Air-Fried Apple Crisp: A Quick, Easy Treat

Yes, you can make apple crisp in an air fryer! This cooking method is perfect for small portions and can be made in less than 15 minutes. The ingredients are simple and flexible: any type of apple works, and you can use butter or coconut oil, cinnamon, and maple syrup or brown sugar to taste. The air fryer temperature should be set to between 300-360°F, and the apple crisp will be ready in 10-15 minutes. For an extra indulgent treat, top with ice cream or whipped cream.

Choosing the right apple

When making apple crisp, it's important to choose the right type of apple to ensure the best flavour and texture. The best apples for baking keep their structure under heat, preventing the apple chunks from turning mushy.

Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for baking due to their delightful tart flavour, which blends well with sweeter apples. They are also well-known for their high acidity, making them perfect for a sweet apple crisp topping. Honeycrisp apples are another excellent choice for apple crisp as they are very crisp and intensely sweet, with a slight snap.

If you prefer a softer apple, Golden Delicious apples are a great option. They are sweet and mellow, and their flavour intensifies when baked. Jonagold apples are another good choice for a softer apple that can hold its shape while cooking.

For a firm and crisp apple, consider Braeburn, Fuji, or Crispin (also known as Mutsu) varieties. Braeburn apples bake up juicy but not mushy, with an intense flavour that pairs well with fall spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Fuji apples are very sweet, juicy, and crisp, making them an ideal choice for a juicy apple crisp. Crispin apples have a firm and crisp consistency that holds their shape during baking, with a lightly tart flavour to balance out their sweet taste.

When choosing apples for your air fryer apple crisp, consider the balance of sweet and tart flavours, as well as the firmness and crispness of the apples to ensure the best texture and taste.

How to make apple crisp in an air fryer

Making apple crisp in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious dessert:

Ingredients:

• Apples (any variety or combination works)
• Unsalted butter
• White sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Rolled oats
• All-purpose flour
• Brown sugar
• Lemon juice
• Ice cream or whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Butter a small oven-safe dish that will fit into your air fryer.
• Combine apples, a small amount of water, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
• Place the dish in the air fryer and set the timer for 10 minutes.
• Remove the foil and stir the apples. Replace the foil and set the timer for another 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, make the topping by combining rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter in a separate bowl. Mix until it forms a crumbly texture.
• Remove the foil from the air fryer and sprinkle the topping over the apples.
• Air fry for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
• Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving.
• For an extra indulgent treat, top with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Tips:

• Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, for a balance of flavors.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, peel the apples before cooking. Leaving the skin on adds a rustic vibe and extra fiber.
• For a nuttier flavor and extra crunch, mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into your topping.
• Apple crisp is best served warm, straight from the air fryer.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to regain that crispy topping.

Tips for making the best apple crisp

Choosing the Right Apples

Select a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. This combination ensures the perfect balance of flavours in every bite. Gala, Golden Delicious, Braeburn, and Pink Lady apples also work well.

To Peel or Not to Peel

For a smoother texture, peel the apples. However, if you prefer a more rustic texture and want to retain some extra fibre, you can leave the skins on.

Use the Right Dish

Use a small, oven-safe dish that fits snugly in your air fryer. If the dish is too big, the apple crisp may not cook evenly. A snug dish ensures the apples and topping cook together perfectly.

Don't Overcrowd

Spread the topping evenly over the apples, ensuring you don't overcrowd the dish. A thin, even layer guarantees everything crisps up perfectly without becoming soggy.

Check for Doneness

Air fry at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, but keep an eye on it. The apples should be tender, and the topping should be golden brown and crisp. If the topping browns too quickly, lower the temperature slightly or cover with foil.

Add a Nutty Twist

For extra crunch and flavour, mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into your topping. They toast beautifully in the air fryer, adding a satisfying crunch to your apple crisp.

Serve Fresh

Apple crisp is best served warm, straight from the air fryer. For an indulgent treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storing leftover apple crisp

Storing in the Refrigerator:

Allow the apple crisp to cool completely before storing it. Set the baking pan on a wire rack and let it cool to room temperature for about 2-3 hours. Storing it while still warm will cause condensation, leading to a soggy crisp. Once cooled, you have two options:

• Keep it in the baking dish: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent air from compromising the texture. You can also add a layer of paper towels to absorb any residual moisture.
• Transfer to airtight containers: Portion the apple crisp into individual containers or a larger airtight container. This helps protect against soggy leftovers and makes it easier to grab a quick treat!

The apple crisp can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-5 days. However, it is recommended to consume it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Storing in the Freezer:

If you plan to store your apple crisp for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Follow the same initial steps as for refrigeration by allowing it to cool completely. Then:

• Wrap tightly: Use aluminium foil or plastic wrap to securely seal the apple crisp, protecting it from freezer burn and moisture loss.
• Place in an airtight container: Choose a container that accommodates the crisp without crushing it, providing further protection from the elements.
• Freeze for up to 3 months: According to the USDA, frozen leftovers are safe indefinitely, but for best results, consume within 3 months to enjoy the crisp at its finest.

Storing Different Types of Apple Crisp:

The storage methods described above are versatile and can be applied to various types of apple crisp, including traditional apple crisp and gluten-free apple crisp.

Reheating Apple Crisp:

When it's time to indulge in your stored apple crisp again, there are a few reheating methods to choose from:

• Microwave: For individual portions, place the apple crisp on a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-60 seconds.
• Oven: For larger portions, preheat the oven to 350°F and heat for 15-20 minutes. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent with aluminium foil.
• Toaster oven: For a small portion, set the toaster oven to 350°F and bake for 15-30 minutes.

If your apple crisp has been frozen, remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for several hours before reheating.

Tips for Maintaining Crispness:

To ensure your apple crisp retains its delightful texture:

• Use a combination of oats and flour in the topping for added crispiness.
• Bake until the topping is golden brown to achieve that perfect crunch.
• Avoid overmixing the topping to prevent a dense texture.
• Reheat in short intervals to preserve crispiness and avoid overcooking.

By following these comprehensive guidelines, your leftover apple crisp will remain a delightful treat, ready to be savoured again and again!

Serving suggestions

Apple crisp is a versatile dessert that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• A la mode: Top your apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgent treat. The cold, creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, crispy apple filling.
• Whipped Cream: For a lighter option, top your apple crisp with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cream will melt into the warm apples, creating a delicious sauce.
• Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over your apple crisp for a decadent touch. The sweet and salty combination will elevate your dessert.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: If you're looking for a dairy-free option, top your apple crisp with coconut whipped cream. It's a delicious and creamy alternative.
• Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve your apple crisp with a side of Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy and creamy element to your dessert.
• Nuts: Add some chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts to your apple crisp for an extra crunchy and nutty flavour.
• Single Serving: Apple crisp can also be made as individual servings, perfect for portion control or when you don't want to share!

Feel free to get creative with your toppings and mix and match to suit your taste preferences. Apple crisp is a versatile dessert that can be customised to your liking.

Frequently asked questions