Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce is such a fun and tasty treat! The apples come out perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness. Paired with a light, fluffy caramel whipped cream, it feels like a little dessert that’s healthy enough to enjoy anytime.
I love making this when I want something quick but special. Air frying the apple wedges means they cook fast without soaking in oil, so they stay fresh and light. The caramel whipped cream is my favorite twist because it adds just enough sweetness and creaminess without being too heavy. I always find myself sneaking extra dips!
This treat is great for bringing friends or family together, especially on cool nights or after a busy day. I like serving the apple wedges warm and letting everyone dunk them into that creamy caramel sauce. It’s such a simple but cozy way to enjoy apples that feels a little extra, and it never fails to get smiles all around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Fuji and Honeycrisp are great because they’re sweet and hold their shape when cooked. Granny Smiths work too but will be tangier. Choose firm apples for crisp wedges.
Butter or Coconut Oil: Butter adds rich flavor, while coconut oil is a great dairy-free option. Lightly coating the apples helps the spices stick and promotes browning.
Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): Cinnamon is classic with apples and gives warmth. Nutmeg is optional but adds a nice depth. You can substitute pumpkin pie spice if you like a spicier mix.
Caramel Whipped Cream: Using heavy cream makes the dip light and fluffy. If you want, you can swap caramel sauce with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness.
How Can You Get Crispy Apple Wedges in the Air Fryer?
To get apple wedges that are crispy on the outside and tender inside, follow these tips:
- Slice apples evenly, about ½-inch thick, so they cook uniformly.
- Coat apples lightly with melted butter and sugar-spice mix for caramelization.
- Arrange wedges in a single layer, avoiding overlap to allow hot air to circulate.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to brown wedges evenly.
- If the wedges aren’t crisp enough, add 2-3 minutes but watch closely so they don’t burn.
Don’t overcrowd the basket—it’s tempting to fit all at once, but smaller batches crisp better!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – this is the star for getting crispy apple wedges quickly without extra oil.
- Mixing bowl – for tossing the apple slices in butter and spices easily.
- Whisk or hand mixer – to whip the heavy cream into fluffy whipped cream smoothly.
- Small serving bowl – perfect for holding and serving the caramel whipped cream dip.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate spice and sugar measurements, so the flavor is just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the spice mix for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Swap caramel sauce with melted chocolate for a rich, decadent dipping option.
- Add chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Use pear wedges instead of apples for a softer, subtly sweet variation.
How to Make Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Wedges:
- 2 large apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), sliced into wedges
- 1 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
For the Caramel Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 5 minutes mixing and prepping the apples and whipped cream, then about 10-12 minutes cooking the wedges in the air fryer. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty snack or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Wedges:
First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss the apple wedges in this mixture so they’re evenly coated with the sweet spice blend.
2. Cook the Apples in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated apple wedges in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. You might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps them crisp up nicely. Air fry the wedges for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. They should look golden and tender when done.
3. Make the Caramel Whipped Cream and Serve:
While the apples cook, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the caramel sauce, keeping the cream light and fluffy. Serve the warm apple wedges dusted with powdered sugar alongside a scoop of the caramel whipped cream. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the cream if you like. Now, just dip, enjoy, and savor this cozy fruit treat!
Can I Use Frozen Apple Wedges for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh apples for crispness. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove extra moisture before coating and air frying.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Wedges?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer or oven to restore crispness before serving.
Can I Make the Caramel Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Yes! Whip the cream and fold in caramel a few hours before serving and keep it chilled. Give it a quick whisk before serving if it thickens too much.
What Are Good Substitutions for the Caramel Sauce?
Maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or honey work well as alternatives for caramel, offering different but delicious flavor twists with the apples.