Introduction
If you’re craving a sweet and satisfying treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, then Quick Air Fryer Apple Crisp Bites are about to become your new favorite go-to snack! With the perfect balance of tender baked apples, a deliciously crumbly topping, and the irresistible flavor of warm spices, these little bites pack all the comfort of a traditional apple crisp into a quick, easy, and healthy package.
Made in an air fryer, these delightful morsels cook up in a fraction of the time it takes to prepare a full-sized dessert, making them perfect for a busy weekday evening or a spontaneous gathering with friends. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time—ideal for satisfying those sweet cravings without the guilt.
Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack, a cozy dessert, or even a breakfast treat, these Apple Crisp Bites are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Grab your air fryer and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Cooking spray for air fryer
Instructions
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- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
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- In a large bowl, mix the diced apples with lemon juice, ensuring they’re well coated.
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- In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
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- Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture and mix until crumbly. If using, add the chopped nuts and stir to combine.
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- Gently fold the apples into the crumbly oat mixture, ensuring the apples are coated well.
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- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the apple mixture into the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each bite.
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- Air fry the bites for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the apples are tender.
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- Once cooked, carefully remove the bites and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 22 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Apples: 2 medium-sized, peeled, cored, and diced (varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, to enhance the sweetness and provide caramelization
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, for a warm and comforting flavor
- Oats: 1/2 cup, rolled oats provide a crunchy texture
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons, to help bind the crisp topping
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, for richness and flavor (can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- Chopped Nuts: 1/4 cup (like pecans or walnuts), optional, for added crunch
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, to elevate the overall flavor
- Salt: A pinch, to balance the sweetness
These ingredients come together to create delightful bites that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without a lot of fuss!
Baking Process
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Prepare the Apples: Start by washing, peeling, and coring 2-3 medium-sized apples. You can use your favorite variety, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work particularly well. Cut the apples into small bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
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Add Flavor: To the apple pieces, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg, if you like. Toss the apples gently until they are evenly coated in the sugar and spices. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes to release some juices.
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Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option), 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to combine. Next, add 1/4 cup of melted butter (or coconut oil) and mix until the mixture clumps together.
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Assemble the Bites: Line the bottom of an air fryer basket with parchment paper or use a silicone mat for easier cleanup. Distribute the apple mixture evenly across the parchment and then top it generously with the crisp topping, pressing down slightly to secure it.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that perfectly crispy topping.
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Air Fry the Bites: Place the assembled apple crisp bites into the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through. The apples should be tender, and the topping should be golden brown and crisp.
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Cool and Serve: Once done, carefully remove the bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They can be enjoyed warm and are delightful on their own, or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Enjoy your quick and tasty air fryer apple crisp bites!
Serving Suggestions
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Ala Mode Delight: Serve your apple crisp bites warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of hot and cold will elevate this snack to new heights!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the crisp bites for an extra indulgent treat. This sweet addition complements the cinnamon apple flavor beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of your apple crisp bites before serving. This will add a lovely crunch and boost the overall flavor profile.
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Fresh Fruit Pairing: Pair the apple crisp bites with a side of fresh fruit, such as slices of pear or berries. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing contrast to the warm bites.
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Cheese Board Treat: Include your apple crisp bites as part of a cheese board. They pair wonderfully with creamy cheeses like Brie or tangy cheeses like goat cheese, creating a delightful sweet and savory combination.
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Tea Time Snack: Serve these bites during tea time alongside your favorite herbal or black tea. The warmth of the bites will complement the soothing nature of tea perfectly.
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Pack for School or Work: These bites are also great for on-the-go snacking! Pack them in a small container for a sweet afternoon treat at school or work.
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Garnish with Mint: For a pop of color and freshness, garnish your apple crisp bites with a few fresh mint leaves before serving. This adds a hint of freshness that will surprise your taste buds!
Each of these suggestions helps to highlight the delightful flavors of your Quick Air Fryer Apple Crisp Bites, making them a versatile snack for any occasion! Enjoy experimenting and sharing with friends and family!
Conclusion
These Quick Air Fryer Apple Crisp Bites are the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up this delicious snack in a matter of minutes, satisfying your sweet cravings without the fuss. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a crunchy, golden topping creates a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Whether you enjoy them as an after-school snack, a dessert for a cozy evening in, or a quick sweet fix while entertaining guests, these bites are sure to impress. Plus, the air fryer ensures a crispy finish with less oil than traditional frying methods, making them a slightly healthier option for dessert lovers. Don’t forget to serve them warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful apple crisp bites—you’ll be glad you did! Happy snacking!
