Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Learn to make Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats for a quick and healthy dessert that everyone loves. This delightful apple dessert is infused with cinnamon flavor and features a crunchy, sweet oat filling that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a potluck, this recipe will impress your guests while keeping things gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and takes just 35 minutes from start to finish.
• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy a delicious dessert without the guilt; these baked apples are low in calories and packed with fiber.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm on their own or topped with your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of oats, cinnamon, and sweet apples creates a comforting dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste of baked apples, making it an ideal treat for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or melon baller
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks the apples evenly while providing that delightful baked texture without needing an oven.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Spoon or melon baller: Perfect for scooping out apple cores quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Baked 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 Your Air Fryer

Spray the inside of your air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside while you prepare the apples.

Step 2: Prep the Apples

1. Wash your apples thoroughly under running water.
2. Cut each apple in half carefully.
3. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and core from each half.

Step 3: Bake the Apples First

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

Step 4: Make the Oat Filling

While your apples are baking:
1. In a small mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, melted coconut oil, brown sugar (or coconut sugar), and ground cinnamon.
2. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 5: Fill the Apples

1. After baking for 10 minutes, open your air fryer basket.
2. Divide the oat mixture evenly among the apple halves (about 1½ tablespoons per half).

Step 6: Final Cooking Stage

Close the air fryer and cook for an additional 10 minutes until everything is golden brown and fragrant.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Let the baked apples cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious dessert warm as is or add some toppings if desired!

How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats make a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. These warm, cinnamon-infused apples are not only delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with other accompaniments.

With Vanilla Coconut Yogurt

• A dollop of creamy vanilla coconut yogurt adds a rich texture and complements the apple’s sweetness.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Drizzling almond or peanut butter over the baked apples enhances the flavor and adds healthy fats for a satisfying treat.

Served with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream can elevate this dish, making it feel indulgent while still being a healthy option.

Accompanied by a Scoop of Sorbet

• For a refreshing twist, serve these baked apples alongside a scoop of fruit sorbet, which adds a cool contrast to the warm dessert.

Garnished with Chopped Nuts

• Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the soft baked apples.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

To ensure your Air Fryer Baked Apples turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose firm apples: Select fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for optimal texture and flavor after baking.
• Adjust cooking time: If your apples are large, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they soften perfectly.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix in other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and complexity in flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Always use fresh oats and spices for the best taste, ensuring your dessert is flavorful.
• Monitor closely: Keep an eye on the baking process in your air fryer; different models may cook at varying speeds.
• Allow cooling time: Letting the apples cool for a few minutes before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Baked Apples can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Quinoa
   A warm bowl of cinnamon-spiced quinoa provides protein and complements the apple’s flavors perfectly.

2. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance the sweetness of the baked apples while adding crunch.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Savory roasted sweet potatoes offer a hearty contrast to the dessert’s sweetness while being nutritious.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This creamy pudding can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa, serving as a delightful complement.

5. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness to your plate, enhancing the overall meal experience.

6. Oatmeal Cookies
   Serve alongside chewy oatmeal cookies for an extra treat that echoes the oat theme of the baked apples.

7. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt parfaits provide creaminess and freshness that pair nicely with baked apples.

8. Apple Cider Vinaigrette Salad
   A salad drizzled with apple cider vinaigrette highlights apple flavors while adding tanginess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats, some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best outcome.

• Using the wrong type of apples: Not all apples hold up well during cooking. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
• Skipping the pre-baking step: Failing to soften the apples beforehand can lead to a crunchy texture. Always bake them for 10 minutes before adding the oat filling.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise quantities.
• Overfilling the apple halves: Stuffing too much filling can cause it to overflow. Stick to about 1 ½ tablespoons per apple half for perfect results.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into hot apples can result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

• Wrap each apple half individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the apples on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one apple half on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, reheat the apples gently for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats that may help you while preparing this delicious dessert.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes! Pears or peaches also work well and can create delightful variations of this recipe.

How do I make Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free rolled oats instead of regular oats to ensure your dessert is gluten-free.

What other spices can I add to my baked apples?

Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even vanilla extract for added flavor and variety.

How do I know when my baked apples are done?

The apples should be tender but not mushy. A fork should easily pierce through without resistance.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Baked Apples with Oats is a delightful dessert that combines sweet flavors with a satisfying crunch. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different spices. Give it a try, and enjoy this healthy treat!