Standing in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples instantly transported me back to my grandmother’s warm, bustling home. That familiar scent inspires today’s delightful treat: Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs. These quick desserts are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, encapsulating gooey, spiced apple goodness inside flaky crescent rolls. Perfect for those busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings, these bombs take minimal prep time—under 10 minutes of active cooking—making them a crowd-pleaser for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. Imagine serving these golden, crispy delights alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream; it’s comfort food with a fun twist! Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this easy recipe? Let’s get started!
Why are Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs irresistible?
Comforting nostalgia: These Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs remind you of grandma’s kitchen with their gooey, spiced apple filling wrapped in flaky pastry.
Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of active cooking, you can whip up a delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: These mini treats are sure to impress both family and friends, making them a hit at gatherings.
Versatility: Feel free to substitute the apple pie filling with your favorite fruit, such as peach or cherry, for a fresh twist. For extra indulgence, serve with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, like in our Apple Crumble Cheesecake recipe!
Beginner-friendly: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dessert is easy to assemble and cook in an air fryer.
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bomb Ingredients
• Dive into these delightful Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs with simple pantry staples!
For the Bombs
- Crescent Roll Dough – Provides a flaky pastry that requires no rolling; perfect for convenience.
- Apple Pie Filling – The heart of these bombs; opt for finely chopped apples in a sweet syrup for even cooking.
- Unsalted Butter – Riches up the flavor and helps the cinnamon-sugar coating stick; margarine can be a substitute.
For the Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the outside with a delicious crunch; no substitutions are needed.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth into each bomb; feel free to swap with pumpkin pie spice for a festive twist.
Optional Toppings
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Adds a creamy contrast that perfectly balances the warm, spiced flavors.
- Whipped Cream – A delightful light topping that enhances the overall experience of the bombs.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Open the crescent roll dough and gently separate it into eight triangles. Lay them out on a clean surface, ensuring they don’t touch, as you’ll be filling each triangle with delicious apple pie filling. Prepping the dough is crucial, so make sure your work area is tidy and ready for assembly.
Step 2: Fill Each Bomb
Spoon approximately one tablespoon of apple pie filling into the center of each dough triangle. Ensure the filling is evenly spread while keeping it centered to avoid spills. As you fill each triangle, you’ll start to see the promise of those gooey delights coming to life—just wait until they’re cooked!
Step 3: Seal the Edges
Fold the dough over the filling and firmly pinch the edges to seal each bomb securely. It’s important that the seams are tight to prevent any leaks during the cooking process. If needed, dab the edges with a little water to help them stick together, creating an airtight closure for the Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking and crispy results. Allow it to heat for about 5 minutes while you prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step is vital as it will contribute to the perfectly golden and crispy texture of the pie bombs once they’re air-fried.
Step 5: Mix the Coating
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and stir until well blended. This fragrant mixture will give your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs that delightful exterior crunch and warm spice. Make sure it’s mixed thoroughly so that every bomb gets an even coating of sweetness.
Step 6: Brush with Butter
Melt some unsalted butter and use a brush to apply a rich layer over each dough ball. This step not only adds flavor but also helps the cinnamon-sugar adhere perfectly when you roll them. Each Air Fryer Apple Pie Bomb will benefit from that buttery goodness—making them extra irresistible.
Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar
Carefully roll each butter-brushed dough ball into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated. You want to see that lovely sugary sparkle on each bomb, which will caramelize during cooking. This adds a delightful crunch on the outside, enhancing the overall texture of your delicious treats.
Step 8: Arrange in Air Fryer
Place the coated dough balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This allows for even air circulation and perfect cooking. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches to ensure maximum crispness for all your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs.
Step 9: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the pie bombs in the air fryer for 7-9 minutes, checking at the 7-minute mark for doneness. They should emerge golden brown and puffed up, signifying that they are ready to enjoy. Keep an eye on them during this stage as each air fryer can vary in cooking performance.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs from the basket and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help maintain their crispiness while preventing burning. Serve them warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Room Temperature: Store leftover Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs in an airtight container for up to 6 hours to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the bombs in an airtight container for up to 48 hours. Reheat before serving to enjoy them warm again.
Freezer: Freeze uncoated apple pie bombs by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore the crispness, reheat frozen bombs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs!
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs Variations
Transform your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs with these fun twists that add more flavor and excitement!
Fruit Swap: Use peach, cherry, or blueberry pie filling for an exciting flavor variation that keeps things fresh and delightful. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness and tartness, adding a fun twist to your bombs.
Gluten-Free: Replace crescent roll dough with gluten-free puff pastry to create a delicious option that everyone can enjoy. Just make sure to handle the gluten-free dough with care to maintain the flaky texture.
