Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Wedges — Quick, Crispy Snack

The first bite is warm, fragrant, and slightly caramelized at the edges. Air fryer cinnamon apple wedges lock in juicy apple flesh while giving you a crisp, browned exterior in minutes — perfect for snacks or a light dessert. I developed and tested this version over eight trial runs at home to balance spice, sweetness, and crispness. The trick is a light coating of fat and sugar and an even single layer in the basket. Below is the version I’ve settled on after refining the temperature, timing, and apple selection for the best texture and flavor. Read on for the full recipe, pro tips, and make-ahead notes.

Why This Recipe Works

A thin coating of butter and brown sugar caramelizes quickly in the air fryer, creating crisp edges without drying the interior.
The quick, high heat (190°C/375°F) concentrates the apples’ natural sugars, producing a roasted flavor in under 15 minutes.
A splash of lemon juice prevents browning and brightens the final taste.
Tossing the wedges in a small amount of oil or melted butter ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
Slicing wedges to a consistent thickness guarantees uniform cooking and crispness.

Ingredients Breakdown

Apples — 680 g (about 4 medium) firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. Role: structure and natural sweetness. Substitution: softer apples (e.g., McIntosh) will break down more; reduce cook time by 1–2 minutes.
Unsalted butter — 28 g (2 tbsp), melted. Role: helps caramelize and carry spices. Substitution: use 30 ml (2 tbsp) neutral oil (canola, avocado) for dairy-free — result will be less rich.
Brown sugar — 25 g (2 tbsp), packed. Role: promotes caramelization and adds molasses note. Substitution: coconut sugar or maple syrup (15 ml/1 tbsp) — expect a different flavor and slightly less crispness.
Ground cinnamon — 2 tsp (about 4 g). Role: signature warm spice.
Ground nutmeg — 1/8 tsp (pinch). Role: adds depth; optional.
Lemon juice — 15 ml (1 tbsp). Role: prevents oxidation and brightens flavor.
Kosher salt — 1/8 tsp (a small pinch). If using Morton’s kosher salt, use 1/4 tsp (it’s denser).
Optional: 15 ml (1 tbsp) maple syrup or honey for glazing after cooking. Role: extra shine and sweetness.

Essential Equipment

Air fryer with a basket large enough to hold a single layer of wedges. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches.
Sharp chef’s knife or apple slicer for even wedges.
Mixing bowl (medium) for tossing.
Small bowl for melted butter or oil.
Instant-read thermometer is optional but helpful when testing doneness for larger fruit pieces.

If you don’t own an air fryer, use a 200°C (400°F) oven on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment and bake for 14–18 minutes, turning once.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Time and yield info: Prep Time 10 minutes, Cook Time 12–16 minutes, Inactive Time None, Total Time about 22–26 minutes. Serves 4 (about 1 cup per serving).

Step 1: Choose and wash the apples

Select 4 medium firm apples (about 680 g total). Wash and dry them thoroughly; firm apples hold their shape. Cut each apple into 8 wedges (core removed) for roughly 32 wedges total.

Step 2: Make the spice mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together 25 g (2 tbsp) packed brown sugar, 4 g (2 tsp) ground cinnamon, a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) nutmeg, and a small pinch (1/8 tsp) kosher salt. This blend evenly flavors the wedges.

Step 3: Toss wedges with butter and lemon

Combine 28 g (2 tbsp) melted unsalted butter and 15 ml (1 tbsp) lemon juice in a medium bowl. Add the apple wedges and toss to coat for about 30–45 seconds until glossy and lightly coated.

Step 4: Coat with sugar-spice mix

Sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mix over the butter-coated wedges and toss gently for 30 seconds until evenly distributed. Do not overcoat — a light dusting gives caramelization without sogginess.

Step 5: Arrange in the air fryer basket

Place wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping; you may need to work in two batches. Shake the basket or rearrange after 6 minutes for even browning.

Step 6: Air-fry until caramelized

Air-fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes for thin wedges, or 12–16 minutes for thicker wedges, flipping or shaking the basket halfway. Look for golden-brown edges and tender flesh; test a wedge with a fork — it should pierce easily.

