If you’re craving a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe is exactly what you need. These apples are tender and juicy, bursting with a spiced, nutty filling that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. The combination of crisp fruit, chewy raisins, crunchy nuts, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of flavors that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Plus, it’s a quick, no-fuss dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels special enough for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe just right is all about choosing simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in flavor, texture, and aroma. Here’s what you’ll want on hand to make this delightful Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe:
- Apples: Choose medium Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the perfect balance of sweetness and firmness that holds up well during baking.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and a rich, buttery depth to the filling.
- Raisins or dried cranberries: Bring a chewy, natural sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
- Brown sugar or coconut sugar: Helps create a lovely caramelized finish and adds warmth to the mixture.
- Ground cinnamon: This iconic spice adds warmth and complexity to the apple’s natural sweetness.
- Ground nutmeg: A subtle pinch introduces a cozy, earthy note that lifts the entire flavor profile.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with a sweet, fragrant aroma that ties all the spices together.
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the filling is luscious and not dry.
- Optional vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt: Perfect for serving alongside for a cool, creamy contrast.
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the ideal temperature while you prep your apples. Getting this right upfront ensures even cooking and that perfect tender texture you want.
Step 2: Core the Apples
Carefully remove the core of each apple, but make sure to leave the bottom intact. This creates a cozy little pocket for the filling to stay nestled inside without spilling out as it cooks.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the chopped nuts, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture is well blended and fragrant—this is where all the magic happens!
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Stuff the prepared apples with your spiced nut and raisin mixture, gently pressing it down so each apple is packed with flavorful filling. This ensures every bite delivers a perfect balance.
Step 5: Arrange Apples in the Air Fryer Basket
Place each apple upright in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced apart so the hot air can circulate evenly. This helps the apples cook thoroughly and prevents any mushiness.
Step 6: Cook to Tender Perfection
Air fry the apples for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re tender and the filling is bubbly and caramelized on top. The aroma at this point is irresistible and a sure sign that dessert is ready.
Step 7: Let Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the apples from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, with optional vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt to add a creamy element that complements the sweet, spiced fruit beautifully.
How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling a little extra chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup also adds a lovely glossy finish and a touch more sweetness.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs especially well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt, which cuts through the richness and adds an inviting creaminess. For a brunch or breakfast twist, serve alongside warm oatmeal or fluffy pancakes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the baked apples in rustic ramekins or on pretty dessert plates with a cinnamon stick garnish for a charming touch. You can even hollow out mini apples or pears using this same recipe for an elegant, bite-sized treat perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling completely, store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when chilled, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Freezing
You can freeze baked apples by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for about 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes until warmed through and tender again. This method helps revive the crispy, caramelized top while warming the inside evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala are recommended for their sweetness and firmness, you can experiment with Granny Smith for a tarter option or any crisp apple you enjoy.
Is it possible to make this recipe without nuts?
Yes, you can simply omit the nuts and add extra dried fruit or even some oats for texture. The spices and raisins will still provide plenty of flavor and chewiness.
How do I prevent the apples from getting soggy?
Leaving the bottom of the apples intact and cooking at the right air fryer temperature ensures the apples soften without becoming mushy. Also, spacing them out in the basket allows proper airflow for even cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe without an air fryer?
Definitely! You can bake these apples in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
What are some creative add-ins to try in the filling?
Feel free to experiment with chopped dried apricots, shredded coconut, a pinch of ground cloves, or even a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist to your Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe a try because it’s a simple yet incredibly cozy treat that feels like a celebration of fall any time of year. Its balance of sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors always delights everyone around the table. Once you taste those warm, tender apples filled with luscious spiced nuts and raisins, you’ll see why this has become one of my favorite go-to desserts. Happy cooking!
Print
Air Fryer Baked Apples with Nuts, Raisins, and Spices Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy Air Fryer Baked Apples stuffed with a sweet and spiced nut and dried fruit filling. This quick 30-minute dessert combines tender, caramelized apples with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and a crunchy walnut-raisins mix, perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a healthier and less messy twist on a classic baked dessert. Serve them warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for an extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
Filling
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
Optional Toppings
- Vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready to cook the apples evenly.
- Prepare Apples: Core each apple carefully, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the filling stays inside during cooking.
- Mix Filling: In a small bowl, combine chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins or dried cranberries, brown sugar or coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Stuff Apples: Spoon the filling mixture into the hollowed centers of each apple, pressing it down gently to pack the filling firmly inside.
- Arrange Apples: Place the stuffed apples upright in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced apart and not touching to allow for even air flow and cooking.
- Cook Apples: Air fry the apples at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the apples are tender and the filling is bubbly and caramelized on top.
- Serve: Carefully remove the baked apples from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or any preferred nuts.
- Use dried cranberries or raisins interchangeably depending on your preference.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil and omit the optional ice cream or use a plant-based alternative.
- Choosing sweeter apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji enhances the natural sweetness without extra sugar.
- Keep the bottom of the apple intact when coring to hold the filling securely.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the apples and air fryer model.