Add Nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for a satisfying crunch. This unexpected texture can elevate your pie bombs to a new level of deliciousness.
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. This swap ensures everyone can enjoy the warm flavors without compromising on taste.
Spiced Twist: Enhance the filling with extra spices like nutmeg or allspice for a subtle depth of flavor. These spices create a comforting aroma that will fill your home, reminiscent of holiday baking.
Bourbon-Infused: Add a splash of bourbon to the apple filling for an adult twist that brings warmth and a little sophistication. This variation adds an unexpected kick and wonderful depth of flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the warm bombs after cooking for a decadent dessert experience. The combination of chocolate and spiced apples is heavenly—perfect for those chic gatherings.
Savory Option: Try substituting the apple pie filling with savory options like cheese and caramelized onions for a delightful appetizer. These mini bombs can be perfect for entertaining guests or adding variety to your spread.
Looking to sweeten your dessert table? Don’t forget to serve these Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs alongside a scoop of ice cream or some whipped cream, perhaps even inspired by our Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake for a delightful pairing!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious desserts with minimal last-minute work! You can prepare the bombs and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply assemble them as directed, seal tightly, and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just brush them with butter and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before air frying. For even more flexibility, consider freezing uncoated bombs for up to 3 months—this retains their freshness and texture. When it’s time to indulge, no need to thaw; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes for perfectly golden treats!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Pairing these delightful treats with complementary sides and drinks can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness perfectly balances the warm, gooey apple filling, creating a mouthwatering contrast. This classic pairing is a timeless favorite for good reason!
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the bombs adds a luxurious sweetness that harmonizes wonderfully with the cinnamon-spiced apples. It’s an indulgent twist that everyone will adore.
- Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream enhances the desserts’ sweetness without overpowering the flavors, providing a fluffy texture that feels celebratory.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits like raspberries and strawberries add a refreshing note, cutting through the sweetness and providing a delightful crunch. The colors also brighten up your table!
- Hot Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew complements the spices in each bomb, inviting a cozy feel that makes the dessert even more enjoyable.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch, combining two enchanting flavors that make for a truly delightful dessert moment.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of this cozy beverage echoes the apple flavors in the bombs, creating a complete autumn-inspired experience that’s perfect for gatherings.
- Sugary Cinnamon Dusting: Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar over the tops just before serving for that extra flavor boost—small details can elevate your dessert experience significantly!
- Pecan Pie Dip: Serve a scoop of pecan pie dip alongside the bombs for a unique flavor pairing that adds richness and variety to your dessert spread.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Pinch Tightly: Ensure that all edges of the dough are tightly sealed to prevent filling from leaking during cooking. A little water can help them stick better.
Watch the Time: Air fryer cooking times can vary, so check your bombs at 7 minutes. Look for a golden brown color to know they’re done.
Keep Them Spaced: Place the bombs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate evenly for crispiness.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap out the apple pie filling for other fruits like cherry or peach. Each variation will bring a fresh twist to your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs.
Store Carefully: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delightful crispy texture for future enjoyment.
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe apples for filling?
Choosing ripe apples is key to a delicious filling! Look for firm apples with vibrant color and no bruises or dark spots. I recommend using sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a delightful contrast to the cinnamon.
What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
To keep your Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 hours. If you plan to enjoy them later, refrigerate them for up to 48 hours. Just remember to reheat them before serving to bring back that crispy texture!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs?
Absolutely! For future enjoyment, freeze the uncoated bombs by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just air fry them straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
What should I do if the dough starts leaking during cooking?
If you notice leaking, it usually means the seams weren’t tightly pinched. Next time, be sure to seal each edge well, and you can dab a bit of water on the edges to help them stick. If it happens, simply scoop the filling back in and continue cooking.
Are Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs suitable for people with allergies?
It’s important to customize the recipe based on dietary needs. If allergies to gluten or dairy are a concern, consider using gluten-free crescent rolls and a dairy-free butter substitute. Always check the ingredient labels for potential allergens.
What other variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! You can switch the apple filling with other fruits like berry mixes or even chocolate for a decadent treat. Adding spices like nutmeg or incorporating different toppings can also provide exciting flavor shifts—experiment to find your perfect combo!
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs: Quick, Delicious Comfort Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Open the crescent roll dough and gently separate it into eight triangles. Lay them out on a clean surface.
- Spoon approximately one tablespoon of apple pie filling into the center of each dough triangle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and firmly pinch the edges to seal each bomb securely.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and stir until well blended.
- Melt some unsalted butter and use a brush to apply a layer over each dough ball.
- Carefully roll each butter-brushed dough ball into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the coated dough balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook the pie bombs in the air fryer for 7-9 minutes, checking at the 7-minute mark.
- Once cooked, remove the Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs from the basket and let them cool.