Introduction
Is there anything cozier than the smell of warm apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen? I think not! While I adore a classic slice of pie, sometimes you just need a faster, simpler treat that delivers all that incredible flavor. That is precisely why I am so excited to share these unbelievably easy Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs with you today. They are the perfect solution for a quick dessert craving, a fun family cooking project, or a last-minute potluck hero that will have everyone begging for the recipe.
So, what exactly are Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs? Imagine all the gooey, spiced apple pie filling you love, but it is conveniently wrapped inside a flaky, golden-brown biscuit dough pocket. You cook them in the air fryer, which means they get incredibly crispy on the outside without the mess of deep frying. This method is a total game-changer because it significantly cuts down on cook time and calories compared to traditional fried pastries. This recipe perfectly aligns with our mission at Rapid Recipes to deliver delicious, crowd-pleasing meals and treats that truly work with your busy schedule. If you are looking for more ways to use that fantastic kitchen gadget, you must check out our ultimate collection of easy air fryer dinners. And for another fantastic shortcut dessert that uses similar ingredients, our readers absolutely adore these cinnamon roll apple pie bites.
Why I Love This Recipe
I have a serious soft spot for this recipe because it reminds me of making homemade apple pie with my grandma, but it is so much less intimidating. I love that I can satisfy my dessert craving in under 20 minutes without heating up my entire kitchen with the oven. The process is also just fun, especially when I get my kids involved with assembling the little bombs. They are personal-sized, perfectly portable, and the warm, cinnamon-sugar coating on top is absolutely irresistible every single time.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs deliver a surprisingly wholesome treat because they are packed with real fruit. Apples provide a solid dose of dietary fiber, which is fantastic for supporting healthy digestion and keeping you feeling full. While they are a dessert, these bombs offer a better alternative to deep-fried pastries since the air fryer uses significantly less oil. You still get that satisfying crispy texture without the heavy grease. Furthermore, apples are a natural source of vitamin C and various antioxidants, so you are giving your body a nutritional boost even though you are enjoying a sweet snack. The cinnamon often used in Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs is also beneficial because it is known to help regulate blood sugar levels. Although it is a treat, you can feel good about serving Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs to your family. They are a smarter choice that does not sacrifice an ounce of flavor.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
These tasty treats fit perfectly into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. They satisfy a sweet craving without derailing your progress, making them a great tool for sustainable healthy eating. You can easily adapt the recipe to meet specific dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. If you are looking for more protein-packed breakfast ideas to balance your day, our high-protein breakfast bowls are a fantastic option. Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are also incredibly practical for busy schedules. They cook in minutes, providing a quick homemade dessert that prevents less healthy last-minute choices. For another great air fryer recipe that supports your goals, try our easy air fryer chicken for a simple, low-fat protein source.
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Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
- Total Time: 29 mins
- Yield: 16 apple pie bombs 1x
Description
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are biscuits filled with apple pie filling, cooked in an air fryer until golden brown, and covered in an apple pie spice and sugar coating.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons apple pie spice
- 1 can (8-count) Pillsbury Grand biscuits, (not flaky layers)
- 1 cup (243 g) apple pie filling, (with apples cut into small pieces)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, (melted)
Instructions
- In a medium-size bowl, mix the sugar and apple pie spice. Set aside.
- Remove the biscuits from the can and peel to separate each into two layers. Press each layer of biscuit into a 4-inch circle. (You will have 16 circles.)
- In a small bowl, combine the apple pie filling with cinnamon. Mix to combine.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the apple pie filling and cinnamon mixture into the center of each circle.
- Use your fingers to fold the sides together, pinching to seal. Roll into balls.
- Spray the basket of an air fryer with nonstick cooking spray.
- Working in batches, place the balls into an air fryer basket about 2 inches apart. Spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 350°F for 8-9 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Carefully remove the balls from the air fryer, dipping each in melted butter.
- Roll each dipped apple pie bomb into the apple pie spice and sugar mixture. Repeat with the remaining batches.
- Serve immediately or at room temperature.
Notes
For best results, ensure the apple pie filling is well-drained to prevent soggy bombs. These can be frozen after cooking and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warm. The sugar coating adds sweetness and crunch, so apply while the bombs are still warm from the butter dip.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 9 mins
- Method: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 154
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 15
How to Prepare This Dish
Steps and time-saving tips
First, grab a large bowl and whisk together your cinnamon, sugar, and cornstarch. Next, toss in your finely diced apples until they get a beautiful, even coating. Meanwhile, pop open your can of biscuits and gently flatten each one on a clean surface. Furthermore, place a generous spoonful of your apple mixture right in the center of each dough circle. Then, carefully pull the dough edges up and over the filling, pinching them tightly at the top to seal your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs. After that, lightly brush each bomb with melted butter and give them a quick roll in a cinnamon-sugar blend. Now, arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure they have a little room to breathe. Finally, air fry until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. For a quick finish, immediately drizzle them with a simple powdered sugar glaze right after they come out of the air fryer. Consequently, you will have a warm, gooey dessert ready in minutes. Moreover, using pre-made dough and a store-bought apple pie filling are fantastic shortcuts for an even faster treat.
I have absolutely overfilled my Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs in a rush, which led to messy leaks and a sticky air fryer basket. Now, I use a measured cookie scoop for perfect portion control every single time. Another challenge was undercooking the apples, resulting in a slightly crunchy texture. However, I learned that pre-cooking the filling for just a few minutes ensures a soft, perfect bite. Also, do not overcrowd the basket. Initially, I tried to cook them all at once, but they steamed instead of crisping. Consequently, I cook in batches for that ideal golden-brown finish. This method works for so many other treats, much like getting the perfect crust on my air fryer frozen calzones.
Cultural Connection and Variations
Where this recipe comes from
The story of Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs is a beautiful tale of modern convenience meeting old-world comfort. Although the air fryer itself is a contemporary marvel, the heart of this recipe beats with the timeless rhythm of American apple pie. Generations of home cooks have gathered in kitchens to peel, slice, and spice apples, creating a dessert that symbolizes warmth, family, and celebration. This tradition was often a centerpiece during autumn harvests and holiday gatherings, filling homes with an unmistakable, comforting aroma.
In many families, the a
ct of making pie was a communal event, a way to pass down techniques and stories. The genius of Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs is how it captures that essential spirit in a single, handheld package. They take the grand, sometimes intimidating, endeavor of a full pie and transform it into an accessible, shareable treat. You can almost imagine these portable pies being passed around at a county fair or a family picnic, offering the same nostalgic flavor without the need for a plate and fork. They are a personal love letter to a classic, proving that some traditions can evolve while staying perfectly delicious.How it fits in today’s cooking
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs fit seamlessly into our current cooking routines because they deliver incredible flavor with incredible speed. They are the perfect solution for a busy weeknight when you crave a homemade dessert but lack the time for a from-scratch project. Furthermore, they have become a star at modern holiday parties and seasonal gatherings, offering a fun, individual alternative to slicing a whole pie. Their quick cooking time in the air fryer also means you can make a fresh batch on demand, so they are always served warm and crispy.
Today’s cooks are constantly reimagining this concept with creative fillings and toppings. While the classic cinnamon-apple combination is unbeatable, some are experimenting with adding cranberries or a drizzle of salted caramel for a new twist. This spirit of innovation is what keeps cooking exciting. For another fantastic way to use your appliance, explore our ultimate guide to air fryer chicken tenders for a savory main course. And if you love the ease of these apple bombs, you will adore our simple recipe for 3-ingredient biscuits, which showcases how minimal effort can yield maximum comfort.
Taste and Texture
What makes it delicious
Each Air Fryer Apple Pie Bomb delivers a perfect symphony of taste and texture. You first experience a wonderfully crisp and flaky golden-brown crust that shatters delicately with every bite. Inside, a warm and tender filling of soft, spiced apples awaits, creating a cozy and comforting heart. The apples become almost jammy during cooking, while their natural sweetness mingles beautifully with warm notes of cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg. A buttery, rich flavor from the crescent dough wraps the entire experience, making each morsel incredibly satisfying. Moreover, the aroma that fills your kitchen is absolutely intoxicating, just like a classic apple pie baking in the oven. The final dusting of cinnamon sugar on top adds a subtle, delightful crunch that contrasts the soft interior. This combination of a crisp exterior and a warm, gooey, fragrant center makes these handheld treats utterly irresistible. You will find the overall experience of eating Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs both nostalgic and excitingly modern.
Boosting the flavor
You can easily elevate your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs with a few simple tweaks. Consider tossing your apple filling with a splash of fresh lemon juice because its bright acidity will cut through the sweetness and enhance the fruit’s flavor. For a deeper, more complex spice profile, add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to your cinnamon mixture. A drizzle of rich salted caramel sauce right after air frying adds a luxurious, buttery note that pairs perfectly with the apples. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm bombs creates a fantastic hot-and-cold contrast. If you prefer a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving. For an even more indulgent experience, serve them with a side of our homemade vanilla whipped cream. You can also experiment with different apple varieties, like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness, to find your perfect balance.
Tips for Success
Best practices for results
Always chill your dough before assembling your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs, because this prevents the buttery layers from melting too quickly and ensures a flaky, golden-brown crust. Use a small cookie scoop to portion the apple filling evenly, so every single bite has the perfect balance of sweet fruit and spice. Lightly brush the tops with an egg wash or melted butter before cooking, as this simple step creates that beautifully crisp and glossy finish everyone loves. Finally, although it is tempting to eat them immediately, allow your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs to rest for a few minutes on a wire rack so the molten filling can set slightly and become safe to enjoy.
Mistakes to avoid
A common mistake is overfilling the dough rounds with too much apple mixture, which then causes the delicious filling to leak out during the cooking process and create a sticky mess. To prevent this, use a conservative amount of filling and securely pinch the seams of your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs closed. Another error is not preheating your air fryer, even though a hot cooking chamber is crucial for achieving that instant lift and crispy texture right from the start; for more on this, see our guide on why preheating your air fryer matters. Furthermore, avoid overcrowding the basket because the bombs need ample space for the hot air to circulate freely around each one, ensuring they cook evenly and brown properly without steaming. If you are unsure about your appliance’s capacity, our article on mastering air fryer batch cooking offers excellent advice for getting consistent results every time.
