Air Fryer Apple Pie That Rivals Grandma’s Recipe

Why Air Fryer Apple Pies Are a Game-Changer

Making apple pie in an air fryer is quicker and easier than using a traditional oven. The air fryer gives the crust a perfect golden brown crisp while keeping the inside warm and gooey.

Unlike deep frying, you get that crispy texture with less oil. Plus, it preheats in minutes, meaning you can satisfy your apple pie cravings faster whether you’re making hand pies or a small pie dish; the air fryer delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort.

The Best Apples for Air Fryer Apple Pie

Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. Granny Smith apples are a classic choice because their tartness balances the sweetness of the pie. Honeycrisp adds a crisp texture, while Fuji or Gala brings natural sweetness.

A mix of tart and sweet apples creates the best flavor. Avoid Red Delicious—they turn mushy when cooked. Slice whichever apple you choose evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate in the air fryer.

Prepping Your Apples for the Perfect Filling

To get the best filling, peel and slice apples thinly so they cook evenly. Toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor. Adding a bit of cornstarch thickens the filling, preventing a runny mess.

A squeeze of lemon juice keeps the apples from browning and balances sweetness. Letting the mixture sit for 10 minutes draws out juices, creating a richer filling. Properly prepped apples ensure your air fryer pie turns out just right.

Choosing the Right Pie Dough

A flaky, buttery crust is key to a great apple pie. You can use store-bought pie dough for convenience, but homemade dough gives the best results. A simple mix of flour, butter, salt, and ice water creates a tender crust.

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. For hand pies, roll the dough thin for better crisping whether homemade or store-bought, a well-prepped dough makes all the difference in an air fryer apple pie.

Secret Ingredient for a Flavor Boost

Want to elevate your apple pie flavor? Add a splash of vanilla extract or maple syrup to the filling for extra depth. A small pinch of black pepper enhances the warmth of the cinnamon.

Some bakers swear by a tablespoon of bourbon or rum—it brings out the richness of the apples. For an unexpected twist, mix in a bit of orange zest. These small additions take your air fryer apple pie from good to unforgettable.

Assembling Your Air Fryer Apple Pie

To assemble your pie, use parchment paper to prevent sticking, and trim the dough to leave space for air circulation inside the basket. For a traditional pie, layer the filling evenly and cover with another piece of dough, crimping the edges.

If making hand pies, place the filling in the center of small dough circles, fold them over, and seal with a fork. Brushing the crust with egg wash gives it a golden finish. Be sure to cut small vents in the top to let steam escape while baking.

The Perfect Air Fryer Temperature and Time

Cooking apple pie in an air fryer requires the right settings. Set the air fryer to 350°F for the best balance of crispy crust and tender filling. A full pie takes about 25 minutes, while hand pies cook in just 12-15 minutes.

Check halfway through and rotate if needed for even browning. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil. The right time and temp ensure a golden, flaky crust with a perfectly cooked apple filling.

How to Keep the Crust from Getting Soggy

Nobody wants a soggy crust! The key is to preheat your air fryer before adding the pie. A light dusting of cornstarch or breadcrumbs on the bottom crust helps absorb excess moisture.

Using an egg wash also helps seal the dough and keep it crisp. Avoid overloading with filling, as too much juice can make the crust soggy. Lastly, don’t skip the venting slits on top—they allow steam to escape, keeping the pie light and flaky.

Brushing Your Crust for the Perfect Finish

For that golden bakery-style crust, brush the top with an egg wash before air frying. A simple mix of one egg and a tablespoon of water works well.

For a shinier, slightly sweeter finish, use milk instead of water. If you love a crunch, sprinkle a bit of coarse sugar on top before baking. Want a rich, buttery crust? Brush it with melted butter right after cooking. These little tricks make your air fryer apple pie look and taste amazing.

Making Mini Apple Hand Pies

Mini apple hand pies are a great option for air fryers, as they cook faster and make perfect single servings. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.

Place a small spoonful of filling in the center, fold over, and crimp the edges. Air fry at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. These handheld treats are perfect for snacks, parties, or a quick dessert without the hassle of a full pie.

Adding a Crunchy Topping

Want extra texture? A crumble topping adds crunch to your air fryer apple pie. Mix together butter, brown sugar, flour, and oats to create a streusel topping. Sprinkle it over the filling before baking.

For an even crunchier topping, add chopped pecans or walnuts. The air fryer’s circulating heat crisps up the topping beautifully. This small addition turns your pie into a next-level dessert with a mix of soft, spiced apples and crispy, buttery topping.

Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Treat

Air fryer apple pie is even better with the right toppings. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts perfectly over the warm pie. Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon adds a light, creamy touch.

Drizzling caramel or honey over the top enhances the sweetness. For a fun twist, serve with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese—an old-school classic pairing that brings out the apple flavor. However you serve it, warm pie straight from the air fryer is irresistible.

Check out these guilt-free desserts made easy with an air fryer. You can also check out air fryer desserts you didn’t know were possible.

The Perfect Apple Pie in Minutes

Air fryer apple pies prove you don’t need a traditional oven for a homemade, bakery-quality dessert. With a flaky crust, spiced apple filling, and quick cooking time, these pies are a game-changer.

Whether you go classic, mini, or creative with toppings, the air fryer makes it easy. Try different apple varieties, experiment with flavors, and have fun making your own version of grandma’s recipe—with a modern twist.

Do not miss out on savory meat pies you’ll want to try this week. You can also check out desserts that require only 5 ingredients or less.

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