Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Wedges

The kitchen smells like warm spice and caramel when these Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Wedges come out hot — crisp at the edges, tender inside, and ready in about 20 minutes. After testing this recipe 8 times across different air fryers and apple varieties, I settled on a simple 6-ingredient mix that gets consistent color and flavor every time. This is the version I perfected while teaching quick snacks to busy parents, and it works whether you serve it as a snack, dessert, or breakfast topping. For a creamy contrast, try them with our cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites — they pair beautifully. Read on for precise timing, pro tips, and safe substitutions.

Why This Recipe Works

Thin wedges expose more surface area to hot air, creating crisp, caramelized edges while keeping the core tender.
A touch of oil helps the sugar caramelize quickly without making the apples greasy.
Lemon juice prevents browning and brightens flavor, balancing the sweetness.
Tossing wedges in a light cornstarch dust (optional) promotes a glossy, slightly thickened coating.
Tested on multiple air fryers and apple varieties to ensure consistent timing and doneness.

Ingredients Breakdown

Apples — 3 medium (about 600 g / 1.3 lb). Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold their shape. Avoid overly soft varieties unless you want a nearly compote result.
Brown sugar — 30 g (2 tbsp). Adds molasses depth. You can reduce to 15 g (1 tbsp) for less sweetness.
Ground cinnamon — 2 g (1 tsp). The primary spice. For a warmer flavor, add a pinch (0.2 g) of ground nutmeg.
Neutral oil — 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. Helps caramelization. For oil-free, use 1 tbsp (15 ml) unsweetened apple sauce but expect less browning.
Lemon juice — 15 ml (1 tbsp). Stops oxidation and brightens the fruit.
Cornstarch — 3 g (1 tsp), optional. Gives a shiny, slightly thick finish and helps the sugar cling.
Kosher salt — a pinch (about 0.5 g). Enhances sweetness. If using Morton salt, use half the amount because it’s denser.

Substitution notes:

Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar 1:1 but will darken and may smoke at high temps; reduce air-fryer temp by 10°C (25°F).
For vegan or oil-free diets, swap oil for applesauce (same volume) but expect softer edges.
If you prefer a less sweet snack, omit brown sugar and sprinkle 1 tbsp (8 g) powdered erythritol instead.

Essential Equipment

Air fryer with a 3–5 L capacity. If your basket is smaller, cook in batches to avoid crowding.
Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for even wedges.
Mixing bowl large enough to toss wedges without spilling.
Tongs or a silicone spatula to turn wedges halfway.
Optional: kitchen thermometer (not required here) and an inexpensive nonstick spray if your air fryer tends to stick.

If you lack an air fryer, roast the wedges on a rimmed baking sheet at 190°C (375°F) for 18–25 minutes, turning once.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 10 minutes. Cook Time: 12–14 minutes. Inactive Time: None. Total Time: 22–24 minutes. Servings: 4 servings.

Step 1: Choose and slice the apples

Wash and dry 3 medium apples (about 600 g / 1.3 lb). Core and cut each apple into 8 wedges (24 wedges total). Aim for even thickness so pieces cook uniformly; this takes about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the spice mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together 30 g (2 tbsp) brown sugar, 2 g (1 tsp) ground cinnamon, 3 g (1 tsp) cornstarch (optional), and a pinch of kosher salt. Add 15 ml (1 tbsp) lemon juice and 15 ml (1 tbsp) oil; whisk until syrupy. This takes about 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Coat the apple wedges

Add the apple wedges to the bowl and toss for 30–45 seconds until each wedge is lightly and evenly coated. Do not soak the wedges — a light coating is all you need for crisp edges.

Step 4: Arrange in the air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 3 minutes. Lay wedges in a single layer in the basket with space between pieces. Cook in a single layer; you may need 2 batches depending on your air fryer. This takes 2–3 minutes to arrange.

Step 5: Air fry until caramelized

Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 6–7 minutes. Pause, flip each wedge with tongs, then air fry another 6–7 minutes until edges are golden brown and fruit is tender when pierced with a fork. Total cook time 12–14 minutes. Look for glossy, caramelized edges and a fragrant cinnamon aroma.

