a mixing bowl. Drizzle the lemon juice over the apples and then add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss everything together to make sure the apples are well coated in the mixture. Let them sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.
2. Make the Oat Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt. Once combined, add the cold cubed butter into the bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This will give your topping that perfect crunch!
3. Assemble the Dish:
Lightly grease a small baking dish or individual ramekins that can fit in your air fryer. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the oat topping generously over the apples to create a lovely, crunchy layer.
4. Air Fry It!
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the baking dish or ramekins into the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-22 minutes, checking occasionally. You’re looking for the topping to become golden brown and the apples to be tender and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s done, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the apple crisp warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if desired. Enjoy this cozy treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! In addition to Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, you can use Fuji, Braeburn, or even a mix of your favorite apples. Choose firm varieties that hold up well during cooking for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and oat topping a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, layer them in the baking dish and air fry as instructed.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Air Fryer Apple Crisp?
This apple crisp is delicious on its own, but serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level! You can also pair it with caramel sauce or a sprinkle of nuts for added flavor and texture.
