If you’re on the lookout for a comforting yet healthy dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender baked apples stuffed with a crunchy, sweet, and tart filling that comes together quickly in your air fryer. This dish captures the essence of cozy autumn afternoons or a simple weeknight treat, marrying natural sweetness with a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist. Best of all, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect whether you’re craving a wholesome dessert or a special snack to share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simpler than you might think, but each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Every component adds depth to the dish, from the juicy apples to the crunchy walnuts and the sweet cranberries.
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala): These varieties hold their shape beautifully and offer a naturally sweet flavor that complements the filling.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and a nutty richness that contrasts wonderfully with the soft apples.
- 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries: Provide a burst of tart sweetness that livens up the filling.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar: Sweetens the filling with a hint of caramel-like depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice, enhancing the apple’s natural flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle earthiness and aromatic complexity.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness with a smooth, fragrant note.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil: Helps bind the filling ingredients together and adds richness.
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for serving: Perfect for adding a cool, creamy contrast to the warm apples.
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the apples cook evenly and that the filling caramelizes beautifully, giving you that perfect texture in just the right time.
Step 2: Core the apples
Gently core each apple, making sure to leave the bottom intact. This keeps the filling from spilling out during cooking and allows the apples to maintain their lovely shape and juiciness.
Step 3: Prepare the walnut and cranberry filling
In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins or dried cranberries, brown sugar or coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and melted butter or coconut oil. Mix everything until you have a nicely blended, sticky mixture packed with flavor.
Step 4: Stuff the apples
Spoon the filling into each cored apple, pressing it down gently to make sure the hollow centers are filled completely. This step is what makes the Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe so satisfying — each bite delivers a perfect combination of soft apple and sweet, crunchy filling.
Step 5: Arrange apples in the air fryer
Place the stuffed apples upright in the air fryer basket. Give them a bit of space so they cook evenly and the air can circulate freely, ensuring all sides turn tender and caramelized.
Step 6: Air fry the apples
Cook the apples for 15-20 minutes until their flesh is tender and the filling inside is bubbly and caramelized. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overcook — every air fryer is a little different.
Step 7: Cool and serve
Carefully remove the apples from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. This slight cooling lets the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle. They’re fantastic on their own or topped with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for an extra indulgent bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top adds a lovely visual and textural finish. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of honey can also brighten up the presentation and flavor without overpowering this naturally sweet treat.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt. You could also serve it alongside a smooth pumpkin soup or a warm spiced chai for a full cozy meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe in deep dessert bowls, allowing the juices to pool around the base. You can also halve the apples for a smaller, charming individual portion or make mini versions with baby apples for parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The apples will soften further over time, so they’re perfect for a quick breakfast or snack reheated gently.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze the stuffed apples before air frying. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and air fry as usual, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the apples back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped again on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts for the filling?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are traditional and add great texture, almonds or hazelnuts also work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavor.
Is it necessary to keep the bottom of the apple intact when coring?
Yes, keeping the bottom intact prevents the filling from leaking out during cooking, ensuring that each bite is full of that delicious walnut and cranberry goodness.
Can I substitute other dried fruits in this recipe?
Definitely! Dried cherries, apricots, or even chopped dates can add interesting flavors and textures to the filling—feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
How do I know when the apples are done?
They’re ready when the apples are tender to the touch (but not mushy) and the filling is bubbly and caramelized. The aroma should also be rich and spiced, signaling perfection.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, absolutely. Use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut sugar to keep it fully vegan-friendly, and enjoy a nutritious, dairy-free dessert.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way warm baked apples filled with toasted nuts and tart cranberries can lift your mood and satisfy your sweet tooth without any guilt. The Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe is a shining example of wholesome simplicity that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. Give this recipe a try and you might find it quickly becoming your go-to treat for any time you want something comforting yet fresh. Your air fryer will thank you, and your taste buds will too!
Print
Air Fryer Baked Apples with Walnut and Cranberry Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and healthy Air Fryer Baked Apples stuffed with a flavorful mixture of nuts, dried fruit, spices, and brown sugar, cooked to tender perfection in just 30 minutes. A perfect warm dessert that’s simple, quick, and customizable with optional vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.
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 Serving
- Vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat to ensure even cooking of the apples.
- Prepare the Apples: Carefully core each apple, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the filling stays inside during cooking.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine chopped nuts, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Stuff the Apples: Fill each cored apple with the prepared mixture, pressing down gently to compact the filling into the hollow centers.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the stuffed apples upright in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch, to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
- Cook the Apples: Air fry the apples for 15-20 minutes until they become tender and the filling is bubbly and caramelized.
- Serve: Carefully remove the apples from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. For an extra treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best texture and taste.
- Be careful not to core through the bottom of the apple to keep the filling contained.
- Adjust the sugar amount to your preference, or substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Optional toppings such as vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt add creaminess and complement the warm spices.
- For a nut-free version, omit nuts and increase dried fruit quantity.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the apples and your specific air fryer model.