Step 6: Finish and serve

Transfer wedges to a plate to stop cooking. If desired, sprinkle an extra pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey. Serve warm. Cooling for 2–3 minutes improves texture and reduces surface stickiness.

Expert Tips & Pro Techniques

Common mistake: Overcrowding the basket. Crowded wedges steam, not crisp. Cook in batches for the best texture.
Use even wedges. Uneven sizes lead to burnt edges and undercooked centers. Aim for uniform thickness.
Make-ahead: Toss the wedges with lemon juice and spices and store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Air fry straight from cold; add 1–2 minutes to cook time.
Pro technique adapted for home cooks: Briefly preheat the basket and spray it lightly with oil to improve contact and encourage even browning — this mimics commercial convection heat.
Avoid smoking: If your air fryer smokes with sugar-rich mixes, drop the temp to 180°C (350°F) and add 1–2 minutes to cook time.
For extra shine and hold: After cooking, toss wedges with 1 tsp (5 ml) warm honey or apricot jam thinned with 1 tsp (5 ml) warm water.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled wedges in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They retain texture best when loosely layered with parchment between pieces.

Freezer: You can freeze cooked wedges, individually flash-frozen on a tray, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Best in an oven or air fryer. Reheat at 175°C (350°F) for 6–8 minutes or until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it makes the texture soft and mealy.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegan / Oil-Free: Replace 15 ml (1 tbsp) oil with 15 ml (1 tbsp) unsweetened applesauce. Expect softer edges and reduce sugar to 15 g (1 tbsp) to avoid excessive sweetness.
Spiced Autumn: Add 0.5 g (1/8 tsp) ground cloves and 0.5 g (1/8 tsp) ground nutmeg. Keep sugar and oil the same. Cook time unchanged.
Maple-Sweetened: Swap brown sugar for 20 ml (1 tbsp + 1 tsp) pure maple syrup. Reduce air-fryer temp to 180°C (350°F) and add 2 extra minutes to avoid burning.
Gluten-Free Crisp: This recipe is naturally gluten free. If using cornstarch, ensure your brand is labeled gluten free.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve with vanilla Greek yogurt or whipped cream for a creamy contrast. You can also pair them with our apple pie cake for a dessert spread.
Top warm wedges with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for a decadent dessert.
Add to oatmeal or pancakes for a spiced fruit topping at breakfast; they hold up well and add texture.
As a snack, serve with a tangy dip like Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of honey and lemon.

For a fun twist, incorporate leftover wedges into toasted sandwiches or quick tarts.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (serving size: about 6 wedges; recipe yields 4 servings):

Calories: 130 kcal
Total Fat: 3.5 g
Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 35 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 31 g
Dietary Fiber: 3.5 g
Sugars: 20 g
Protein: 0.6 g

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did my wedges turn out soggy instead of crisp?
A: Sogginess usually comes from overcrowding or not preheating the air fryer. Cook in a single layer with space between wedges and preheat to 190°C (375°F) for a few minutes.

Q: Can I make this without sugar?
A: Yes. Omit the brown sugar and toss wedges with cinnamon and a splash of lemon juice. They will be less caramelized but still flavorful.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes. Double the ingredients and cook in batches. Do not cram the basket — cook in 2 or more batches for the same crisp finish.

Q: Can I prepare this the night before?
A: You can toss sliced apples with lemon juice and spices and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Air fry cold from the fridge and add 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

Q: How long do they keep in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, cooked wedges keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Which apple variety is best for air frying?
A: Firm, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best. They hold shape and caramelize without collapsing.

Q: Can I use frozen apple slices?
A: Frozen apple slices can be used but will release extra moisture. Pat them dry, add 1–2 extra minutes to cook time, and spread them out to avoid steaming.

Conclusion

If you want a quick, cozy snack, these wedges deliver crisp caramel edges and tender centers in about 20 minutes. For another oil-free variation and step-by-step photos, see this Air Fryer Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar guide. For a very similar quick method with slightly different spices and ratio tips, this Air Fryer Apples – 10 Minute Recipe is a useful reference. Enjoy them warm with yogurt, ice cream, or on their own.