Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith)
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, helps prevent browning)
- A drizzle of honey or maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Apples:
- Wash and peel the apples (optional, but peeling makes the slices softer).
- Cut the apples in half, remove the core and seeds, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick wedges or rings. You can also slice them thinner if you prefer crisper results.
2. Toss in Seasoning:
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
- Add the apple slices and toss them gently until they are evenly coated with the mixture. You can also add a little lemon juice to keep the apples from browning.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your model.
4. Air Fry the Apples:
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry the apples at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even cooking. The apples should be tender and lightly browned.
5. Serve:
- Once done, remove the apple slices from the air fryer.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle them with honey or maple syrup.
- Serve warm as a snack, side dish, or dessert. You can even pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Tips:
- Apple Variety: Different apples will give different results. Firmer apples like Granny Smith will hold their shape better, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala will caramelize more easily.
- Crispier Slices: If you prefer crispier apple slices, you can increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes, checking regularly so they don’t burn.
- Add-ins: You can sprinkle some chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) on top before serving for added texture, or add a dash of vanilla extract to the butter mixture for a richer flavor.