3-ingredient air fryer apple crisp
This air fryer apple crisp, inspired by a skillet apple crisp I created for Simply Recipes, is the first thing I make when I want an easy, single-serve fall dessert. It’s just the right amount of sweet, and, considering there’s only three of them, I always have the ingredients on hand.
instant oatmeal is the secret to shortcut apple crisp
When combined with cold butter, a packet of instant oatmeal acts just like a classic apple crisp topping. And because it has the sweetener and spices built right in, the whole thing comes together that much faster.
You can use any type brand or flavor of instant oatmeal packet you like. I’m partial to Better Oats’ Maple & Brown Sugar because of its short ingredient list, but I also know people love Kodiak Cakes because of the higher protein content!
serving your apple crisp
I always top my air fryer apple crisp with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra protein, a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and just a bit of cinnamon. (Honestly, after writing that, I’m realizing this would make a great fall breakfast, too).
If you prefer to go in the dessert direction, vanilla ice cream would be right at home.
see it in action…
3-ingredient air fryer apple crisp
- 1 medium apple (I like Pink Lady, Gala, or Fuji)
- 1 flavored instant oatmeal packet, such as Maple & Brown Sugar (I like Better Oats because of its short ingredient list)
- 1 tablespoon cold butter (either unsalted or salted is fine)
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Slice the apple in half crosswise. Scoop out the seeds + a little extra to create a small well (you can snack on the scraps). Cook, cut side down on parchment paper (or an air fryer liner), until beginning to wrinkle and soften, about 8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine the oatmeal packet with the butter (I cut mine into 4 pieces to make things easier) and squeeze together until large, moist crumbs form. Some oatmeal packets are larger than others — add more butter if your mix is looking dry!
- Flip the apple halves and fill with the topping. Return to the air fryer until the apple is tender and the topping is crisp, 12 to 14 minutes (cook time will vary depending on the size of your apple).
- Serve as-is, with ice cream, or my personal favorite: plain Greek yogurt, honey, flaky salt, and cinnamon.
I need to go to market for apples n packet oatmeal. WinCo here I come. Oh yes ice cream too.
Yes! Enjoy!!