5-Minute Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups (Irresistible!)

You know those days when you’re craving something sweet, but the thought of turning on the oven feels like way too much effort? That’s when I reach for my air fryer – my secret weapon for whipping up these irresistible apple crumble cups in under 20 minutes! I stumbled upon this genius method after one too many midnight snack emergencies (we’ve all been there, right?), and now it’s my go-to when I need a warm, cinnamon-spiced treat without the hassle. The air fryer crisps up that golden oat topping perfectly while keeping the apples tender and bubbling underneath. Trust me, once you try these little cups of happiness, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Oh my gosh, where do I even start? These little apple crumble cups are absolute game-changers, and here’s why:

• Lightning fast – From craving to eating in less time than it takes to watch your favorite sitcom episode
• No messy kitchen – Just two bowls and the air fryer basket to clean (hallelujah!)
• Portion perfection – Individual cups mean no fighting over who got the biggest piece
• That crispy topping – The air fryer works magic on the oat crumble – golden, crunchy perfection every time
• Warm spiced apples – Like autumn in a cup, no matter what season it is outside

Honestly, the hardest part is waiting those few minutes for them to cool before digging in!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Okay, let’s raid your pantry – I bet you’ve got most of this already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 medium apples (peeled and diced – Granny Smith are my favorite for that perfect tartness)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to keep those apples from browning)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (divided – we’ll use some for the apples, some for the crumble)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (because what’s apple crumble without it?)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (the heart of our crunchy topping)
• 1/4 cup flour (all-purpose works great)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted – the glue holding our crumble together)
• 1/4 tsp salt (trust me, it makes all the flavors pop)

See? Simple stuff that comes together magically!

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How to Make Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Alright, let’s get cooking! I promise this is easier than remembering your WiFi password. Here’s exactly how I make these little cups of joy:

First things first – pop your air fryer basket in and preheat to 350°F (175°C). This takes about 3 minutes in mine, just enough time to prep everything else.

While that’s warming up, toss your diced apples with lemon juice (this keeps them looking fresh!), 2 tablespoons of that brown sugar, and all the cinnamon in one bowl. Get those apples nice and coated – I use my hands because why dirty another spoon?

In another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, remaining brown sugar, melted butter (careful, it’s hot!), and salt. Mash it together with a fork until it looks like wet sand – you’ll know it’s right when you can squeeze a handful and it mostly holds together.

Now the fun part! Divide your apple mixture evenly between 4 ramekins or oven-safe cups (mine are those little 6-ounce ones). Top each with a generous heap of your crumbly oat mixture – don’t be shy!

Slide them into your preheated air fryer basket (they’ll probably fit snugly), and let them work their magic for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen smells like heaven and the topping is golden brown.

Here’s the hardest part – let them cool for 5 minutes before diving in. I know, I know, but burnt tongues are no fun! The wait makes that first bite of warm, cinnamon-spiced apples with crispy topping even more amazing.

Love apple desserts with a creative twist? Try our Apple Pie Smoothie Bowl Recipe — it’s a refreshing way to enjoy those same comforting flavors in a healthy breakfast bowl.

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• Air fryer (of course!)
• 4 ramekins or oven-safe cups
• 2 mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Box grater (for the apples)

That’s it – no fancy gadgets required!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Want to take your apple crumble cups to the next level? Here are my foolproof tips:

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith – they hold their shape and give that perfect tart-sweet balance.
• Adjust the sugar to taste – if your apples are super sweet, you can cut back a bit.
• Don’t skip the vanilla ice cream on top – it’s the ultimate finishing touch!
• Let them cool just enough so you don’t burn your tongue but still enjoy that warm, gooey goodness.

Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference!

Variations for Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Oh, the possibilities! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these fun twists:

• Nutty crunch – Toss chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping
• Spice it up – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon
• Pear instead – Swap apples for ripe pears when you want something different
• Berry bonus – Mix in a handful of fresh or frozen berries with the apples
• Oat-free option – Use crushed graham crackers or almond flour for the topping

See? Endless ways to make these little cups your own!

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Now for the best part – how to eat these beauties! My absolute favorite way is with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm crumble topping (that hot-cold combo is everything). But don’t stop there! Try them with:

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream
• A drizzle of caramel or butterscotch sauce (go ahead, be extra!)
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch
• A dusting of powdered sugar for simple elegance

Honestly, they’re amazing even plain – but why deny yourself the full dessert experience?

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These little cups keep surprisingly well! Just cover them tightly and pop in the fridge for up to 3 days. When that craving hits again, reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes – they’ll come out nearly as good as fresh! Pro tip: Add a tiny pat of butter on top before reheating for extra crispiness.

Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Apple Crumble Cups

Nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements. While I aim for accuracy, always consider this information as an estimate rather than an exact calculation. For more detailed information on nutritional aspects of cooking, you can refer to resources like the National Nutrition Portal.

For more easy air fryer desserts and seasonal favorites, follow us on Pinterest for endless inspiration and quick recipe ideas!

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Share Your Thoughts

Did you make these apple crumble cups? I’d love to hear how they turned out! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media – happy baking!