Small Batch Air Fryer Apple Crumble

This air fryer apple crumble comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Soft, tender apples sit under a crisp, golden crumble topping, conveniently all cooked right in the air fryer. It is a small-batch recipe that is perfect for small households. Give this small batch air fryer apple crumble a try!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble

• Easy: This apple crumble comes together with simple ingredients
• Small-batch dessert: It is the perfect size when you want something sweet for small households.
• Warm and cozy: Cinnamon-coated apples make this an easy comfort dessert that gives delicious fall flavors

Origin

Apple crumble is a British dessert that became popular during World War II because ingredients like flour and butter were rationed. It served as a simpler alternative to traditional apple pie. Nowadays, it remains a popular dessert, especially during the fall season.

Ingredients

Apple Filling

• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
  • The main star in this recipe
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • Adds sweetness and gives it a caramel-like flavor
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Adds a cozy warmth
• Lemon juice
  • Brightens the apple filling

Crumble Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • The base of the crumble
• ¼ cup oats
  • Adds more texture
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • Sweetens the crumble
• 3 tbsp cold butter, cubed
  • Creates a buttery crumble
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Adds warm spices to the crumble

Click on the images for the direct link to the ingredients/tools I used:

Instructions

Dice the apples into small, even pieces and add them to an air-fryer-safe baking dish or container.

Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use your hands to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.

Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple filling.

Air fry at 350°F for 15–18 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

View this post on Instagram

Apple Crumble Tips

• Use firm apples: Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work well because they hold their shape while cooking.
• Cut apples evenly: Dice the apples into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
• Don’t overmix the crumble: Mix the butter into the dry ingredients just until crumbly.
• Use cold butter: Cold butter gives the crumble a better texture and helps prevent it from becoming too dense. Check early: Air fryers vary, so start checking around 15 minutes. The crumble should be golden brown and the apples tender.

Small Batch Air Fryer Apple Crumble Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftover apple crumble in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through.

Microwave: Microwave for 30–60 seconds.

Freezer: Store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What apples are best for apple crumble?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well

Can I make apple crumble in the oven?

Yes! Bake it at 350°F for about 25–30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble topping is golden brown.

Common Mistakes

Using overly soft apples: Very soft or overripe apples can turn mushy while cooking.

Cutting the apples unevenly: Large pieces may stay firm while smaller pieces become too soft. Try to dice the apples into similar-sized pieces.

Using warm butter: Cold butter helps create a crumbly, crisp topping.

Overmixing the crumble: Mix just until the butter is incorporated and the mixture becomes crumbly. Overmixing can result in a less textured topping.

Not checking the crumble: Air fryers vary in temperature and cooking time, so keep an eye on the topping toward the end to prevent it from burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Apples → Pears or peaches
Brown sugar → Granulated sugar
Cinnamon → Pumpkin pie spice
Oats → Extra all-purpose flour

What to Serve With Apple Crumble

Vanilla ice cream → The classic pairing since it contrast so well with warm apples.

Whipped cream → Light and creamy without overpowering the apples.

Caramel sauce → Adds a rich, buttery sweetness

Greek yogurt → The slight tang balances the sweetness of the crumble.

Vanilla yogurt → A lighter, creamy alternative to ice cream.

Chopped pecans or walnuts → Adds extra crunch and nuttiness.

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we may receive compensation from purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I can earn from qualifying purchases.

If you enjoyed this small batch air fryer apple crumble recipe, you might also like my blooming apple rose tea or my gut friendly stewed apples.

Gut Friendly Stewed Apples