Step 7: Finish and serve

If using, brush 15 ml (1 tbsp) maple syrup or honey on the hot wedges for shine. Serve warm with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Expert Tips & Pro Techniques

Slice uniformly: Use a sharp knife or apple slicer to cut even wedges so they cook at the same rate.
Avoid overcrowding: Overlapping wedges steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches if needed.
Common mistake — soggy wedges: This happens if apples are overcoated or crowded. Toss lightly in fat and keep a single layer.
Professional shortcut: Toss apples in a small amount of cornstarch (1 tsp for this batch) before coating; it helps sugar adhere and improves caramelization in a home air fryer.
Make-ahead: Prep the wedges up to 4 hours ahead. Toss with lemon and keep in a single layer on a tray covered in the fridge. Air-fry straight from cold, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
Even browning tip: If your air fryer has a perforated tray, use it; otherwise line the basket with a single sheet of perforated parchment to prevent sticking while allowing airflow.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled wedges in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 175°C (350°F) for 4–6 minutes until warmed and re-crisped.
Freezer: These wedges are not ideal for long-term freezing; texture suffers. If needed, freeze in a single layer on a tray for up to 1 month, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 175°C (350°F) for 4–6 minutes. Avoid microwaving — it makes them mushy.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegan / Dairy-Free: Replace butter with 30 ml (2 tbsp) neutral oil or melted coconut oil. Keep all other ingredient amounts the same. Cook time unchanged.
Lower-sugar: Reduce brown sugar to 1 tbsp (12 g); add 5 ml (1 tsp) maple syrup for balance if desired. You may get slightly less caramelization.
Spiced Apple: Add 1/4 tsp ground cardamom or 1/4 tsp ground ginger to the spice mix for a bolder flavor. No other changes.
Baked with oats (crisp-style): Toss 20 g (1/4 cup) rolled oats and 15 g (1 tbsp) flour with the sugar-spice mix and sprinkle over wedges before air-frying. Cook time increases by 1–2 minutes; watch for extra browning.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Garnish with chopped toasted pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup for texture and warmth.
Pair with a hot beverage like chai tea or a latte for cozy fall listening and snacking.
Pair with our Garlic Roasted Potatoes for a savory-sweet side combo in a heartier menu.

Nutrition Information
Serving size: about 1 cup (approx. 170 g). Makes 4 servings.

Per serving (estimate):

Calories: 170 kcal
Total Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg
Sodium: 30 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 20 g
Protein: 0.5 g

Nutrition values are estimates. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did my apple wedges turn out soggy instead of crisp?
A: Most often from overcrowding or too much coating. Give each wedge room and toss lightly in fat and sugar. Cook in a single layer and finish in an uncovered basket.

Q: Can I make this without butter?
A: Yes. Use 30 ml (2 tbsp) neutral oil (canola or avocado) or coconut oil for a dairy-free version. The flavor will be slightly different but still crisp.

Q: Can I double this recipe and cook all at once?
A: It’s better to cook in batches so the wedges stay in a single layer. Doubling is fine, but do two or more batches for even results.

Q: Can I prepare the apples the night before?
A: Yes. Toss wedges in lemon juice and store in a covered container in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Air-fry from chilled, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.

Q: How long do these keep in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, they keep for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in the air fryer at 175°C (350°F) for 4–6 minutes.

Q: Will the wedges brown in the bowl while I prep?
A: A light toss in lemon juice (15 ml/1 tbsp) prevents browning for the short prep time. If prepping far ahead, keep them covered in the fridge.

Q: Are these safe for kids? Any allergy concerns?
A: The base recipe is safe for most, but contains dairy if butter is used. Swap to oil for dairy-free needs and be mindful of added toppings like nuts.

Conclusion

If you want a fast, cozy snack, these air fryer cinnamon apple wedges are hard to beat — crisp edges, tender centers, and minimal fuss. For a quick alternative method and a slightly different spice profile, you can compare another simple air fryer apple recipe at Air Fryer Apples – 10 Minute Recipe. For an oil-free take and fewer sweeteners, see this helpful version at Air Fryer Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Brown sugar, Oil-Free.