Air Fried Apple Wedges Caramel

Turning ordinary apples into something crave-worthy has never been easier than with these air fried apple wedges dipped in billowy caramel whipped cream. When the air fryer first entered my kitchen this was the sweet treat that convinced my family it was here to stay. The warm cinnamon apples and cool dip bring together the coziness of fall and the ease of fast snacks into one irresistible plate.

The first time I made this dessert we ate every last wedge before they even cooled and I had to make a second batch because my kids begged for more. It instantly became our favorite after school pick me up.

Ingredients

• Large apples: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith add the best sweet tart crunch and hold their shape. Choose apples that feel heavy and have unblemished skin for the best results.
• Melted butter: Gives rich flavor and helps the sugar adhere to the apples. Use real butter for the most flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness and creates a caramelized edge in the air fryer. Superfine sugar will stick more evenly.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings that warm cozy aroma to every bite. Opt for Ceylon cinnamon if you can find it for a smoother taste.
• Heavy whipping cream: The secret to making that pillowy dip. Go for ultra cold cream for best whipping results.
• Caramel sauce: Gives the dip its decadent sweetness. Use a thick rich caramel for the boldest flavor or make your own.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the caramel flavor. I prefer pure vanilla but use what you have.
• Extra caramel drizzle: Optional but really takes it over the top. Try salted caramel for a grown up twist.

Instructions

Select and slice apples:

Cut the apples into even wedges so they cook uniformly. Three large apples yield plenty for sharing but you can always double if you have a crowd.

Toss with butter and seasonings:

Place apple wedges in a big bowl. Drizzle melted butter all over and gently stir to coat every slice. In another bowl mix sugar and cinnamon then sprinkle over apples making sure every wedge gets covered. The butter helps the spices and sugar cling to the fruit.

Arrange in the air fryer:

Lay the apple wedges out in a single even layer in your air fryer basket with a little space between each piece. This allows the hot air to circulate and crisp up the edges. Do not overcrowd or you will end up with steamed apples.

Air fry until crisp tender:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees F. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes giving the basket a shake halfway through. The apples should be golden at the edges and tender but not mushy. Cooking times can vary so check them early the first time you make these.

Whip the cream:

Pour cold heavy cream into a chilled bowl. Beat with a mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form that gently hold their shape. This usually takes 3 to 5 minutes.

Add caramel and vanilla:

Fold the caramel sauce and vanilla into the whipped cream with a spatula using gentle motions so you don’t deflate the cloud like texture. Taste and adjust caramel to your preference for sweetness.

Serve and enjoy:

Transfer the warm apple wedges to a serving platter. Spoon the caramel whipped cream into a small bowl for dipping. Drizzle a little extra caramel over the top for extra indulgence. The combination of warm spiced apples and cool rich dip is amazing.

My favorite part is the way the cinnamon sugar smells as the apples fry. Last fall we made these after a day at the orchard and each warm bite tasted like family togetherness. The caramel dip is so good I have caught my husband finishing the bowl with a spoon.

Storage Tips

These apple wedges are at their peak when freshly made but you can keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for one to two days. To reheat pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. The whipped cream can be made a few hours ahead but whip it fresh for the fluffiest dip.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Honeycrisp or Granny Smith try Pink Lady or Fuji apples. Coconut oil works well instead of butter. For a dairy free dip use coconut cream and a vegan caramel sauce. You can also use pumpkin pie spice or ground nutmeg to switch up the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wedges as a fun dessert for parties after school snacks or a healthier late night treat. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot cider. Set out a board with fresh berries and pretzels for dipping into extra caramel cream.

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Air fried apple wedges put a modern spin on the classic autumn apple desserts so many families grew up with. Air frying keeps the apples tender inside with just a little crisp on the edge without deep frying. In the fall I love using apples from our local orchard and making an extra batch around Halloween or Thanksgiving.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use pears instead of apples for a wintery variation. Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for a holiday vibe. Swap apples for chilled peaches during summer.

Success Stories

Friends have asked for this recipe after tasting it at my last brunch buffet. My oldest says it tastes just like fairground apple treats. Even picky eaters always reach for seconds.

Freezer Meal Conversion

The apple wedges do not freeze well once cooked but you can slice and season raw apples ahead of time. Freeze them in a single layer then air fry from frozen adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Air fried apple wedges with caramel whipped cream are best enjoyed warm surrounded by friends or family. Each bite will have you reaching for just one more.

Recipe FAQs

→ Which apples work best for air frying?

Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples hold their shape and provide the right tartness and sweetness balance.

→ How do I prevent apple wedges from becoming soggy?

Arrange them in a single layer, avoid overcrowding, and shake the basket halfway through cooking.

→ Can store-bought caramel sauce be used in the whipped cream?

Yes, any good-quality caramel sauce blends well into the whipped cream for easy preparation.

→ Is the caramel whipped cream suitable for making ahead?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare and chill it for up to a few hours before serving.

→ Are there variations for this apple wedge treat?

You may add a sprinkle of sea salt, drizzle extra caramel, or top apples with chopped nuts for more texture.