Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Name: Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 3 red or green apples; 1/3 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary); 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil; 3 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Published: July 8, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Health-Conscious: Made with wholesome ingredients such as oats and apples, it’s a guilt-free dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add nuts and dried fruits to the oat filling based on your personal preference.
Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen while they learn how to prepare a healthy dessert they will love!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Air Fryer Baked Apples, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick air fryer basket
Mixing bowl
Spoon or melon baller
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick air fryer basket: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking for perfectly baked apples.
Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without any mess.
Spoon or melon baller: Helps scoop out the apple cores quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Apples

Nonstick cooking spray
3 Red or green apples

For the Oat Filling

1/3 cup rolled oats (gluten-free, if necessary)
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
3 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Spray the inside of your air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Apples

Wash your apples thoroughly. Cut them in half and use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and core from each half.

Step 3: Bake the Apples First

Lay the apples skin side down in the basket of your air fryer. If they don’t lay flat, slice a tiny amount of skin off to help them balance. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes to soften them.

Step 4: Make the Oat Filling

While the apples are baking, combine rolled oats, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Fill the Apples

After 10 minutes of baking, open the air fryer basket. Use a spoon to divide the oat mixture evenly between each apple half (about 1 ½ tablespoons per half).

Step 6: Final Bake

Close the air fryer again and cook for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Allow the baked apples to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm dessert on its own or topped with your favorite plant-based yogurt!

How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats make for a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, these baked apples will impress everyone with their warm, sweet flavors.

Delightful Pairings

Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy treat adds a rich contrast to the warm apples.
Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping enhances the cinnamon flavor and adds sweetness.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and healthy fats.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a bit of caramel for an indulgent touch that complements the natural sweetness of the apples.
Greek Yogurt Alternative: For a protein boost, serve with a plant-based yogurt that mimics the creaminess of Greek yogurt.

Breakfast Twist

Granola Topping: Crumble some granola over the baked apples for extra texture and flavor in your morning routine.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Perfecting your Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time.

Bold choice of apples: Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for optimal texture and flavor.
Bold sugar alternatives: Experiment with maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar for a unique taste.
Bold baking time: Adjust cooking time based on apple size; larger apples may need a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
Bold seasoning choices: Enhance flavors by adding nutmeg or ginger to the oat mixture for more depth.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Baked Apples can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Cinnamon Quinoa: This protein-rich grain cooked with cinnamon offers a nutty flavor that complements the baked apples perfectly.
Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide a sweet and savory balance alongside the dessert.
Chia Seed Pudding: A light pudding made from chia seeds adds nutrition and can be flavored with vanilla or fruit juice.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and add brightness to your meal.
Oatmeal Cookies: Pairing these cookies brings together similar flavors, making them an ideal companion.
Nut Butter Toasts: Whole grain toast topped with almond or cashew butter delivers crunch and creaminess, enhancing your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

Using the wrong apple variety – Not all apples are ideal for baking. Choose apples that hold their shape, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, for the best results.
Neglecting to core the apples – Failing to remove the seeds and core can lead to unpleasant bites. Be sure to scoop them out thoroughly before filling.
Overstuffing the apple halves – Adding too much oat mixture can cause spills and uneven cooking. Stick to about 1 ½ tablespoons per half for even baking.
Skipping the pre-baking step – This crucial step softens the apples for better texture. Don’t skip it; bake them for 10 minutes first!
Ignoring the cooling time – Serving immediately after cooking can lead to burns. Allow the apples to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving for optimal enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Let them cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and place apples on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Place apple halves on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on high in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats.

Can I use different oats in Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats or steel-cut oats, but rolled oats provide the best texture and flavor balance in this recipe.

How can I customize my Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or different spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance flavors and textures according to your taste preferences.

What other fruits can I use besides apples?

Pears or peaches work well as alternatives if you want to switch things up while still enjoying a delicious baked fruit dessert.

Are Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is entirely gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. With its sweet cinnamon flavor and crunchy oat topping, it’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits to make it your own!

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