Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are little pockets of warm, gooey apple filling wrapped in a crispy outside, all made quickly in the air fryer. They have that sweet, cinnamony apple pie flavor you love, but in a fun, bite-sized form that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
I love making these when I want a sweet treat without fussing over a whole pie. The air fryer cooks them up so quickly, and I always feel a bit like I’m unwrapping a surprise with each bite. Plus, they’re easy to customize—sometimes I add a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of caramel to make them extra special.
My favorite way to enjoy these apple pie bombs is with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or just as they are when they’re fresh and warm. They’re great for gatherings, too, because everyone can grab one and enjoy that cozy apple pie feeling without waiting for slices to be cut. These little bombs bring a lot of smiles with very little effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are my go-to because they hold up well and give a good balance of tart and sweet. If you can’t find these, Fuji or Gala apples work nicely, too.
Dough: Crescent roll dough is quick and convenient. You can also use puff pastry for a flakier texture. For a gluten-free option, try a store-bought gluten-free pie dough or tortilla wraps.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring out classic apple pie flavors. Feel free to add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for more warmth if you like.
Butter & Sugar Coating: Brushing melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick and gives a golden finish. If dairy-free, use a light spray of oil instead.
How Do You Seal the Apple Pie Bombs Without Leaking?
Sealing the dough tightly prevents filling from oozing out during cooking. Here’s how you can get a good seal every time:
- Place enough filling in the center but don’t overstuff—the dough needs room to close well.
- Use your fingers to pinch the edges firmly together, folding over twice if needed.
- Press the seams gently but thoroughly so no gaps remain.
- If using crescent dough, overlap edges slightly before pinching for a stronger seal.
- Chill the assembled bombs in the fridge for 10 minutes before air frying to help them keep their shape.
These tips help keep your apple pie bombs intact and ready to enjoy without messy leaks!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love it because it cooks the bombs evenly and gets them crispy without excess oil.
- Small saucepan – perfect for cooking and thickening the apple filling on the stove.
- Mixing bowls – handy for preparing the filling and coating mixture.
- Pastry cutter or knife – for cutting dough into squares or triangles.
- Pastry brush – to brush melted butter over the bombs for a golden finish.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep everything accurate, especially for sugar and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use pecans or walnuts in the filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Add a splash of caramel sauce inside the filling for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle a pinch of ginger or allspice for a more warming spice blend.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate after baking for a decorative touch.
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch
For the Dough and Coating:
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the filling and assemble the bombs, plus 10 minutes cooking time in the air fryer. Total time is roughly 25 minutes, perfect for a quick and delicious dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Apple Filling:
Put the chopped apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook on medium heat, stirring often, until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Take it off the heat and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Dough:
If you’re using crescent roll dough, unroll it and separate into triangles. If you choose puff pastry, cut it into 3×3 inch squares.
3. Assemble the Pie Bombs:
Put a small spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each piece of dough. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges tightly so the filling is sealed inside. Make sure there are no holes.
4. Preheat and Cook in the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. Brush each bomb lightly with melted butter. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer with some space between them. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until they’re puffed and a golden brown color.
5. Add the Sweet Coating:
While the bombs cook, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. When the bombs are done, roll each one in the sugar-cinnamon mixture right away so it sticks well thanks to the butter.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy the apple pie bombs warm. You can dust them with powdered sugar or serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a lovely touch.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for the Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking the filling. This helps avoid soggy dough and keeps the bombs from leaking.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the apple pie bombs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time if chilling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple pie bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I Substitute Crescent Roll Dough?
Yes, puff pastry works great for a flakier texture. You can also try biscuit dough for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the dough thickness.
