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Air Fryer Blooming Apples

This air fryer blooming apple recipe is the perfect healthy fall dessert or cozy weeknight treat.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Dessert
Keyword: refined sugar free
Servings: 2 apples

Ingredients

  • 2 large crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • 1.5 tbsp grass-fed butter or coconut oil melted
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 2 tbsp finely chopped nuts pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: Coconut cream or dairy-free vanilla ice cream for serving

Optional Caramel Drizzle:

  • 2 scoops collagen peptides
  • 1 tbsp peanut butter room temperature so it is runny
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp almond milk optional, to thin as needed

Instructions

Prep the Apples

  • Wash and core the apples, leaving about ½ inch at the base intact.
  • Cut two concentric circles through the apple (again, don’t cut through the bottom).
  • Flip the apple upside down and slice vertically around the core.
  • Flip back over and gently pull the slices outward to create that signature “bloom” look. (Don’t break the base.)

Make the Maple-Cinnamon Filling

  • In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
  • Stir in chopped nuts, if using.

Fill the Apples

  • Use a spoon or pastry brush to coat the apple “petals” with the maple-cinnamon mixture, letting it seep into every crevice.

Air Fry

  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the apples on a piece of foil or parchment in the air fryer basket to catch any drips.
  • Air fry for 15–20 minutes, checking after 12 minutes. The apples should be tender and caramelized. Spoon extra sauce on top halfway through, if desired.

Serve with Optional Caramel

  • In a small bowl, stir together collagen, peanut butter, maple syrup, and almond milk (if needed) for a quick and creamy caramel drizzle.
  • Let apples cool for 5 minutes, then top with whipped coconut cream, dairy-free ice cream, or drizzle with caramel for the ultimate treat