Air Fryer Apple Crisps: A Quick, Easy Treat

Air fryers are a great way to make apple crisps, providing a healthier alternative to potato crisps. They are easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients, such as apples, cinnamon, and coconut oil or sugar. The apples are thinly sliced and cooked in the air fryer until they are crispy, providing a crunchy and sweet snack. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on taste.

Choosing the right apples

Pink Lady apples are a popular choice for apple crisps due to their ideal level of sweetness. Gala apples, Fuji apples, Honeycrisp apples, and Red Delicious apples are also excellent options, offering a good balance of sweetness and crispness. If you prefer a tarter flavour, Granny Smith apples can be used, but this recipe generally works best with sweeter apples.

When selecting apples, it is important to choose fresh, high-quality fruit. Avoid apples that are bruised or damaged, as they may not slice or cook evenly. Look for apples that are firm to the touch, with smooth, brightly coloured skin. The ideal apple will also feel heavy for its size, indicating that it is juicy and packed with flavour.

For the best results, it is recommended to use a mandolin slicer to achieve thin, uniform slices. The ideal thickness for apple crisps is about 1/8 of an inch. If you don't have a mandolin, you can use a sharp knife to carefully cut the apples by hand. Just ensure that the slices are as thin and consistent as possible for even cooking.

With the right apples and slicing technique, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious air fryer apple crisps that are both crunchy and full of flavour!

Preparing the apples

• Wash and dry your apples: Start by giving your apples a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Then, dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.
• Slice the apples: Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the apples into thin slices. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. You can cut out the core or leave it in, depending on your preference. Removing the core will give the apple slices a donut shape, while leaving it in will create a fun star shape in the middle.
• Sprinkle with spices: This is where you can get creative. For a classic cinnamon flavour, sprinkle ground cinnamon generously over the apple slices. You can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or a pinch of sugar for added sweetness. Make sure to coat both sides of the apple slices.
• Arrange in the air fryer: Place the spiced apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, trying not to overlap them too much. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispness. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the apples in batches.
• Cooking instructions: Set your air fryer to the recommended temperature, which is typically between 300-380 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the apple slices for 10-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer.

Remember, the key to successful air fryer apple crisps is thin, evenly sliced apples and proper cooking time. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious and healthy apple crisps!

Air fryer temperature

Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to 300°F, which is the temperature at which you will cook your apple crisps. At this temperature, you can expect a cooking time of around 12-15 minutes for the first side and an additional 10 minutes after flipping the apple slices.

However, some recipes suggest a higher temperature of 350°F to 380°F for a shorter cooking time. For example, one recipe instructs preheating the air fryer to 350°F and cooking the apples for 10 minutes, covered with foil, before removing the foil and cooking for another 10 minutes.

It's important to note that air fryer models vary, so cooking times and temperatures may need adjustment. Thinner apple slices will also cook faster, and overlapping slices may require longer cooking times.

Additionally, the ideal temperature for crisping apple slices after cooking is room temperature. Allowing the apple slices to cool for at least 5 minutes, or even up to 15-30 minutes, helps them crisp up.

Seasoning

Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a classic spice that pairs exceptionally well with apples. It adds warmth and sweetness to the apple crisps. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon to your taste preferences. If you're a cinnamon lover, feel free to add a generous amount. However, if you're not a fan, you can reduce the quantity or even omit it altogether.

Sugar: A sprinkle of sugar can enhance the sweetness of your apple crisps. White granulated sugar is commonly used, but you can also experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavour. If you prefer a healthier option, consider reducing the amount of sugar or omitting it altogether, as apples naturally contain some sweetness.

Apple Pie Spice: If you want to take your apple crisps to the next level, try using apple pie spice. This spice blend typically includes cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg, creating a delightful combination of flavours that complement the apples perfectly. You can make your own homemade apple pie spice mix or purchase it pre-made.

Nutmeg, Ginger, and Other Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg and ginger. These spices add a subtle warmth and complexity to your apple crisps. You can also try a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice for a seasonal twist during the fall.

Salt: While it may seem unconventional, a tiny pinch of salt can enhance the natural sweetness of the apples and bring out the flavours of the other spices. It's best to use a small amount, as too much salt can overpower the other flavours.

When seasoning your apple crisps, it's important to sprinkle the spices evenly over the apple slices. You can also toss the slices gently to ensure they are well-coated. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but it's difficult to remove it if you've added too much. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preferences.

Additionally, if you want to make your apple crisps sweeter without adding more sugar, you can use alternatives like maple syrup or honey. However, these liquids may affect the texture of your apple crisps, so experiment with small batches first.

Storing

It is important to note that air fryer apple crisps will lose their crispness over time, even if stored in an airtight container. Therefore, it is best to make them fresh and consume them soon after cooking for the best texture and taste.

If you want to prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture ahead of time, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions