Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie, and these air fryer apple pie bombs make it easier than ever to enjoy that classic taste. Bite-sized pockets of flaky pastry filled with a sweet apple cinnamon filling, these little bombs are the perfect handheld dessert. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a special treat, these air fryer apple pie bombs are sure to delight.
The beauty of this recipe is that it delivers all the flavors of traditional apple pie but with a fraction of the time and effort. The air fryer cooks these up quickly to golden brown perfection, locking in the juicy apple filling and crisp pastry shell. Plus, the small individual portions make them an irresistible handheld treat that’s easy to share (or not!).
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
These air fryer apple pie bombs check all the boxes – they’re easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for any occasion. The contrast of the warm, cinnamony apple filling with the flaky, golden brown pastry is simply divine. Plus, the compact individual size makes them great for snacking, dessert, or even breakfast.
What really sets this recipe apart is how versatile it is. You can make the bombs ahead of time and freeze them for quick baking whenever a craving strikes. They also lend themselves well to all sorts of dietary modifications, from reduced-fat to lower-carb. And let’s not forget how much time the air fryer saves compared to traditional baking methods. It’s a win-win all around!
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs ❓
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored and diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for topping)
The beauty of this air fryer apple pie bombs recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and flaky pastry creates the classic American-inspired flavor profile that has made apple pie recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Mix well.
• Step 3: Place 1-2 tablespoons of the apple mixture into the center of 6 of the pie crust circles. Top with the remaining 6 circles, pressing the edges to seal.
• Step 4: Brush the tops of the sealed pie bombs with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
• Step 5: Place the pie bombs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown.
• Step 6: Carefully remove the cooked pie bombs from the air fryer and serve warm.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
• Total time: 23-25 minutes
Compared to traditional apple pie which can take up to an hour to prepare, this air fryer apple pie bombs recipe saves you nearly 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 179mg
These air fryer apple pie bombs provide approximately 10% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 14% of your daily fat needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the brown sugar with a sugar-free sweetener and use a low-carb pie crust.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk or water, and use a vegan pie crust.
• Added protein: Mix in 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a boost of healthy fats and protein.
• Boost vegetables: Dice a small pear or add a handful of fresh cranberries to the filling for extra fiber and nutrients.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 25% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the air fryer apple pie bombs.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a mug of hot apple cider or spiced tea for a cozy autumn treat
• Complement the apple pie bombs with a crisp fall salad for a complete dessert course
• For a brunch menu, serve alongside scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage
• Create an elegant dessert platter with the air fryer apple pie bombs, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and mini tarts
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not sealing the edges properly: Failing to press the pie crust circles together tightly can result in leaks or uneven cooking. Make sure to firmly seal the edges.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Cooking the bombs in a single layer is crucial for even browning. Avoid stacking or overlapping the pastries in the basket.
• Letting them cool completely before serving: These are best enjoyed warm, straight from the air fryer. The filling will be at its juiciest and the pastry crispest when served immediately.
• Not checking for doneness: Keep an eye on the bombs during the final minutes of cooking to prevent burning. The tops should be golden brown when fully cooked.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These air fryer apple pie bombs retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the bombs according to the recipe, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cooked bombs to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
• Reheating: For best texture, reheat the baked bombs in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until heated through and crisp.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the air fryer apple pie bombs ahead of time?
Absolutely! The uncooked bombs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply prepare them according to the recipe, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen bombs in the air fryer and cook for an extra minute or two longer than the recipe instructions.
Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of apples in these air fryer bombs. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples all work well. Just make sure to peel, core, and dice them before mixing with the other filling ingredients. The different apple flavors will add their own unique twist to the recipe.
Are these air fryer apple pie bombs gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you’ll need to use a gluten-free refrigerated pie crust. Many major brands now offer gluten-free options that can be found in the baking aisle. Additionally, make sure to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the filling. With these simple swaps, you can easily adapt the air fryer apple pie bombs to be suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Why are my air fryer apple pie bombs leaking or bursting?
If your bombs are leaking or bursting during cooking, it’s likely due to either overfilling the pastry or not sealing the edges properly. Be sure to only use 1-2 tablespoons of filling per circle, and make sure to firmly press the edges together to create a tight seal. Avoiding overcrowding the air fryer basket can also help prevent the bombs from expanding and bursting.
Can I add other fruit or flavors to the filling?
Absolutely! These air fryer apple pie bombs are a great canvas for all sorts of flavor variations. Try adding a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries, a diced pear, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling. You can also experiment with different spice blends, such as pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice, to change up the flavor profile.
Conclusion
These air fryer apple pie bombs represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a decadent dessert or a satisfying snack, they’re sure to impress with their warm, cinnamony filling and crisp, golden brown pastry shell. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward air fryer preparation, these apple pie bombs demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why not treat yourself (and your loved ones) to the irresistible taste of homemade apple pie, now made easier than ever before?
